Monday, October 12, 2020

Citizens for Darke County Parks Urges You to Vote FOR Issue 1


The Citizens for Darke County Parks would like to share some information with you regarding Bear’s Mill and the upcoming levy for the Darke County Park District.

Bear’s Mill is a National Historic Site on the registry list of the National Park Service. Established in 1849, the Mill has remained an authentic piece of agricultural history for nearly 175 years in Darke County. In fact, it is one of only three operating water-powered mills left in Ohio today.

Since the year it was built, the Mill has changed hands several times and in 1979, Bear’s Mill would find its way to Terry and Julie Clark who purchased the Mill and surrounding land. Thanks to the Clark’s endless efforts and continued support, Bear’s Mill has become a Darke County tourist attraction and an historic landmark. Today, the Mill property is owned by the Friends of Bear’s Mill, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that preserves the Mill’s historic significance. The Mill’s needs are now managed by a ten-person board of trustees.

Recently, the Friends of the Bears Mill, with assistance from Darke County Parks, have written a request to and met with our state legislators requesting capital improvement funds to repair the foundation of the Mill, which, if left unchecked, could be detrimental for the entire structure. The Friends have since created a collaborative effort to become a Darke County Park. When Issue 1 passes in November, the Friends of the Mill, 501C3 will, with the approval of the Ohio Public Works Commission, transfer Bear’s Mill to the Darke County Park District at ZERO cost. This ensures this National Historic Site and the surrounding 35 acres would belong to the people of Darke County; to be preserved and cherished by all future generations.

Join us in voting FOR Issue 1 on November 3.

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