| The famous Sunrise Pancake Flour
sign once again graces the north side of the
mill. The picture above was taken in February,
2000.
Pitcher's Mill existed in 1830 but may have
originated earlier. In 1848 it was enlarged with a storage
area on the south side. The mill was used to grind grains
from many farms in the area. Some of the milled grain was
used by the suppliers, but one of the mill's prized
products was its Sunshine Pancake Flour. A restored
sign advertising this product currently hangs on the
north side of the building.
Pitcher's Mill ceased operation in 1955. By
that time the water turbine that once powered the mill was
replaced by an electric motor. The water turbine was
sold to the New Hope Mills in New Hope, NY and is still used
by them. The mill sat empty for twenty-five years
and was falling into disrepair. The foundation was crumbling
and the entire building was threatened with collapse
when restoration began in 1993. After five years
of shoring up the structure, repairing the foundation
and sprucing up the upper two levels the building was again
safe to enter.
A combined wine tasting party and mill tour
was held for local people to view the extensive work for
the first time in 1998. The 1998 centennial celebration opened
the mill for public tours. It was also opened to the public
in 1999.
Tom Kotasek is the restoration chairman (and
chief worker) for the mill restoration. Bob Griffin is the
restoration treasurer. Funds to restore the building
have been raised by selling Tee and sweat shirts and other
souvenirs, donations and grants. Public support
is always welcomed as we still have a long way to
go. It is hoped that one day even the machinery
will be functional again.
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