old schwamb mill

This place is a great little gem with cool historical significance for adults and kids of all ages! Put it on your list of things to check out if you are ever traveling in the area!

Lovely little place. Had a very knowledgeable tour guide that showed us how frames were made back in the 19th century. No fee is required but they do ask for a $5 donation.

Old Schwamb Mill is a wonderful, authentic 19th century mill that made beautiful oval wooden frames for over a century. They still make a very limited number of frames onsite. It is lovingly cared for, all the machinery is there, and you can even see a demo of everything in motion as they turn on the amazing old machines during tours. The smell of freshly sawn wood completes the experience. This is a great place to show kids, but totally interesting to adults, too.The Old Schwamb Mill also has an art gallery with exhibits of local artists during the year. The quality of the art is often quite high, and the space is perfect for an offbeat gallery. There are other activities too, including music.Across the driveway there is a Shaker woodworking building that sells a good variety of beautifully made Shaker wood products. Expensive, as one would expect, but so beautiful and artful.My only caution is the very limited number of hours they are open. Definitely check their website before you go.

Visited the Mill a couple of weeks ago. Its even better than the last time I was there, with an Historical Talk plus an Art Reception. Definitely first class in every way.

Stepping into the Old Schwamb Mill is taking a step back in time. From the saws hooked up the the leather belt driven central power spindle to the oval and round picture frames produced the same way they were crafted in the 19th century, the spot is a wonderful dusty gem, hidden on a back street in Arlington. Make sure to also stop at the shaker craft store in the building across the street too. Hours are limited, so check in advance. There are demonstrations also.

I visited the Mill and was surprised at just how extensive the site is, with antique machinery and yet still operating. Reaaly worth a visit.