The Big Stone Mills

Thirty-seven different water mills operated in Winneshiek county since the first one was established in 1843. Big Stones is one of three remaining mills in the county. Built in 1865, this grist mill was powered by a 48″ Leffel hydraulic turbine. A spar dam contained the mill pond. In the early years, the mill’s principal product was a high quality flour trademarked “Big Stone”. It is in the process of being restored.

Old Stones Water Mill