Bishop’s Mill, Willington, CT Rte 74, near the Ashford town line.
Old mill pond and later generation dam
Waterway: Fenton River
Water power: Most likely an overshot wheel
Mill type: Saw mill, grist mill
Water power: Most likely an overshot wheel
Mill type: Saw mill, grist mill
History: Little historical could be found on the site. It was listed on the 1869 map of Willington as Bishop’s saw mill and the mill dam was known to have been washed out in 1869. It was rebuilt and breached at least one more time and possibly more. The current dam is most likely a third generation dam and bears little resemblance to the mill dam. At this writing, additional information has been located. It will be added when verified.
Site Characteristics: The site is located on Turnpike Road near the Ashford town line. Due to breaching of the dam, associated flood damage, and general deterioration over time, traces of the old mill dam and mill no longer exist. The existing dam is at least a third generation dam. The mill was located on the east side or left bank of the Fenton River. A short head race diverted water to the mill with a tail race returning water to the river about 50 feet below. The old site can be viewed from Turnpike Road but is on private property.
Additional Sources of Information: Upcoming book on Willington’s Lost Mill Sites
Site Characteristics: The site is located on Turnpike Road near the Ashford town line. Due to breaching of the dam, associated flood damage, and general deterioration over time, traces of the old mill dam and mill no longer exist. The existing dam is at least a third generation dam. The mill was located on the east side or left bank of the Fenton River. A short head race diverted water to the mill with a tail race returning water to the river about 50 feet below. The old site can be viewed from Turnpike Road but is on private property.
Additional Sources of Information: Upcoming book on Willington’s Lost Mill Sites
Old mill pond after being drained in 2013
