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Old Mill Park is a public recreational area located in Fredericksburg, Virginia, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The park features a preserved 19th-century gristmill constructed of red brick. The mill building stands two stories high with a steeply pitched roof. Surrounding the mill is a mature deciduous forest with a moderate undergrowth. The Rappahannock River flows along the park's eastern boundary, its water color varying from brown to grey depending on recent rainfall. The riverbanks are lined with a mix of gravel and exposed rock.

Location & Access Logistics

Old Mill Park is situated approximately 1.5 kilometers south of downtown Fredericksburg. Access is via US Route 1 South, turning onto Kenmore Avenue. The park entrance is clearly marked. Ample paved parking is available on-site, accommodating approximately 100 vehicles. Public transport options are limited; Fredericksburg's main bus terminal is located downtown, requiring a taxi or ride-share service for the final segment.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The gristmill at Old Mill Park was constructed in 1845 by the Spotsylvania Iron Company. Its original purpose was to grind grain for local consumption and trade. The site is part of the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, which preserves battlefields from the American Civil War. The Rappahannock River at this point is a tidal estuary, influenced by the Chesapeake Bay.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore the exterior of the historic gristmill. Walking trails are available along the Rappahannock River. Fishing is permitted from designated areas along the riverbank. Picnicking facilities, including tables and grills, are provided. Birdwatching is a common activity due to the diverse avian population.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available near the main parking area. Several picnic shelters offer shade. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally reliable within the park. No on-site food vendors operate within Old Mill Park; however, several restaurants are located within a 1km radius in downtown Fredericksburg.

Best Time to Visit

For photography of the mill, early morning or late afternoon light provides optimal illumination. The best months for comfortable outdoor activity are April through October. The Rappahannock River's water level and clarity can fluctuate, impacting fishing and riverbank access, particularly after heavy rainfall.

Facts & Legends

During the Civil War, the mill was used as a Confederate observation post. Local lore suggests that the mill's original miller, a man named Silas Croft, still haunts the structure, his spectral presence marked by the sound of grinding stones on quiet nights.

Nearby Landmarks

• Mary Washington House (0.8km Northwest)
• Fredericksburg Battlefield (1.2km North)
• Kenmore Plantation and Gardens (0.6km West)
• Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop (1.0km Northwest)