Abstract:
Grist mills served as some of the earliest manufacturing sites developed by humans and saw crucially important technological advancements overtime. In the context of the United States, grist mills saw widespread construction throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, often being among the first structures developed in agrarian communities. Emerging in areas with powerful waterways, access to productive agricultural lands, and connections to lucrative markets, grist mills were among the most important building typologies of their era. An example of this unique structural type, the Hyland Mill in Eaton, Delaware County, Indiana existed throughout latter half of the 19th century. Examining the historical archaeological development, destruction, and current conditions of the site, this research paper aims to provide an overview of the Hyland Mill. In addition, the analysis of the evolution of grist mills overtime, their integration and establishment in the Midwest region of the United States, and a contextual overview of Delaware County will aid in this research. Ultimately, this research paper aims to understand the historical archaeological evolution of the Hyland Mill overtime, providing a useful example of this storied building typology.
