Background

Stony Brook Grist Mill: A Step Back in Time

Experience history in motion at this fully operational 18th-century grist mill on Long Island's north shore.

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The Stony Brook Grist Mill, dating back to 1751, stands as a testament to Long Island's rich history. This fully operational mill offers visitors a glimpse into 18th-century milling practices and the region's agricultural past.

A brief summary to Stony Brook Grist Mill

  • Sunday 1 pm-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Check the operating hours before visiting, as the mill has limited weekend hours.
  • Explore the Country Store for unique gifts and stone-ground flour.
  • Consider booking a private group tour for an in-depth look at the mill's mechanics.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Main Street in Stony Brook, head north on Harbor Road. The Stony Brook Grist Mill will be on your left. Parking is available nearby. Parking availability may be limited.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Stony Brook Station. From there, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service to the Stony Brook Grist Mill on Harbor Road, a trip of approximately 10 minutes. Taxi/ride-share cost is approximately $10-$15.

  • Walking

    From the Stony Brook Village Center, walk north on Main Street, then turn left onto Harbor Road. The Grist Mill will be a short walk down Harbor Road on your left. The walk is approximately 10 minutes.

Unlock the Best of Stony Brook Grist Mill

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Discover more about Stony Brook Grist Mill

The Stony Brook Grist Mill, located in Stony Brook, New York, is more than just a historic landmark; it's a living, breathing piece of Long Island's past. The original mill was built in 1699 by Adam Smith, the son of Smithtown's founder, but the current structure dates back to around 1751. It stands as one of the most fully equipped working mills in the country, offering a fascinating look into the 18th-century milling process. During the Revolutionary War, the mill played a role in supplying grains to British soldiers. In the 19th century, it expanded its operations to include pressing wine grapes. For a time, the mill produced and shipped "natural stoned flour" across 48 states. Today, visitors can witness the miller demonstrating how corn is ground into cornmeal, just as it was centuries ago. The Grist Mill is listed on the New York State and National Register of Historic Places. Philanthropist Ward Melville acquired the mill in 1947 and later deeded it to the Ward Melville Heritage Organization, which now manages the site. A visit to the mill includes the opportunity to explore the charming country store, filled with stone-ground wheat flour, jams, jellies, colonial cooking books, toys, and antique kitchen utensils. In August 2024, flooding caused by a storm damaged the roadway next to the mill, draining the mill pond. Cleanup was required after the mill was buried in sand, but the structure itself was unharmed.

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