Nestled in a quiet river valley a few miles north of Union, West Virginia stands a little known historical treasure: Reed's Mill. It's been grinding local grain for well over 200 years and, much to the delight of many happy customers, it shows no sign of stopping any time soon.
First established in 1791 as McDowell's Mill, Reed's Mill (which changed hands from the McDowell to Reed families in the early 1900s) is located on Second Creek in Monroe County, West Virginia.
Second Creek once boasted 20 mills in 22 miles of creek flow. Now, Reed's Mill is one of the only ones left.
You can still visit this historic structure, and even more importantly, you can still purchase stone-ground, whole-grain processed, native variety flours very similar to what was eaten by the pioneers in the 1700s.
The grains used in Reed's Mill's line of products have been passed down through local families for generations, and they are all heirloom varieties, which tend to be hardier and more nutritious than hybrids grown more widely today. At Reed's Mill, the whole grain is ground and the flour is sold un-sifted, so you benefit from the nutrients (and flavor and texture) of the entire grain.
Bloody Butcher cornmeal and Buckwheat flour are just two of many products available for purchase at Reed's Mill.
There's also wheat flours, other varieties of cornmeal, and even some non-grain related products! The current price is $3/lb for flour and cornmeal, but of course is subject to change. Products are routinely available in 3, 5, and 10 lb bags, but larger quantities can be purchased with a pre-arrangement.
All the grains are hand processed and additive/preservative free, and you can definitely taste the delicious difference this careful handling makes.
Additionally, in a back room of the mill, you can find the Everette Hogsett Broom Factory and see how authentic corn brooms are made.
To purchase any of the products offered at Reed's Mill or to tour the mill and broom factory, stop by on a Saturday between 9-4 or call ahead to schedule an appointment with the current owner, Mr. Mustain, a Reed on his mother's side.
He can be reached at 304-772-5665.
If you're in Second Creek visiting the mill, you're not too far from Cheese 'n' More in Gap Mills, which is another good place to stock up on bulk spices, dairy products, and more!
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