A historic re-creation of an 1880's water-powered grist mill. It is in the opening scenes of the classic movie "Gone With The Wind." It features sculptures
Located at Fairway Avenue and Lakeshore Drive, The Old Mill is listed on the National Register of Historical Places and is best known for its appearance in the opening scenes of the film classic, Gone With the Wind.
HISTORY
In 1931, Justin Matthews, developer of the Lakewood neighborhood of North Little Rock, contracted for the construction of a replica of an old, water-powered grist mill dedicated to the memory of Arkansas's pioneers. Neither the stone mill building, nor the general layout is a reproduction of any particular mill, but is a familiar design of early Arkansas, designed to fit the contour of a rough area.
The Mill, completed in 1933, is intended to appear abandoned - absent of doors and windows due to thieves or decay - just as old mills that were in service in the early 1800s had become by the 1930s. The image is that the old gristmill and driving equipment have fallen away or been disconnected from the water wheel; and the water gate on the flume above, although closed, is leaking enough water to turn the old wheel, which is idling away through the years.
Rodriguez, a sculptor and artist, was responsible for all the details of each piece of concrete work made to represent wood, iron or stone, as well as the designing of the foot bridges and rustic seats. Rodriguez's secret techniques were so detailed and exacting that you can identify the species of trees in most of his work. Rodriguez worked without any written plans, but there are unwritten stories that describe how Rodriguez envisioned many of his works. "A black locust tree grew in the soft earth on the bank of the little stream. When it reached a certain height it was blown down, but continued to live. A woodsman who wanted to use the trunk of the tree as a footbridge cut off the limbs and..."
WEDDINGS
The Old Mill has seen countless weddings in the 70 years since its construction. Did you get married at The Old Mill? Are you planning a wedding? Or do you just love good old-fashioned love stories?
To begin planning your wedding at The Old Mill, call the North Little Rock Parks and Recreation Department: (501) 791-8537.
Administrative Fee: $25
Because it is a public park and in a residential area, the Old Mill can only accommodate small ceremonies for couples to exchange vows. The ceremony must be a maximum of 20 minutes to exchange vows, with a maximum of 20 guests (bride, groom, officiant, etc. included). They would appreciate no music, as well, since it may disrupt other park visitors and area residents.
For help with lodging, day activities and reception locations for your wedding in North Little Rock, call the North Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau: (501)758-1424. For tours for groups of 10 or more, call the CVB.
