MANSFIELD, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) – The town of Mansfield is planning to restore the historical accuracy of the town’s roller mill, by removing the water wheel that’s attached to it. The mill itself won’t change because it is powered by turbines.
Raccoon State Recreation Area officials plan to remove the wheel because they say it is damaged and no longer safe to the public. Officials said their goal is to provide a safe and enjoyable place to visit.
“Places like this here need to be preserved. So, our grandchildren and children can see this place. As this being a historical site, we need to put the money into it and save it,” area resident, Gary Rickert, said.
The plan is to have the water wheel removed by the start of the Mansfield Covered Bridge Festival, which starts in October.
“The mill is important to the community of Mansfield. It’s important to Parke County. It’s been here a long time, and so the story of the mill and the history of the mill over time is something we still want to be able to tell people about,” Ginger Murphy, Deputy Director for Stewardship of the IDNR Division of State Parks, said.
