I’m kicking off the 2015 edition of Pumpkins & Spice with a little bit of a history lesson. Check out this building! This is an old mill in the Village of Williamsville, NY and just a couple miles from my home. Locally many refer to it as “the old red mill”. It was originally built in 1811 and operated as a sawmill until 1903. From 1903-1908 it was still occupied by some different milling businesses. In 1908 the mill started to be used as a facility for the production of apple cider, and in 1983 this building was deemed worthy of preservation and placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
There is something about this building that I have always loved, even as a little kid. I don’t know if it’s just the bright red color, the memories of visiting as a kid with my Mom when we went to feed the ducks in the park just behind it or a combination of the two. Regardless, I am so happy to see it restored and operating with new life today. It has recently been under renovation by a new enthusiastic local owner and is now operating as Sweet Jenny’s Chocolate & Ice Cream shop and 1811 Comic Shop. Going back to the building’s historical roots, they are also now selling apple cider from a local cider mill. In one visit I got to take a step back in time to see this great big beautiful old building and officially kick off the fall season with my first apple cider purchase of the year and a little walk in the park near the mill. This my friends is what we call a good day. Looking forward to sharing another fall season together!
Erin
P.S. This place also has some of the best chocolates I’ve ever had. They have a line of “silk” chocolates and trust me, they are not to be missed if you stop by!
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