Historic Anderson’s Grist Mill – Spartanburg, S.C.

The Rock Hill Herald reported on Jan. 20, 1887 – “An accident occurred on Wednesday at the Tanner Blind and Sash Factory in Spartanburg.  A young man named Cannon about sixteen was caught in the belting of one of the machines and was thrown against the wall, causing his death.  He was the grandson of the Hon. Gabriel Cannon.”

City Directories and History:  Variously known as Nicholl’s Fort, Tanner’s Mill, and Anderson’s Mill, this structure sits on a foundation which dates from about 1780. The first court in the county met here in 1785. The water mill continued operation into the 1970s. It is located southeast of the city of Spartanburg where SC-64 crosses the North Tyger River. (Pictorial History of Spartanburg Co., S.C. – Racine)

Anderson’s Mill (originally Tanner’s Mill), is a good example of a water-powered gristmill, a once important element in the economy of eighteenth and nineteenth century piedmont South Carolina. Although the history of Anderson’s Mill may possibly begin in the late eighteenth century, the majority of the mill structure and its machinery are believed to date from the late nineteenth or early twentieth century.

Images courtesy of photographer Bill Segars – 2010

Located on the North Tyger River, Anderson’s Mill is a one-and-one-half story frame structure covered by corrugated tin siding. The structure features a low gable roof, with a projecting pent roof along the north façade. Fenestration is irregular. The eastern façade faces the river and features a metal water wheel that generates the power for the milling process. Water from the river is diverted through the wheel by a nearby lock and canal. The structure consists of a basement, main floor, and attic story. Milling machinery includes a feed mixer, self-rising mixer, scales, corn sheller, and a raised platform with a large millstone. The mill was operated commercially until 1975. Listed in the National Register November 14, 1978.

Shipping statement dated Sept. 19, 1853 for one pair of millstones and castings to James Anderson at Pliny, S.C. (Anderson’s Mill) from Dunham & Dimon of N.Y. These were delivered via their agent Caldwell Blakely in Charleston S.C., who shipped them to the mill.  Courtesy of the Douglas Collection – 2015

“Nichol’s Mill, now known as Anderson’s Mill, on the North Tyger River, three miles west of Spartanburg is one of the most interesting and historic corn mills in the area. The first county court was held here in June, 1785, on the plantation of Capt. David Anderson and has been known as Anderson’s Mill for many years. Mills Atlas of the

County (1825) designates the site as Nichol’s Mill. History records that the first county court was held at “the narrow pass on Tyger River.” The original stones for this mill, hewn from the rocks of the nearby shoals, have been resharpened over the years and are sdll used to grind corn. A spring back of the mill was a favorite drinking spot for those who hauled their corn to the mill.”  (According to other documents, the mill was acquired in 1831 by James “Enoree” Anderson.)

Information from: Names in South Carolina by C.H. Neuffer, Published by the S.C. Dept. of English, USC

The papers shared with R&R by the Douglas Family Collection clearly outline a routine business

Two of the numerous envelopes from George W. Williams to James “Enoree” Anderson over decades of doing business. Courtesy of the Douglas Collection – 2015

relationship with Charleston’s largest grocers and factors, including George W. Williams establishment on Haynes Street. He lived on Meeting St., and also operated an important financial establishment at #1 Broad Street.  See additional documentation of family history and genealogy found in the MORE INFORMATION link in the picture column.

R&R HISTORY LINK: DEAS MILL IN YORK CO SC

R&R HISTORY LINK:ENOREE SC – ANOTHER MILL SITE

R&R HISTORY LINK: CHARLESTON CONNECTIONS

Map section showing the location of Anderson’s Grist Mill on the Tiger River. Sloan – Epton Spartanburg Co Map ca. 1869. Courtesy of the Cobb Collection – Other Side of the River Museum, 2016

Primary location the the Anderon’s Mill. Sloan – Epton Spartanburg Co Map ca. 1869. Courtesy of the Cobb Collection – Other Side of the River Museum, 2016

Additional links: Anderson Mill

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R&R HISTORY LINK: The old Caliham’s – Price Mill

R&R HISTORY LINK: TEXT – NR NOMINATION

R&R HISTORY LINK: NATIONAL REGISTER – IMAGE(S)

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