June 14th: Demo Day + Lenape Brass Band performance! 

Join us at the Mill on Saturday, June 14, for a special Demo Day featuring a live performance by the Lenape Brass Band from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM! From 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, explore the Mill as it comes to life with demonstrations of the grinding process, just as it operated in the colonial era. The last tour begins at 3:00 PM. Mill demonstrations take place every second Saturday of the month from April through December—this time, we’re kicking things off early with live music, history, and family-friendly fun!

Weekend Mill Tours

Step into history and join us at The Mill at Anselma every Saturday from 10 am to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. to immerse yourself in the colonial-era milling process. And if you're craving some outdoor adventure, our nature trail awaits you daily, offering serene walks amidst nature's beauty from dawn to dusk.  

Check our website, Facebook, and Instagram pages for upcoming events. 

The Mill at Anselma Receives $10,000 America250PA Grant for Visitor Center Roof Restoration

The Mill at Anselma Preservation and Educational Trust, Inc. has been awarded a $10,000 grant from America250PA’s inaugural Semiquincentennial Grant Round to support its Visitor’s Center Roofing Project. This funding will allow the Mill to replace the aging roof on its Visitor Center, a renovated 18th-century Wagon Barn, helping to preserve and enhance the site for the upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.

"This project helps sharpen the image of the Mill as a key historic destination in Chester County and positions us to welcome new and returning visitors in 2026," said the Mill’s president, Ernie Holling. “The Mill and its dedicated volunteers truly appreciate America250PA working with us to ensure our site is ready to celebrate the creation of our country.”

The grant is part of America250PA’s mission to engage communities across all 67 counties in Pennsylvania through the E.P.I.C. framework—Educate, Preserve, Innovate, and Celebrate. “We strive to connect neighbors through the stories of our past, fostering pride in our shared journey and hope for our future,” said Cassandra Coleman, Executive Director of America250PA.

To learn more about the Semiquincentennial Grants, visit: america250pa.org/Semiquin_Grants

Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast: Neha Ananth Received Presidential Volunteer Award Second Year in a Row

At our recent Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast, Neha Ananth, a sophomore at Downingtown East High School, was honored with the President’s Volunteer Service Award—for the second consecutive year—in recognition of her exceptional dedication to The Mill at Anselma.

Over the past year, Neha completed more than 100 hours of volunteer service, taking on key roles that have made a meaningful impact. From leading all children’s programming at Cider Fest to supporting event logistics and data management behind the scenes, Neha’s leadership, creativity, and passion have enriched the Mill’s mission and visitor experience.

The national award—personally signed by the President of the United States—was presented by Ernie Holling, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, during the breakfast celebration.

“We are incredibly proud of Neha’s commitment and enthusiasm,” said Assemgul Bissenbina, Chair of Marketing and Communications. “Her dedication exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism and community engagement that keeps the Mill’s legacy alive.”

Neha’s work reflects not only her interest in history and education, but also her ability to inspire others to become active stewards of their community and its heritage.

New Signs Installed at The Mill, Thanks to the Generosity of Dr. and Mrs. Donald J. Rosato

We’re excited to share that new signs have been installed across The Mill at Anselma’s property! These beautifully updated panels replace the original signage from when the Mill first opened to the public in 2005, offering visitors a fresh and engaging way to learn about our history and explore the site.

This important improvement was made possible thanks to the generous support of Dr. and Mrs. Donald J. Rosato, whose longstanding commitment to the Mill continues to enrich the experience for all who visit.

The signs were designed and produced by Miller Design Works, a local company that was professional, timely, and responsive throughout the process. Their attention to detail and thoughtful design bring new life to the Mill’s story.

We are sincerely grateful to the Rosato family and Miller Design Works for helping us preserve and share the Mill’s legacy for future generations.

If you would like to sponsor a new sign at the Mill or support another project, please follow the button below to learn more.

The Mill Launches Redesigned Website!

We’re excited to announce the launch of our newly redesigned website, now live at anselmamill.org! This refresh was made possible through the generous donation of a long-time supporter. Sleek, modern, and user-friendly, the new site better reflects our mission and enhances the experience for visitors, supporters, and the broader community.

For a nonprofit organization like ours, a well-designed website is more than just a tool—it’s our digital front door, helping us share our story, welcome guests, connect with donors, and celebrate the legacy of The Mill.

Check out these new features:

• See what’s coming up every month with our new events page

• Explore our digital collections of historical images, artifacts, and documents

• Learn more about our educational programs for students

• Find inspiration for unique rustic weddings and events

• Follow our blog about how past Millers lived

• Learn about stone ground flour and cornmeal and check out our recipe for cornbread!

And much, much more! Visit us today at www.anselmamill.org and explore all the exciting updates.

A Year in the Life of a Chester County Miller

In the 18th and 19th centuries, millers were the backbone of Chester County’s agricultural economy. From spring through fall, they worked tirelessly grinding wheat, corn, and other grains brought in by local farmers. These were the busiest months—when water levels were high, crops were fresh from the fields, and flour was in constant demand.

Winter didn’t bring rest—it brought a different kind of work. Millers used colder months to repair wooden gears, clean the millstones, press cider, or even cut ice for local refrigeration. At places like the Mill at Anselma, winter also meant serving as a community hub—offering machine repairs, sharpening tools, and even hosting a barber’s chair.

Mills like the Great Valley Mill and Brinton’s Mill followed similar seasonal rhythms—focused on grain in warmer months and upkeep or alternative work in the off-season. Along Chester Creek, mill operations even evolved with the times, shifting from grain to lumber and eventually to cotton.

Throughout the year, the mill was more than just a place of work—it was a symbol of resilience, resourcefulness, and community in early Chester County.

Rent the Mill for your next event! 

The Mill at Anselma is a pristine 22-acre property that plays host to numerous attractions in addition to the historical buildings on site. The Mill is open for your next event, from weddings to graduation parties, as well as for filming and photography! Site rentals can be done through our website, where you can also choose from our list of caterers, photographers and vendors who specialize in making your event one to remember!

In addition to events, we offer private tours and different membership options for those looking to support our efforts here at the Mill at Anselma! Please check our website or come on down and meet us in person to secure your membership today! We are also eagerly searching for new enthusiastic volunteers and would love to have you join our team! Please reach out to us for more details regarding private tours, membership options, and volunteer work!

Check out the Junebug Weddings blog featuring The Mill at Anselma: Romantic Rosy and Rust Pennsylvania Wedding Inspiration at Anselma Mill

The newsletter was prepared by the Mill’s marketing and communications team.

Copyright © 2025. The Mill at Anselma Preservation and Educational Trust, Inc. All rights reserved.
Address:
The Mill at Anselma Preservation and Educational Trust, Inc.
1730 Conestoga Road
Chester Springs, PA 19425
610.827.1900
www.anselmamill.org