Stewards Mill Store, 1869
Fairfield, Freestone County, Texas
Marker Inscription
In settlement begun 1849 at Washington Steward's grist mill-- only one in area. Later had post office, brick plant, sawmill and county's first phone exchange. Still owned by heirs of early partner. Doorstep is original millstone. 1964 fixtures include first counters, bins, cabinets. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark, 1964
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
The settlement around Stewards Mill grew up beginning in 1849 around Washington Steward's grist mill, the only one in the area, which drew a post office, brick plant, sawmill, and the county's first telephone exchange. The store dating to 1869 remained in the hands of an early partner's heirs, its doorstep an original millstone and its 1964 interior still fitted with the first counters, bins, and cabinets.
Why it matters
A country mill and its store were the economic heart of countless rural communities, and Stewards Mill's remarkable continuity makes it a rare living record of nineteenth-century commerce.
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Related people
- · Washington Steward
Themes & tags
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