Franklin Creek Grist Mill

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We operate the Franklin Creek Grist Mill, as the welcome and education center for the State Natural Area.  Grist Mill visitors can obtain information about the hiking trails and the animals, plants and geology along the trails. They can tour the historic Grist Mill, a reproduction of a mill located on site over 150 years ago, and witness water power in action, view early construction techniques, see how corn was ground, and learn about the importance of the mill in the early life of the community.

The Grist Mill houses educational exhibits as well. As of 2019, our woodland exhibit —“Illinois, More than a Prairie State” - explores the history of woodlands in Illinois, the economic and the environmental importance of trees, animals and plants that depend on the woodland habitat, how trees are portrayed in art, philosophy and poetry, and tree identification. ​

Woodland Exhibit

Our first floor exhibit educates visitors about bison, which can be viewed roaming freely at the neighboring Nachusa Grasslands. Visitors can view, up close, a real ​stuffed bison mother and calf, as well as a bison skeleton. Also featured is the history of bison in America, bison art, and artifacts that show how bison products were used by the Native Americans.

Become a Mill Docent

The Grist Mill is open for tours April through October:
Fridays: 12:00 P.M. until 4:00 P.M. (June 1st–August 31st)
Saturdays: 12:00 P.M. until 4:00 P.M. 
Sundays: 12:00 P.M. until 4:00 P.M.
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The Grist Mill is available for school and group tours by appointment. 
We look forward to helping you plan and schedule an outing uniquely designed for your group.
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The beginning fee is $75.00 for specially-scheduled group tours. As a nonprofit organization, we thank you for understanding and supporting FCCA’s mission! ​

GRIST MILL RENTAL INFORMATION

Video by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources