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Hayden Flour Mill: A Tempe Landmark

Explore Tempe's history at the iconic Hayden Flour Mill, a landmark showcasing the city's agricultural past and vibrant future.

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The Hayden Flour Mill, located in Tempe, Arizona, stands as a testament to the city's agricultural roots. Established in 1874 by Charles Trumbell Hayden, the mill processed grain for local farmers and became a major economic driver in the region. Today, the preserved mill is a historical landmark and event venue, offering visitors a glimpse into Tempe's past.

A brief summary to Hayden Flour Mill

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Check local event calendars for festivals or markets held at the mill.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the green space surrounding the mill.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Tempe Town Lake, head east along the lakefront path until you reach S Mill Ave. Turn right onto S Mill Ave and walk south. The Hayden Flour Mill is located at 119 S Mill Ave.

  • Public Transport

    The Hayden Flour Mill is located across from the Mill Avenue light rail station. Step off the train platform and head north towards the mill. A one-way fare on Valley Metro Rail is $2.00.

  • Parking

    Several parking garages are located near the Hayden Flour Mill. The 100 Mill Parking Garage is located at 100 S Mill Avenue, a short walk west of the mill. Rates are $3 per hour, with a daily maximum of $20. The Hayden Square Garage is located at 154 W 5th Street. Rates are $2 per hour, with a $12 daily maximum.

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Discover more about Hayden Flour Mill

The Hayden Flour Mill, situated at the north end of Mill Avenue in Tempe, Arizona, serves as a reminder of the city's agricultural heritage. Founded in 1874 by Charles T. Hayden, a businessman and judge from Tucson, the mill was established on the Salt River to provide a crucial service to local farmers: milling their grain into flour. The settlement was initially known as “Hayden's Ferry”. Hayden's mill quickly gained prominence, producing high-quality flour that was distributed throughout the West. The mill's success led to the growth of Hayden's other businesses, including freighting and a general store. The Maricopa and Phoenix Railroad reached Tempe in 1887, further connecting the mill to regional and national markets. The current mill building, constructed in 1918, replaced two earlier mills that were destroyed by fire. The architects used techniques developed after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake to make the building fire-resistant. The grain elevator and silos were added in 1951 and were the tallest structures in Tempe until 2007. Though the mill ceased operations in 1998, it remains a significant landmark. In 2022, the city of Tempe approved a plan to restore and redevelop the Hayden Flour Mill. The redevelopment project includes new restaurants and shops, a public park, and an improved trailhead to A Mountain. Today, the grounds are open for picnics and casual recreation.

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