The Old Mill, Central Arkansas Travel Guide

The Old Mill, located in North Little Rock's T.R. Pugh Memorial Park, is a captivating historical recreation of an 1880s water-powered gristmill. Constructed in 1933, it was designed to appear as though it had been standing since the 1800s, complete with a weathered look that mimics the abandoned mills of the era. Developer Justin Matthews commissioned the mill as an attraction to draw buyers to his new residential development, Lakewood.The mill is not a reproduction of any specific mill but rather a composite design familiar to early Arkansas. The surrounding park is adorned with unique sculptures by Mexican artist Dionicio Rodriguez, who masterfully crafted concrete to resemble wood, stone, and iron. These faux bois sculptures include tree stumps, toadstools, benches, and a distinctive tree branch-entwined bridge.The Old Mill gained fame for its appearance in the opening scenes of the 1939 film 'Gone With the Wind' and is believed to be the only remaining structure from the movie. Visitors can explore the mill's interior, which houses parts from other historical mills, including a grist mill dating back to 1828. The park also features milestones from an 1830s military road used during the Trail of Tears.The Old Mill is a popular spot for photographs, weddings, and leisurely strolls. The park is open to the public from 8:00 AM until sunset and admission is free.