Two historic mills are being renovated by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park through a public-private partnership.
The Daily Times reports crews recently replaced a roof at the John P. Cable Grist Mill in Cades Cove and are beginning work to replace the drive belt on the turbine of the Mingus Mill in North Carolina.
Historic Preservation Program Manager Randy Hatten says the renovations are in preparation for the park service’s centennial celebration in 2016. Officials say the $35,440 project is being paid for out of public and private funds.
Cable Mill is undergoing further renovation. Rotten cribbing under the flume is being replaced. At Mingus Mill, workers will replace the lumber lining of the waterway that feeds the mill’s water wheel.
