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Rikard's Mill Historical Park: A Step Back in Time

Discover 19th-century life at this historic water-powered gristmill and folk traditions park in Beatrice, Alabama.

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Rikard's Mill Historical Park, located near Beatrice, Alabama, offers a glimpse into 19th-century pioneer life. The park's centerpiece is a restored water-powered gristmill dating back to 1845, along with other historical structures that showcase traditional folkways.

A brief summary to Rikard's Mill Historical Park

Local tips

  • Check the Monroe County Museum website or call ahead for current opening status and event schedules.
  • Attend the annual Syrup-Making Day in November for a hands-on experience of traditional cane syrup production.
  • Explore the gift shop in the covered bridge for locally sourced cornmeal, grits, and cane syrup.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Rikard's Mill Historical Park is located north of Beatrice, AL. From Beatrice, drive approximately 3.9 miles north on Highway 265. Turn right at the intersection of Hwy 265 and County Road 56. The park entrance is about 0.5 miles ahead on the right. Parking is available on-site. There are no fees to park.

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Discover more about Rikard's Mill Historical Park

Nestled in the piney woods along Flat Creek, Rikard's Mill Historical Park provides an immersive experience of rural Alabama life in the 1800s. The park revolves around the fully functional, water-powered gristmill, originally built in 1845 by Jacob “Jake” Rikard. Visitors can witness corn being ground into cornmeal and grits, a staple of the era. The park includes a collection of restored buildings and exhibits that demonstrate various aspects of pioneer life. These include a blacksmith shop, a cane syrup mill, a barn exhibit, a pioneer cabin, and a covered bridge that serves as a gift shop. The Monroe County Heritage Museums operate the park and host events dedicated to preserving traditional folkways, such as gristmilling, blacksmithing, and syrup making. Rikard's Mill was added to the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage on October 7, 1998. Though the park has faced funding challenges and may be temporarily closed to the public, it continues to host annual events like Pioneer Days and Cane Syrup Makin' Day. These events offer interactive experiences and demonstrations, providing an engaging educational opportunity for visitors of all ages.

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