Old Mill at T. R. Pugh Memorial Park | Little Rock

Information

Landmark: Old Mill at T. R. Pugh Memorial Park
City: Little Rock
Country: USA Arkansas
Continent: North America

Old Mill at T. R. Pugh Memorial Park, Little Rock, USA Arkansas, North America

The Old Mill is a historic gristmill located within T. R. Pugh Memorial Park in Little Rock, Arkansas, USA.

Visual Characteristics

Constructed from rough-hewn local stone and timber, the mill features a prominent water wheel and a steeply pitched roof. Its exterior exhibits a weathered, rustic appearance, with visible mortar lines between the stones. The structure stands two stories high, with a smaller attic level.

Location & Access Logistics

The Old Mill is situated at 2000 North Shore Drive, Little Rock, AR 72207. It is approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) north of downtown Little Rock. Access is via North Shore Drive, which connects to Riverfront Drive. Ample free parking is available in the designated lot adjacent to the mill. Public transport options are limited; the closest bus route, Metro Streetcar Line 1, stops approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) south at the Little Rock Riverfront Station.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Old Mill was constructed in 1877 by Colonel Isaac B. Nash. It was originally built as a functional gristmill to process local grain. The mill is situated on the banks of a small creek, a tributary of the Arkansas River, which historically provided the water power for its operation.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the exterior architecture of the mill. Photography of the structure and its surroundings is permitted. Walking paths within T. R. Pugh Memorial Park offer views of the creek and park landscape. Access to the interior of the mill is not permitted.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within T. R. Pugh Memorial Park, located a short walk from the mill. Shade is provided by mature trees in the surrounding park area. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are located directly at the mill; dining options are available in downtown Little Rock.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting conditions for photography, early morning or late afternoon provides softer light on the stone structure. The best months for visiting are April through October, when weather is typically mild. The water wheel's operation is dependent on water flow, which can vary seasonally.

Facts & Legends

The Old Mill was famously used as a filming location for the opening scene of the 1939 film "Gone with the Wind." While the mill in the film was a set, the real Old Mill served as inspiration and was later restored to resemble its appearance in the movie.