Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park 3369 Saint Helena Highway, St. Helena, CA 94574
About the Business
Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park, located at 3369 Saint Helena Highway in St. Helena, California, offers visitors a glimpse into Californians' rural heritage. This park, which is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00am to 4:00pm, features activities such as hiking, historical tours, and educational activities. Admission fees are $8 for adults, $3 for children aged 6-17, and free for children under 6.
The park showcases the functioning mill, the first church founded in the Napa Valley, and the historic Pioneer Cemetery. The mill, built in 1846 by Dr. Edward Turner Bale, was a central part of life in the area as settlers brought their grain to be milled into meal or flour. Visitors can witness milling demonstrations, special events, and educational activities at the park.
The Bale Grist Mill is one of the few remaining mills of its kind in the U.S. and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The park is ADA accessible and offers amenities such as parking, restrooms, and drinking water. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails and learn about the history of the region through tours and special events.
The park recently completed a restoration of the historic water wheel, which drives the mill stones and other equipment. This restoration project was made possible by the support of the Napa Valley State Parks Association and individual donors. Visitors can also explore the History Trail, a 2.4 mile round trip trail that connects to Bothe Napa Valley State Park.
For those unable to visit in person, the park offers virtual tours and educational videos. School tours are available on weekdays with advance reservations. To learn more about field trips or school tours, email [email protected]. Visit Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park to experience a piece of California's rural history.
Photos
Location & Phone number
3369 St Helena Hwy, St Helena, CA 94574, United States
Reviews
"First time here and enjoyed ourselves. A working Mill to grind up corn and wheat to make flour. Loved learning how the mill was built and the interesting history. Worth a drive. The trails make a loop, pack a lunch and enjoy."
"Best $8 spent. Amazing little tour of the mill. Would recommend to check it out and see the history of the mill."
"If you are in the Napa area make sure and set aside some time to explore and take a tour of this historical gem! The two staff members (Martin and didn't catch her name but she is a pastry maker/Bothe campground host) were really kind even though we came during lunch time. They still squeezed us in for a tour and did a wonderful job explaining the history + mechanics of this mill. Very affordable and well maintained. Thank you!!"
"The mill was established in 1846 by Dr. Edward Turner Bale on property in Rancho Carne Humana land grant. Bale lived near the site until his death in 1849. The gristmill and granary were built with local materials, Douglas firs and coast redwoods. Some timbers were cut to length with the bark left on, while others were roughed out with hand tools. The timbers were notched and held in place with wooden pegs as well as nails and screws. The foundation of the structure is native stone. The mill was powered by a waterwheel, with water diverted from Mill Creek nearby. A ditch carried the water from a millpond to a wooden flume, which brought the water to the top of the waterwheel. The first wheel did not provide enough power during dry summers and was replaced by a larger one, similar to the one at the mill today. The mill was once the center of social activity as Napa Valley settlers gathered to have their corn and wheat ground into meal or flour."
"The mill is a must see...8:30 hike and 9:00 tour through the mill that lasts 15 to 60 minutes (docents are there on Milling Weekends; check postings). Great story telling lots of fun and educational souvenirs are available. The history that happened on the spot is incredible and connects to so many other significant properties in the valley."
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