West Point on the Eno Mill in Durham, NC - Water Mills on Waymarking.com

Thirty-two mills once dotted the Eno River and none has held so long and prominent a place in the history of Durham as the West Point Mill. Its location at an excellent ford accessible by roads from north, south, and west gave this mill the distinction of having functioned longer (1778-1942) and more prosperously than any other mill on the Eno River.

This mill also became the vital center for a thriving community of about 300 families. There was a general store, blacksmith shop, cotton gin, saw mill, and still. In 1839, the mill even became the location of a Post Office. Because it was the most westerly point on the mail route from Raleigh to Roxboro, the name West Point was given to the post office, to the mill, and to the community itself.

The mill ceased operations in 1942 when a flash flood broke the dam across the river, and the building colapsed from old age and neglect in 1973. Through the use of photographs of the original mill, remains of the framing, and the intact foundation, the mill was reconstructed with materials gleaned from other local grist mills. Today the West Point Mill is working again, grinding corn and wheat with water power on weekends. Stone-ground meal and flour, along with other items, are sold in the mill's store.

The mill and surrounding area are part of a city park. The three historic buildings, including the mill, are open 1 - 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, mid-March through mid-December. Admission is free. Weekday tours of the buildings can be arranged in advance by calling 471-1623.

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