Thompson’s Mills State Heritage Site

Thompson’s Mills is a unique reminder of times past, chronicling the past 150 years of Oregon rural life. It is the oldest water-powered grain mill in the state: its system of waterways, dams, control gates, ditches and dikes has moved water from the Calapooia River to the mill headgates since 1858. A water right that predates statehood produced the water flow that ran the milling machines. Pioneer families came with their grain crops and left with the flour that would keep them through the coming year.

Visitors to the mill see antique milling machinery, hand-hewn timbers and mortise-and-tenon construction. They see the mill operate and learn how grain was turned into flour for pioneer families. This is an unparalleled educational experience. Interpretive panels bring the mill stories to life. The mill site is a true and unique Oregon treasure.

• ADA accessible
• Guided tours available
• Interpretive signs
• Visitor center