Five reasons this historic mill renovation is one to watch!
Since I drive a bit for work I am able to enjoy so many small town communities and roadside curiosities. When I see something- like this amazing mill in Keil Wisconsin- I can’t help but stop and snap a few pictures!
Upon further investigation I learned that this 1883 flour and feed mill has been undergoing some major renovations. While some reports say it will be for mixed residence use, only time will tell us the true future of this building.
Here’s everything this historic mill has going for it!
#1 The charming location
Situated in the Riverwalk district of Kiel this Mill has what most successful mills had- access to an energy producing body of water. The Iola Mill, as a reminder, still powers part of their establishment today with the river that runs through the foundation from the Iola pond.
#2 The interesting dimension to the structure
While the main mill is a traditional square structure with a hip roof and a cupola, the addition is a long and lower gabled roof clad in aged wood siding. A tall and noble brick chimney also adds one more peak of interest to the property. Together it sparks interesting textures and colors that makes the weather worn mill classic in it’s current state.
#3 When more is more
It would be hard to add to all this visual interest without overdoing it, right? Less is more when you have old rugged masonry, clean brick, horizontal white wash wood and steel roofing…but someone had the brilliant idea to do a chevron wood stained door next to these white factory sconces and the effect is stunning. In this case more was more.
#4 The wraparound porch
I actually grew up going in feed mills with my dad to buy supplies. I can still remember the creak the wood ramps and floorboards would make as you walked up to the front door. It is such a permanent memory that I can tell you I can hear these steps when I look at this picture.
#5 It still looks like an old mill
For now, the rusted metal checker board that identifies this structure as a previous feed mill is still intact and I hope it stays that way. Just as I previously sang the praises of old buildings for revealing billboards and advertisements painted on their buildings- there is no substitute for this authentic time capsule. It has that heartland hint of Americana like an old route 66 sign.
After almost a century of operation, followed by a few decades of neglect- it is always reassuring to see someone take an interest in preserving a cool old building and making it beautiful without detracting from it’s origin story. This is definitely a project worth watching! So far it is off to a phenomenal start and hopefully the momentum continues.
More Historic Mills to visit!
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