War Eagle Mill: A Working Piece of Arkansas History

War Eagle Mill stands as a testament to the pioneering spirit of Northwest Arkansas. Founded in 1832 by Sylvanus and Catherine Blackburn, the mill quickly became a vital part of the War Eagle Valley community. The original structure was tragically swept away by a flood in 1848, but the Blackburns, undeterred, rebuilt and expanded it to include a sawmill.The Civil War brought further hardship. The mill was used by both Union and Confederate forces, before being burned down by Confederate soldiers to prevent its use by the Union Army. The Blackburn family returned after the war to find their home the only structure still standing. A third mill was built in 1873, only to be destroyed by fire in 1924.For decades, the site remained empty until Jewel Medlin purchased the property and rebuilt the mill in 1973, using blueprints and incorporating an undershot water wheel. Today, the mill is powered by an 18-foot cypress water wheel and produces organic grain, cereal, and flour products. Visitors can tour the mill, dine at the Bean Palace Café, and shop for unique gifts. The adjacent War Eagle Bridge, a one-lane steel bridge built in 1907 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, adds to the picturesque setting.War Eagle Mill hosts craft fairs every fall, drawing artisans and visitors from across the country. It's a place where history, craftsmanship, and natural beauty converge, offering a memorable experience for all.