ARCOLA MILLS HISTORIC FOUNDATION

The Arcola Mills Historic Foundation, commonly known as Arcola Mills, was founded in 1992. Arcola Mills is located six miles north of Stillwater, Minnesota, and encompasses 50 acres of woodland and streams along a half-mile of the National Wild and Scenic St. Croix River. On the property stands one of the oldest timber frame homes in Minnesota: a grand, Greek revival-style mansion built in 1847 that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Eight cottages and the remains of a lumbering-era sawmill are nestled along the shore. Arcola Mills is perhaps best known for its role in the region’s lumbering era, when the Mower brothers (John and Martin) operated a major sawmill on the location. Nearly 100 years later, Arcola Mills became the private retreat for Stillwater residents Dr. Henry and Katharine Van Meier. During the ensuing 50 years, the Van Meiers installed cottages around the property. They invited artists, writers, family, friends and students to visit and enjoy the pristine environment as a place for learning, reflection and creative expression. As a legacy to the community, the Van Meiers asked that the land, mansion and cottages be offered as a retreat and museum for public enjoyment. Per Katharine’s instructions, Arcola Mills was incorporated as a nonprofit organization in 1992. Renovation efforts on the house and property began in 1999, with energetic volunteers, a small nest egg in the bank and a large building with exciting potential. We have completed Phase I of renovation of the Mower/VanMeier home. Care has been taken to use green and sustainable practices in the renovation. More than $1.5 million was raised to complete this first phase of restoration. We have worked to establish a perpetual Metro Greenways Conservation easement for 47 of the 55 acres under Arcola’s stewardship. This agreement between Arcola Mills, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Washington County protects key natural features and preserves the site’s stunning setting. The agreement requires Arcola to maintain environmental quality and to complete ecological restoration that improves soil conservation and water quality, wildlife habitat and biodiversity. This is a substantial benefit to the entire region and leaves a lasting legacy. Arcola also protects 3000 feet of shoreline as part of the NPS St. Croix National Wild & Scenic River We envision that by 2015, Arcola Mills will be a fully functioning retreat and education center, attracting local, national and international participants with educational offerings that celebrate the rich intersection of the arts, history, the environment and the human spirit.

Images courtesy of Karen Eckman.