Before the Great Smoky Mountains were a popular tourist attraction, there was once a thriving settlement. People took pride in living and working on the land. There were various figures that helped contribute to the success of the settlement. Let us tell you more about one of those people and their accomplishments. Here are all the details about the Alfred Reagan Place and grist mill on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail:
About Alfred Reagan
Alfred Reagan was born on November 6, 1856. His dad was a farmer, and Reagan followed in his footsteps. When Reagan grew up, he also became a master carpenter. Reagan used these skills to build what would later be known as the Alfred Reagan Place. He lived in the house with his wife and children. The property also had a corn crib and a blacksmith shop. Reagan used the land to farm and raise cattle as well. In addition to physical labor, he was very religious and acted as a preacher for the community. Reagan used his many talents for good and took pride in serving others. It is no surprise that he was well-liked by many people who lived in Roaring Fork.
Building the Grist Mill
It can be argued that the gristmill was Alfred Reagan’s most important accomplishment in the Roaring Fork community. Before he built it, farmers were forced to grind their wheat and corn by hand, which was a very time-consuming process. The grist mill harnessed the power of water to make it easier. The water turned the turbine wheel which then operated a grindstone. Farmers could now quickly grind wheat and corn to make flour and cornmeal. They could use it for themselves or sell it to other settlers for profit.
Where to See the Alfred Regan Place and Grist Mill
Visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park can see the Alfred Reagan Place and the grist mill on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. The National Park Service (NPS) has worked hard to preserve both structures. In fact, it is currently the only building on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail that has been painted. The house and the grist mill are close together on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. This is a scenic drive that is 5.5 miles one-way. It gets its name because the route is home to one of the largest and fastest rivers in the national park. Other things you’ll see along this drive include the Ephraim Bales Cabin. He was another prominent settler who lived in the area long ago. If you plan to take this route, keep in mind that it does close seasonally from early December through late March. The NPS does this to ensure that visitors are safe from icy conditions caused by cold weather.
Now you know more about the Alfred Reagan Place and grist mill on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. Want to know even more about this route before you visit? Explore our list of what you need to know about the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
