Circular Sawmill aka The Old Sawmill aka Stony Creek Sawmill

The circular saw was used to cut lumber for use in construction. Logs were set on a carriage frame on a track and fed into the spinning saw. After 1850, circular sawmills were common in Michigan and other lumbering communities across America. According to the original 1933 guidebook, this mill was operated by the water of Stony Creek in Monroe, Michigan, powered by a waterwheel, all the while sitting near the Loranger Gristmill. It seems, however, that Mr. Ford converted it to a steam engine once rebuilt in Greenfield Village.
The equipment on the inside of this building is original to the mid-19th century, from what I understand. Unfortunately, at this time I have no photos of the machinery or of the interior at all.The exterior, according to the Benson Ford Research Center, is a replica of the original structure of the 1850's, built in the Village in 1928. Looks like someone didn't proof-read the placard, however, that sits in front of the building, which says this is a 1938 replica of sawmills from that era.
I have to believe the Benson Ford, as the sketches in the early guidebooks (pre-1938) show this building.
Another very fine example of mid-19th century everyday life.



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