MILLS, STILLS, AND MORE

Indian Creek Distillery, Staley Mill, and Bear's Mill will all participate in a collaborate fund-raising event called "Mills and Stills" on Saturday, May 18th.

In celebration of Historic Preservation Month, historic sites Bear's Mill and Staley Mill Farm and Distillery are hosting a collaborative fund-raising event on Saturday, May 4 and Saturday, May 18. “Mills and Stills” will feature informational tours of both sites plus whiskey tastings, food and music; additionally, the Gallery at Bear's Mill will be exhibiting watercolors of Staley Mill Farm painted by the late Roger Haas plus new pottery that recalls the art of the whiskey vessel. A map outlining the scenic route between the two venues is included in the ticket price. Hours for the event are from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. both evenings.

At Bear's Mill, event attendees will be invited to enjoy docent-led tours of the fully operational mill, as well as grinding demonstrations illustrating how grain has been ground on the historic French buhr stones ever since the Mill's founding in 1849. On May 4, entertainment will be provided by “Brian K and the Vixen,” a duo comprised of two award-winning musicians, Brian Keith Wallen on guitar and vocals, and Alexis Klosinski on drums. Bluegrass/folk quartet “Ludlow” will perform on May 18; ensemble members are Jeff Rutledge picking the mandolin, Jim Martinson on guitar, Peter Miklos playing dobro and guitar, and Greg Kambitch on banjo, guitar, penny whistle and harmonica. Their tight vocal harmonies have entertained Miami Valley audiences for several decades.


“The Art of the Whiskey Vessel” will display the work of local potters Julie Clark, Dionne Fleming, Rita Wiley and Loretta Wray who have crafted their unique interpretations of whiskey flasks, jugs, bottles, decanters, canteens, shot glasses, and whiskey cups. The watercolors by renowned Tipp City artist Roger Haas on display at Bear's Mill are from the collection of Missy Duer, a descendant of the founders of Staley Farm, who with her husband Joe, now operates Staley Mill Farm and Indian Creek Distillery.

Staley Mill, Ohio's oldest standing grist mill, will also be open for tours during the “Mills and Stills” event. Additionally, Indian Creek Distillery, a new facility utilizing the original pot stills of the original 1820 distillery known throughout the frontier for its storied rye whiskey, will offer tours and tastings throughout both evenings. These amazing examples of early American industry reflect the treasured history and heritage resonating at Staley Mill Farm.

A mix of sweet and savory appetizers will be available at both sites. Mini-sandwiches, crudites with dip, gourmet cheese and crackers, and finger savories including foccacia, spinach squares, plus fresh fruit and sweets are included in the diverse menu.

Tickets for “Mills and Stills” are $35, and are available at Bear's Mill and Staley Mill Farm's Indian Creek Distillery. Deadline for purchasing tickets for the May 4 event is April 27; tickets for May 18 will remain available until May 11.

Bear's Mill is located at 6450 Arcanum-Bear's Mill Road, Greenville; Staley Mill Farm and Distillery's address is 7095 Staley Road, New Carlisle. For more information, contact Bear's Mill at 937-548-5112 or Staley Mill Farm and Distillery at 937-846-1443.