Having a natural liking to historical times, places, structures, antiques, and even stories, I chose to pursue an intern position in Archaeology. Given that opportunity, and returning as a former 2015 VetsWork Intern, I am now on the Mark Twain National Forest Region 9 in Southeast Missouri. There are several pre-historic and historic sites located on the 11 point Ranger District in which I work. One that I have recently visited for the first time is Greer Mill.

Greer Mill was built by Samuel Greer of Oregon County, MO in 1899 with his partner, George Mainprize. The mill sits less than 1 mile uphill from Greer Spring. With a system of cables and pulleys, the mill gave farmers access to grain processing and rural populations access to flour. Mill operations ended in 1920, possibly the result of supplies coming in by railroad.

Today, Greer Mill still stands and has been a prime candidate for a Passport In Time (PIT) project. HistoriCorps, Friends of the 11 Point, and the neighboring Amish community have partnered with the Mark Twain National Forest engaging in these PIT projects and rehabilitation efforts. Reconstruction on structural log beams, rebuilding west end elevation foundation, new siding, new roof, interior bent stabilization, and minor repairs of stairs and infill window openings are just a few.

This year, there is another PIT Project I will be assisting on. Plans include: debris clean up, floor replacement, artifact collection/documentation, and window preservation.   Eventually, the Mark Twain would like to have Greer Mill reopened to the public in restored condition, machines and equipment for the time period on display, and interpretive signs.