History of Mill Creek Dam

The dam was originally built by Judge Samuel Dexter in 1824. Mill Creek got its name because the dam provided hydropower for the sawmills and gristmills that supplied much of the timber and flour for the growing community within the village and its surrounding farmlands. Mill Creek Dam was rebuilt by Henry Ford in 1919 and 1932.

The water behind the dam formed Mill Pond, a 22 acre impoundment area, taking in water from a 144 square mile watershed. Residents used the impoundment area for a variety of recreational activities including fishing, boating and, when the surface was frozen, horse racing and ice skating.

By the 21st century the dam no longer served its original purpose. Along with the rebuilding of the Main Street Bridge the dam was removed in 2008 and Mill Pond dissipated. The removal provided an opportunity to reshape the landscape adjacent to Mill Creek leading to the development of Mill Creek Park.

Submitted by

Bryan Arnold

@nanowhiskers

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