RHS in Action

Inside the Messer/Mayer Mill and More

Click on the photo to see a very interesting video about the Messer/Mayer Mill (you will even see the 3rd floor!)

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It's Maple Syrup Tree Tapping Time

Mother Nature cooperated enough for the maple trees in the Richfield Historical Park (1896 Hwy 164) to be tapped on Feb. 24. Sap is running from some of the trees but not many yet. Warm days and cool nights are needed. To learn about the process, visit the Sugar Shack. The Maple Syrup Team is always willing to share their knowledge and may put you to work.

Click on the photo above to view a video showing the Maple Syrup Team tapping maple trees.

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Question of the Week

For the question: "What was once located on the hill south of the Richfield Elementary School", there were several correct answers -- a radio tower. Great! To learn more about this tower, click on Richfield Remembers in the menu near to top of this page, then select Richfield Stories. Find this story: "Richfield's Claim to Fame".

Next question: "Do you recognize the crossroads community pictured below that is now part of Richfield?"

Return on March 19 for the answer.

 

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New Addition to the Richfield Historical Park

A new roadway and berm are being built in the Park. This will eventually allow water to flow into the raceway for the mill and the people mover at events will take visitors to the Lillicrapp Welcome Center. The road will be finished in spring after the ground thaws.

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Photos Entered in SPOOM Contest Won 1st Place for the Interior Category

The Society for the Preservation of Old Mills (SPOOM) has a photography contest. This year, RHS submitted photos along with this 'story':

In a homage titled "Time Stands Still," volunteers of Richfield Historical Park recreated a century-old photo capturing the grist mill's interior. Motivated by its historical significance, the scene mirrors George Mayer, the owner in the original photo, with Al Mayer in the contemporary role. Every detail resonates authentically, down to the broken piece of millstone gear resting on the table. The mill itself, housing original equipment like turbines, millstones, and sifters untouched since its closure over 70 years ago, stands as a testament frozen in time. Currently undergoing restoration by dedicated volunteers, the mill will resume operations in the future, offering visitors a glimpse into its 150-year-old history.

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Around the County Podcast Featuring the Richfield Historical Society

The Society's president, Pete Samson, and Vice President, Joni Crivello, participated in a podcast about the Society and the Historical Park. This podcast is part of the Around the County series sponsored by the Tower Heritage Center (Washington County Historical Society).

Click Here to listen to this interesting narrative (Episode #25).

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Past Features of RHS in Action