War Eagle and Thereabouts

On Sunday morning we attended worship at the First Baptist Church in Bentonville, AR, then headed east toward the famed site of the War Eagle Mill and Craft Fair.

The actual fair which draws thousands from the surrounding states would be the following weekend, but the preparation plans were already taking place.

This side of the road will be home to hundreds of vendors for the weekend.

This opposite side will provide parking.  We were so glad our short visit did not coincide with this huge event.

On the other side of War Eagle Creek is the actual War Eagle Mill.

This one-lane bridge reasonably named the War Eagle Bridge, connects the fair grounds to the Mill and extensive camping grounds and crossing it is an adventure of its own.

War Eagle Mill’s exciting history begins with the story of a tenacious pioneer couple, Sylvanus and Catherine Blackburn, who understood the importance of fresh, natural food in the lives of families as far back as 1832 when the first Mill was built.  (Source)

After arriving in this lush valley, the first thing the young couple did was build a home overlooking the fields, and the War Eagle Creek.

The home is still standing today.  The history of this family, how time and the Civil War affected them and this area is worth reading HERE.

The Mill has been rebuilt and undergone many changes through the years, and was last purchased in 2004 by a young family; the original quality of products is still being produced.

Still operational, the mill was not working on this day because the water level was too low.

 The old homestead can be seen from inside the Mill.

There is also a very well preserved log cabin between the house and the creek.

I was unable to find out anything about this old building which sits in front of the mill but found it so fascinating.

 In front of this building, in the Y between War Eagle Rd and Bettis Hill Rd is this relic from times past.  I believe though that this library is still operational. 

The scenery back to Bentionville is also worth mentioning and sharing.

In a bend in the road, we caught a glimpse of this valley so stopped for a closer view.

"Little House on the Prairie" was all that came to mind.

This was a delightful road trip but we were ready to get back and spend the late afternoon on the Bentonville Downtown Square.

We toured the Walton Museum then treated ourselves to their delicious ice cream which tasted even better while watching young families around the square's fountain.

This had been a long but wonderful day and we were ready to get some rest before the long day ahead on Monday.

Linking to:

The Days October Travels - The Wedding
Fun Times in Bentonville - After the Wedding
Saturday in Bentonville