Some call the Blue Ridge Parkway's Mabry Mill "the most photographed structure in the national park system," but the building had fallen into disrepair in recent years.
Efforts to change that continue this summer with a new project to replace the mill's shake roof. The work is being done with an emphasis on historical accuracy, according to the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, which is contributing $100,000 to the repairs. Experts from Cumberland Mountain Craftsman based in Harrogate, Tennessee, made 6,000 authentic white oak shakes, which are wooden shingles crafted from split logs. The National Park Service’s Historic Preservation Training Center will install them.
Mabry Mill, located at milepost 176 on the parkway, dates back to the early 1900s. It and surrounding buildings at the site were mostly built by pioneers Ed and Lizzie Mabry, who created a complex water system with flumes, ditches, and sluices. Construction of the Blue Ridge Parkway started in 1935 and the National Park Service acquired the mill in 1938.
“The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation's Community of Stewards has a long-standing commitment to preserving Mabry Mill,” Kevin Brandt, vice president of engagement for the foundation, said in a news release. “There are a number of critical needs at this historic site, which can be addressed by leveraging donor support in conjunction with our partnership with the National Park Service. We look forward to continuing to support the preservation of this treasured site.”
Scaffolding will surround the mill and limit access during the project. Trails and other buildings at the site will remain accessible, including the store. Visitors to Mabry Mill can also enjoy free summer concerts from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on the first and third Sunday of each month.
Other recent projects by the foundation at Mabry Mill included rebuilding the water wheel and wooden flume.
Much of the Blue Ridge Parkway was devastated by Helene last year. The mill is located along the Virginia stretch of the parkway, which is fully reopened. Miles of the parkway remain closed in North Carolina with no specific date for completion of repairs.
Stories about:
Story Categories:
A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.
Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:
- Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
- Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
- Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
- North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
- Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
- Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
- Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.
National parks and their natural resources belong to you. The National Parks Traveler works to ensure you know how these essential places are being cared for.
Sign Up For Our Weekly Newsletter
Unsubscribe at any time.
INN Member
The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.
Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.
Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.
You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.
