Stepping into Chase's Mill is stepping back into time. This current iteration of the Mill sits on the foundation stones set in place in 1767, upon which a grist mill was erected to support the farmers settling the new town of Alstead. From the cat walk level (aka, turbine pit), to the line shaft floor, to the woodworking shop and on up to the community room, this complete tour will give you a sense of the past and the present coming together and the threads of service to the community that continue to this day.

For water power enthusiasts, on this tour you will see the major water-powered components of Chase’s Mill and watch the two turbines run. The larger turbine demonstrates how power moves from the turbine to the line shaft, countershafts, and machines. The smaller turbine demonstrates generating 12V electricity using a car alternator for electric lighting. The tour will include the gristmill and sawmill models made by Heman Chase.

Growing up in the 1950s, Bob Brown and his siblings were Heman Chase’s first regular shop students. From this influential early exposure to woodworking and making things, Bob went on to a career as a science educator. He now recognizes Chase’s Mill as a “learning place” with the potential to enrich the creative lives of both young and older visitors. Bob will lead your tour for up to 6 people!

https://chasesmill.org/