The historical importance of sawmills in Mills River dates back to the mid-1800s, playing a crucial role in the growth and development of the Upper Mills River community. Families like Tom Wilson and Ed Whitaker operated mills, converting logs into rough lumber for various purposes.
Early houses in the area were built using lumber from the water-powered Silas Sitton mill, near the iron forge site on South Mills River. Tragically, Silas met his end in a sawmilling accident in 1912, but these early sawmills set the stage for the region’s economic development.
Today, the “Woodpecker Sawmill,” owned by Billy Kimzey and his son Willy, is the last remaining sawmill in Upper Mills River. Situated off South Mills River Road, the mill continues the tradition of producing lumber for pallets and custom orders, supporting farmers and woodlot owners in the area.
Billy Kimzey, carrying on the family tradition, stresses the significance of small woodlots in preserving farmland in Mills River. These woodlots not only contribute to the agricultural landscape but also bridge the gap between farming and environmental conservation.
However, as Mills River faces rapid development and conversion of farmland to residential and commercial use, challenges arise. Billy Kimzey, also a member of the Town of Mills River Planning Board, raises concerns about balancing growth with the preservation of the area’s unique character.
Despite these challenges, the legacy of sawmills continues to shape the history and growth of Mills River, from its humble beginnings in manual labor to its current status as a vital component of the community’s economic prosperity.
