War Eagle Mill & Bridge - Northwest Arkansas

War Eagle Mill & Bridge

One of the most charming scenes in the Ozarks of Northwest Arkansas is the view of the War Eagle Mill and Bridge from across the historic mill pond.

The current structure is the latest version of a mill that has stood on the banks of War Eagle Creek (sometimes called the War Eagle River) since the 1830s. Originally built by Sylvanus Blackburn, the mill was a thriving enterprise for two decades before the Civil War.

War Eagle Mill

The first structure was washed away by a flood in 1848, but was quickly replaced. When the Civil War swept with brutal force across the Ozarks, the War Eagle Mill was used to grind grain for both the Union and Confederate armies (at different times, of course!). After the Battle of Pea Ridge, a portion of General Earl Van Dorn's shattered Southern army passed by the mill during their retreat from the battlefield.

The second mill, like most such structures in the region, did not survive the war but was burned before the end of the conflict. The brutual economic conditions of the years after the Civil War prevented the rebuilding of War Eagle Mill until 1873. After it returned to operation, however, the mill served the people of the area for many decades to come.

The present structure, completed in 1973, is the fourth operating mill to stand on the site and is a recreation of previous structures. It is open to the public and is the focal point of major art & craft shows each fall and spring. It is also one of the most picturesque locations in Northwest Arkansas.

To learn more about War Eagle Mill, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/wareagle.

Spring Travel Part Eight: War Eagle Mill, Arkansas

Continuing with our special spring series on some of my favorite destinations in the South, this is the beautiful War Eagle Mill in Northwest Arkansas.

A modern reconstruction of a historic water-powered gristmill, the War Eagle Mill is one of the most scenic spots in the Ozarks. The historic old iron frame bridge that leads across the river to the mill still has its wooden flooring intact.

The mill itself is open to the public daily throughout most of the year and on weekends during January and February. It includes exhibits on the history of the site, a chance to watch actual milling in process, arts, crafts and a restaurant on the third floor.

War Eagle Mill is also famous for its annual Arts and Crafts Fairs. The Spring fair was held this past weekend.

To learn more about War Eagle Mill, please visit: www.exploresouthernhistory.com/ARWarEagle.html