Before it was the most popular place in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cades Cove was a community where hundreds of settlers lived. A lot of people were responsible for helping it thrive. Their hard work is still visible today through various structures in the area. Read on to learn about one of them before your next visit! Here is the history of the John Cable Mill in Cades Cove:
About John P. Cable
The man behind this important Cades Cove grist mill was named John P. Cable. His family had already planted their roots here, for he was a descendant of an earlier settler named Peter Cable. John Cable’s own family consisted of his son and daughter, Dan and Rebecca (Read More: The Becky Cable House). Cable worked as a farmer and knew how time-consuming it was to turn wheat and corn into flour by hand. He sought to make the process easier for himself and other settlers.
Construction & Operation of the Cable Mill
John P. Cable built his mill in 1867. It harnessed power from the water to turn an 11-foot wheel. The wheel drives a runner stone, which grinds the wheat or corn into a fine powder. Farmers could use the finished product themselves or sell it to other settlers. Farmers were thankful to have more time on their hands and less work.
An added benefit of the grist mill was that it built community. People would socialize as they waited for the crops to be processed. What’s more? The power from the 11-foot wheel also operated sawmills as well. Homes could quickly be built to accommodate the growing community.
Preservation of the Cades Cove Mill
The National Park Service has worked hard to carry on the legacy of John P. Cable by preserving his mill. The structure received a new water wheel in 2018. This is because water gathered at the bottom and eroded the wood. The damage can slow down the turning of the wheel. Even though the structure has received minor improvements, the stones on the wheel have been in use for 150 years.
How Do I See the John P. Cable Mill?
Want to see the John Cable Grist Mill in action on your next visit to the Smokies? It is located right next to the Cades Cove Visitor Center. It operates seasonally from March 5th to October 31st between 9 AM and 5 PM every day. After that, you’ll still have the opportunity to see the mill Fridays through Sundays in November.
While you’re here, explore the Cades Cove Visitor Center. It has indoor and outdoor exhibits that showcase mountain life and culture. If you want to learn more about Cades Cove, talk to a knowledgeable park ranger. You can also purchase a book or guide to take home. The store also has other souvenirs like shirts, mugs, and keychains.
More Cades Cove History
We hope you enjoyed learning about the history of the John Cable Mill in Cades Cove! Did you know that several structures near it have been moved from their original spots? Explore our list of Cades Cove cabins and buildings that have been moved!
