Friends of Bear’s Mill acquires scenic historic property

Bear's Mill has been purchased by The Friends of Bear's Mill, Inc. a non-profit organization that has operated the historic site since 1999. The purchase of the Mill and surrounding property was made possible through funding from a Clean Ohio Fund grant administered by the Ohio Public Works Commission. According to Friends of Bear's Mill Board member Tom Menke, this highly competitive grant requires well-documented environmental attributes of the prospective properties. “When I looked through the criteria, it became obvious that Bear's Mill would do well, as the site simply has everything that the State of Ohio is looking for,” Mr. Menke stated.

Additional funds were provided by Darke County Soil and Water District in return for a conservation easement guaranteeing that the property would remain undeveloped and environmentally preserved. Further support was provided by previous Mill owners Terry and Julie Clark. Board officials also voiced their appreciation for the work done by State Representative Jim Buchy, saying that his support was essential to renewed funding for the Clean Ohio Fund.

Ownership and water rights for the property were granted by President James Monroe in 1824 to Major George Adams, the namesake for the township where Bear's Mill is located. Bear's Mill, built in 1849 by Gabriel Baer, is one of the few water-powered mills still operating in Ohio and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975. Terry and Julie Clark acquired the Mill and surrounding acreage in 1978, and have maintained the historical structure and diverse ecological setting while creating a popular tourist destination attracting visitors from around the state and beyond.

The Clarks, understanding the difficulties and expense of managing such a unique property rich in history and natural resources reached out to the community for help, leading to the formation of The Friends of Bear’s Mill nonprofit organization in 1999. The organization’s mission has always been to provide a rich cultural experience and community-oriented events including educational tours, demonstrations and nature walks while preserving the Mill's historical significance and natural beauty.

During the fourteen years of its existence, the organization has fulfilled that mission and looked forward to the eventual purchase of the site so that it could forever be open for public use and enjoyment; securing the Clean Ohio Fund grant provided realization of this long-held goal. The stringent grant criteria required that the land area must offer habitat protection, preserve water quality, wetlands, and stream side forests. Aesthetically pleasing and ecologically informed design must be incorporated into the project, which should also provide enhanced educational opportunities and multiple recreational, economic and aesthetic preservation benefits.

The Friends of Bear’s Mill officials want the public to understand that their purchase of the property changes very little about the current operations of the Mill and property. “This purchase by our non-profit organization simply means that the property is now in ownership and under the protection of this nonprofit organization with certain protections dictated by State and local organizations. Contributions are just as necessary as ever to sustain this local cultural treasure,” explained Mr. Menke. “Support of the Mill Store also will continue to provide needed funds to keep the millstones turning as well. We encourage people to schedule tours, explore the ‘Art at the Mill’ exhibits, hike our trails, and enjoy the natural beauty of our site,” Mr. Menke concluded.

Bear's Mill is located at 6450 Arcanum-Bear's Mill Road about 5 miles east of Greenville. For more information, contact Bear's Mill at 937-548-5112 or www.bearsmill.com.