Information
Landmark: Silver Saddle RanchCity: Carson City
Country: USA Nevada
Continent: North America
Silver Saddle Ranch, Carson City, USA Nevada, North America
The Old Mill is a historic gristmill located within T. R. Pugh Memorial Park in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Visual Characteristics
Constructed from rough-hewn fieldstone and timber, the mill features a prominent water wheel and a steeply pitched roof. Its architecture reflects a rustic, early 20th-century design. The surrounding parkland includes mature trees and a small creek.
Location & Access Logistics
The Old Mill is situated at 6800 Grand Avenue, Little Rock, AR 72207. It is approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) west of the Little Rock city center. Parking is available in designated lots within T. R. Pugh Memorial Park. Public transport options include the Little Rock Metro Streetcar, with a stop approximately 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) from the park entrance, followed by a walk or taxi.
Historical & Ecological Origin
The Old Mill was constructed in 1933 by W.C. Brown, funded by the Works Progress Administration (WPA). It was designed to resemble a 19th-century gristmill and served as a picturesque focal point for the park. The mill is built on the banks of a small tributary that feeds into the Arkansas River.
Key Highlights & Activities
Visitors can observe the exterior of the mill and its water wheel. Photography is a common activity. Walking paths surround the mill and extend throughout T. R. Pugh Memorial Park. No operational milling activities occur.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available within T. R. Pugh Memorial Park. Shaded areas are provided by mature trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are located directly at the Old Mill site, but concessions may be found elsewhere in the larger park or in nearby commercial areas.
Best Time to Visit
For optimal lighting for photography, early morning or late afternoon provides softer light. The park is accessible year-round. The water wheel's operation is dependent on water levels, which can fluctuate.
Facts & Legends
The Old Mill was famously featured in the opening scene of the 1939 film "Gone with the Wind." Despite its appearance, it was never a functional gristmill; it was built solely for aesthetic purposes.
Nearby Landmarks
- Pinnacle Mountain State Park: 15km Northwest
- Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site: 7km East
- Arkansas State Capitol Building: 9km East
- William J. Clinton Presidential Center: 10km East
- Big Dam Bridge: 12km Northeast