Butte Creek Mill 150th Anniversary
The Butte Creek Mill celebrated its 150th anniversary with an "open house celebration" on October 22, 2022. The venerable 19th grist mill opened its doors to the public for the first time since it was almost completely destroyed in a fiery conflagration nearly seven years ago on Christmas Day. The citizens of Eagle Point showed up in droves to prove beyond all doubt that they have missed shopping at their beloved mill. It's estimated that thousands of people showed up to commemorate the Butte Creek Mill's sesquicentennial red-letter day, despite the significant drop in temperature compared to just days before, and the intermittent rainfall.
Bob Russell, former Eagle Point mayor and who owned the Butte Creek Mill in 2015 vowed to rebuild the mill exactly the way it was before the fire. A foundation was created to oversee construction of the mill and to raise funds for that purpose. The Eagle Point community launched a massive grassroots campaign to rebuild the Butte Creek mill via donations from the citizens of town, as well as receive grants from local businesses and charitable organizations. Famous Hollywood actor/musician Jim Belushi even helped to raise money for the rebuild effort by performing benefit concerts at his Eagle Point ranch.
The Butte Creek Mill Foundation needs to raise about 3.1 million dollars to reach their financial goal. So far, more than two million dollars resides in their coffers. The Country store is open for business, and it is currently being staffed by volunteers. The proceeds from goods sold from the mill as well as money received from tourism should help close the one-million-dollar gap that remains before construction on the mill can finally finish.
The revelry included emotionally charged performances from bandmembers of the District 4 Oregon Old Time Fiddler Association. Additionally, there were samples of cookies and breads available that were made from flour produced by the Butte Creek Mill.
The Butte Creek Mill has the retained its incomparable quality of being perpetually imposing, yet charming. It looks just the way it did in 1872, albeit with modern improvements such as a fire suppression system and ADA access. Even though most of the mill's structure is brand new, it is still listed as a national historical landmark, having retained its listing on the National Register of Historical Places. This means that the Butte Creek Mill will stand forever. No one can tear it down and build a Starbucks someday.
The heart of Eagle Point is beating again. The Butte Creek Mill is once again a boon to the Eagle Point community. This time, its success will surpass any achievements that have come before in its 150-year history. The Butte Creek Mill is an embodiment of hard work, sacrifice, and most importantly, love. After all, if it wasn't for the community's involvement, the "Capital of Eagle Point" would have literally ended up on the ash heap of history. We can now guarantee that The Butte Creek Mill will endure for posterity.