I recently had the opportunity to visit Ole Gilliam Mill Park. Located in Sanford, North Carolina, it is home to the state’s longest covered bridge. The bridge spans 140’ and, other than once a year, is only open to pedestrian traffic. The park also includes the mill, several outbuildings, a pond, an old kiln, a sawmill, and various other old pieces of equipment located across the road. And don’t let me forget about the 72-foot-high windmill and water tank that towers over the bridge. Quite an amazing site!
Not much is known about the construction of the covered bridge, but reconstruction was done to it in the early 2000s. Although it is possible it was built around the same time as the original mill in 1850.
Unfortunately, the original mill was washed away by a flood in 1928. The current structure has been in place since 1979 and is located slightly up the creek from the original site. Thanks to the hard work of several kind souls, it is almost an exact replica of the original mill. Which is truly amazing, because by looking at it, you would never know.
As I walked through the bridge and around the park, I couldn’t help but get a sense of nostalgia. Between the grist mill, cotton gin and tobacco barn, I’m sure at one time it was full of life and bustling with activity. However, on this day, I had the park to myself. I did my best to capture the old timey feeling of the park in the pictures below. Hopefully you’ll get the feeling of being there yourselves.
It’s always fun to visit historical places. In fact, I visited several historic places on this day, including two very old churches, The Bryant House and McLendon Cabin, and Historic Yates Mill in Raleigh. Quite the adventure wouldn’t you say? And besides, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with stepping back in time for a few hours and seeing how life once was.
So, if you find yourself in the Sanford area, swing by and checkout Ole Gilliam Mill Park. It’s free to visit and you won’t be disappointed. Before you leave, I hope you take the time to look around my site, it’s filled with pictures of my many adventures. All of which are available in many different printing options as well as digital download. Check out my Photo Collections for more details. Thanks so much for stopping by. Hope to see you out on the road! Have a great day!
