Farmers Weekly Review

A couple of falling beams won’t stop Peotone Historical Society’s 22nd Annual Old Mill Fest.

It’s happening on September 15, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public.

The historic, 152-year-old German smock mill–affectionately dubbed “Millie”– has been repaired, and the fest will go on, according to PHS President Ed Nelson.

“The Peotone Historical Society has been working hard to make this years’ Old Mill Fall Fest bigger and better than ever,” he said.

“We will have craftsmen demonstrating the same type of skills that were used around the turn of the century, as well as having re-enactors such as Mr. and Mrs. Abraham Lincoln and others on site.

“Additionally, there will be more vendors and crafters this year, a quilt raffle and our annual bake sale. “Peotone’s very own Fire Pit Bar and Grill will again be serving their delicious food. Archy’s Sweet Treats will also be there with ice cream and popcorn.

The Peotone Mill — formerly HA Rathje Mill — was built in 1872, Nelson said. “When it was in operation, it was used to grind flour and wheat.

“Visitors are encouraged to explore the inside of the Peotone Mill where you can go all the way up to the fifth floor.

“We have on display many historical items from Peotone’s early years, and also of the surrounding area. “Come and explore the grounds around the mill, check out the perennial gardens where you’re bound to see some pollinators and maybe even a hummingbird.

“Come on out and enjoy a full day of fun!”

“You may have heard that in early August there was damage at the Peotone Mill,” Nelson said.

“Two large beams on the outside of the mill, used to turn the cap (the top of the mill where the blades would be attached to) came crashing down onto the 2nd floor balcony. The balcony had already been scheduled to be removed due to its age and rotting lumber.

“But this now sped up that project and due to the safety issues, it needed to be done sooner than later. Thankfully, the actual mill structure was left unscathed.

Nelson said he worked with newly appointed Village Administrator Nick Palmer, Peotone Public Works Superintendent Bob Hennke, and Chief of Police David Demik to get the work done.

“The mill was closed for a few weeks, but at no time did we ever think the Old Mill Fall Fest wouldn’t happen.

“The removal of the rotting and damaged 2nd floor balcony and the large outside beams has been completed.

“It was terrible to see the mill damaged this way, and many people have commented that she looks naked in her present form,” he said, adding the recent damage may have been a blessing in disguise.

“It has brought so much positive attention to the Peotone Mill in the past month. The people of Peotone and beyond have been asking how they can donate to help raise money for the restoration project for the mill.

“As a result, a GoFund Me account has been created and a savings account has been set up at First Community Bank and Trust in Peotone. Donations have been coming in to both.”

“More recently, Vicki Moore of Game On Bar & Grill in Peotone has generously volunteered to host a Golf Cart Pub Crawl Bingo on Saturday, September 7, to raise money for the Peotone Mill. When she reached out to the other local bars, she had positive responses from all in a matter of minutes.

“We are so grateful that the other businesses were very eager to participate. We’re hopeful that this event will have a great turnout as well. It will not only benefit the Peotone Mill, but also bring people into our local bars.

“Check in at Game On will be at 10 a.m. September 7. It’s $10 for a bingo card, and there will also be raffles. The pub crawl will leave Game On at 11 a.m., going to Fire Pit Bar and Grill, Peotone Bowl/Hansen’s Dugout, Peotone American Legion, Suzie’s Saloon, and finally finishing up at Game On.

“The Peotone Historical Society wants to say that we greatly appreciate all the work that Vicki and her girls will do for this benefit,” Nelson emphasized, “and we hope that lots and lots of people will come out for a great day of fun!

“Help us have a successful day of fundraising and community fun together for Millie.”

The GoFund Me link is https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-save-the-peotone-mill-support-urgent-repairs.