Still milling about after all these years...

Clifton Mill complex

The rushing waters of the Little Miami River between Columbus and Dayton once created economic opportunity for dozens of mills in the 1880s.  Today a single mill provides seasonal delight to thousands while maintaining the legacy of enterprise in Ohio.  Greene County was home to over 70 mills in the early 1800s, as entrepreneurs took advantage of the river's natural energy source.  Over 16 were located in the Clifton area, of which today only the Clifton Mill remains.

Clifton Mill gorge

The Clifton Mill is the only mill that remains in operation. Originally constructed in 1803 as a complex of mill, tavern, trading post and distillery, the mill has a long history of community service.  During the War of 1812, the mill's grain was provided for soldiers and between 1908 and 1938 it provided electricity for the villages of Clifton, Cedarville and Yellow Springs.

covered foot-bridge at Clifton Mill

A covered foot-bridge allows the visitor a chance to walk over the river as it bounds down and through the gorge that powers the mill. The bridge gives a great photo opportunity of the mill proper and the gorge racing downriver towards the Ohio River miles away.  While the structures today are restored, the bridge itself has a weathered look to its that adds authenticity to the history of the mill.

Clifton Mill water wheel

Another nearby mill, the Grinnell Mill, dates back to 1821, built on the foundation of the previous mill that burned down.  It had been functioning since 1814.  The mill deteriorated over time, as the Grinnell family (owned between 1864 and 1948) handed it over to nearby Antioch College, who then had no resources to restore the mill when it was declared a fire hazard in 2003.  It has been lovingly restored and operates as a Bed and Breakfast with tours of the mill.

lights awaiting the holiday lighting season

Progress didn't benefit Clifton.  As floods wiped out mills along the river, electric power was preferred over water power and businessmen rebuilt elsewhere. The decision to locate the railroad at nearby Yellow Springs further eroded business in the village and in 1849 an outbreak of Cholera led to half the population's demise and many others simply chose to leave town.

Today the 200-person village of Clifton is easy to miss as you motor along Ohio SR 72 heading south from Springfield.  Tucked away on the west side of Rt 72 about 15 minutes south of Springfield, it is easy to miss Clifton 11 months out of the year.  But it's December that Clifton becomes a not-to-miss destination for Ohioans.  During the holiday season, 3.5 million lights are used to turn the gorge, mill and surrounding property into a winter wonderland.  

A miniature animated village and a 3,500-piece Santa collection compliment the lightscapes around the mill, which includes both a restaurant and gift shop.  A crew of six take most of three months to set up the displays that are viewed by thousands.  It has been an annual event for over 20 years.

The other 11 months find a much slower pace around the mill area. The mill claims to be the largest water-powered mill still in operation and conducts daily tours.  There are other buildings in town of historic nature, some available to tour others just showpieces.  

Clifton village other properties

While Clifton's hey-day has long since passed, and area residents commute to jobs around the area between Dayton, Springfield and Columbus, a little piece of what was a major industry in Ohio continues to flow just as the river it utilizes for its life.

- J.

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