The other spot we enjoyed while visiting Kansas City was Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and some adjoining historic sites. It's a beautiful setting with a highly interesting museum and historic tours.
Mr. Watkins founded the mill in the mid 1800s. His farm was sufficient and supported his large family due to his entrepreneurial spirit. The mill was operational until just before the turn of the century when the machinery had slowly worn out and, in some cases, had become obsolete. In 1899 they locked the doors of the mill and walked away. As if they would eventually return, it remains the same today as it looked then!
The lovely old home, constructed of bricks they produced onsite, sits in the middle of a farm. During summer months, the staff dresses in period clothing to conduct special educational demonstrations which are offered in addition to those hosted throughout the year. We enjoyed touring the house which is filled with family and era pieces, including some china which belonged to the family.
Mr. Watkins founded the mill in the mid 1800s. His farm was sufficient and supported his large family due to his entrepreneurial spirit. The mill was operational until just before the turn of the century when the machinery had slowly worn out and, in some cases, had become obsolete. In 1899 they locked the doors of the mill and walked away. As if they would eventually return, it remains the same today as it looked then!
The lovely old home, constructed of bricks they produced onsite, sits in the middle of a farm. During summer months, the staff dresses in period clothing to conduct special educational demonstrations which are offered in addition to those hosted throughout the year. We enjoyed touring the house which is filled with family and era pieces, including some china which belonged to the family.
Walking the farmland was delightful!
Master gardeners maintain heirloom vegetables.
The old village church and schoolhouse sit about a mile off the beaten path and it was a pretty walk through the woods to get there.
This is Mount Vernon Church and it still has the original windows.
Franklin School, which is octagonal shaped, was used until 1930. Isn't is adorable?
Obviously, we would highly recommend a visit to this state park. MO parks are just beginning celebrations in honor of their 100th anniversary in 2017. It's interesting that our state parks are just a year behind the national parks!
After all of these pictures the past two days, I am sure you feel like this...
Have a good day!