description John Cable Mill Overview
The John Cable Mill is a historic, water-powered grist mill built in the 1870s by John P. Cable in the Cades Cove valley of Tennessee. Now preserved as a prominent historical stop within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the mill utilized an overshot water wheel fed by a channel of Forge Creek to grind corn and wheat for early settlers. Today, the site is maintained by the National Park Service and frequently operates as a working demonstration for park visitors.
help John Cable Mill FAQ
Where is the John Cable Mill located?
The John Cable Mill is located in Cades Cove, a broad valley within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee. It is one of the most frequently visited historical stops along the Cades Cove loop road.
When was the John Cable Mill built?
John P. Cable, a nephew of Cades Cove settler John Cable Sr., built the grist mill in the 1870s to serve the local farming community. It has since been preserved and restored by the National Park Service.
Can you buy cornmeal at the Cable Mill?
Yes, the mill remains operational and during certain seasons grinds corn that visitors can purchase. Demonstrations show how the mill's overshot water wheel and grinding stones function just as they did in the 19th century.
How does the water wheel at the Cable Mill work?
The mill uses an overshot water wheel, in which water flows over the top of the wheel from a wooden flume fed by Mill Creek and nearby springs. The weight of the water driving down powers the wheel, which turns the millstones inside.
explore Explore More
Similar to John Cable Mill
ui.x_see_all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
