Richard McGee presented an interesting program based on his book "Mills and Springs of the Ozarks" at the Shannon County Museum Oct. 22. The book describes many mills and springs, both in Missouri and Arkansas, including those in Shannon County. McGee is from West Plains and has had a long-time interest in the mills of the area, many of which were powered by springs and creeks.
About 30 people attended the presentation and learned from it. The first mills were built prior to Missouri becoming a state, and the use of mills continued into the early 1900s. The Ozarks was a good location for water powered mills because the streams have enough gradient to turn a wheel to generate the power.
The mills served not only as a means of processing wheat and corn but were also social hubs where people visited and learned the latest news.
Several things caused the mills to cease operations. In general, the Ozarks area was not suited to producing big enough crops to make large scale operations feasible. Also, until the early 1900s, the roads were not good and long distance hauling with wagons was not practical. Then electricity became more available, and it was more efficient than relying on waterpower. Transportation improved so store-bought products from afar could be easily obtained.
We are lucky to have two of the few mills still standing and with original equipment at Alley and Summersville. It was an interesting presentation, as confirmed by the fact that McGee sold out of the books he brought. The books will soon be available for sale at the Shannon County Museum.
Thanks to Renee Rowden for enhancing the program by providing hot apple cider and delicious cookies, served on a Hoosier Cabinet she recently donated to the museum.
