War Eagle Mill in Rogers, AR

I’ve heard the term “grist mill” growing up but had no idea what one was. I want to say there was a brand of breakfast cereal I used to eat called “Grist Mills” that sounded like something fibrous and decidedly healthy. Today I learned that I wasn’t too far off in my speculation.

I first heard of War Eagle Mill a few weeks back while traveling to Eureka Springs, Arkansas. There were signs along the Highway 303 pointing to War Eagle Mill as if were not your average “run of the mill”….well, you get the idea. I researched wareaglemill.com and discovered that it was not only a mill but a tourist destination.

War Eagle Mill located in Benton County which bordering WA and Madison Counties. War Eagle Mill is not just a historic landmark but features an actual functioning grist mill and is reportedly the only working mill in Arkansas today. This one lane steel bridge built in 1907 carries traffic across War Eagle Creek into this sprawling expanse of wide open spaces perfect for spending a leisurely afternoon. It was listed on the National Registry of Historic places back in November of 1985 and attracts many visitors from all across the country. If you’re coming from Hwy 412 to 303 the drive is gentle and easy. There is no fee to enter, and no itineraries were needed as our visit was self guided.

The term “Grist Mill” can refer to both the grinding mechanism and the building that holds it. “Grist” refers to grain that has been separated from its chaff in preparation for grinding. A grist mill grinds whole grain into flour and “meals”. Historically, grist mills were gathering places in communities and stoneground flours and grains were a staple in every household. War Eagle Mill is the last working grist mill in Arkansas and is believed to be the last undershot mill in the country. An undershot water wheel is powered by the water running under the wheel (not over). These types of mills are documented as far back as the first century BC. Overshot mills are more common, with the water pouring over the top of the wheel. There are few undershot mills left because in order to function, they must be built very close to the water level, in the bed of the river. Most of them have been washed away over the years. A unique feature of the water mill occurs when the water enters the paddles at the bottom of the wheel and flows in a northerly direction. This is an example of an undershot water wheel powered by the water running under the wheel-not over.

The history of War Eagle Mill can be found at their website but a few facts I found interesting is that War Eagle Mill was built in 1832, four years before Arkansas became a state. The mill was burned down three times; once by a flood in 1848,  a second time by Confederate soldiers, third time was from unknown causes.

The red main building has 3 stories. The first floor showcases the mill mechanism and the products sourced from the farm including flours, bread mixes, soup mixes, fruit spreads, syrups, many which are organic and non GMO. After walking up a flight of stairs I found the second floor to feature a more traditional gift shop with local cookbooks, candles, lotions, potholders cooking supplies and an assortment of other items like t-shirts and hats. Most of the items sold include something either about the mill or Arkansas ensuring just about anything you’d purchase will remind you of your visit to War Eagle Mill. Finally the 3rd story features their restaurant which is open 9-4 most days serving breakfast from 9-11 and lunch from 11-4.

I can’t imagine a more dreamy spot to pack a lunch, swim and perhaps float on an innertube in the river. Of course we visited on the 4th of July when the temperature was approaching triple digits. I couldn’t help but longingly gaze at those who were better prepared for their visit clad in swimsuits and water toys. But the beautiful thing is you don’t even have to pack a lunch because the restaurant serves food to go so you could spontaneously make it a day trip or a creative and memorable first date destination. And if you’re an Instagrammer, this is literally the place to snap photos.

 I plan to return in October when the weather is a little cooler for their Fall Craft Show where they invite vendors and live music. I can just imagine the leaves changing color and enjoying this beautiful place once again. There’s lots of history at War Eagle and this would be a great spot for field trips, families or plain ol history buffs.

Traveling back over the bridge we headed toward War Eagle Caverns where there is ample parking leading to their gift store. There you can  purchase tickets for their regularly scheduled guided tour into the caverns, traverse the forest maze, or go gold panning.

In front of the gift shop at War Eagle Caverns near the cave entry.

War Eagle Mill is an inexpensive, naturally beautiful and memorable destination here in Northwest Arkansas. It’s only about an hour from Fayetteville and it’s open every day. Check their website for seasonal events.