Master miller to offer lecture, training for gristmill operation

Master miller to offer lecture, training for gristmill operation

Special to The Vindicator

YOUNGSTOWN — On Aug. 14 and 15, Mill Creek MetroParks will host Ivins Smith, master miller from Cooper Gristmill of Morris County, N.J., at Lanterman’s Mill on Canfield Road, U.S. Route 62, Youngstown.

Smith, a member of The International Molinological Society of America, has been operating and studying gristmills for more than 35 years.

Millers, mill owners, operators and stewards, and any others wishing to register for the lecture and hands-on training can obtain the necessary forms by calling (330) 740-7115 Tuesdays through Sundays.

Topics include 19th-century power-transmission systems, gear and bearing repair, lubrication and routine maintenance. Students will also dress, sharpen and hang Lanterman’s Mill’s grindstones.

Student fees are $25 for Friday, $30 for Saturday, or $50 for both days.

Fees include admission to Lanterman’s Mill and others on the tour, transportation for mill tours on Saturday and all meals. Registration deadline is Aug. 10. Class is limited to 30 participants.

The general public has a unique opportunity to observe Smith and his students practicing the skills important to the care and preservation of these vanishing structures.

The visitor can enjoy an up-close, seldom-seen aspect of living history on these two days.

Interested visitors should call ahead for the schedule of events for each day; handicap-accessible parking is also available by calling (330) 740-7115.