Algonquin Park Historic Photos
Algonquin Park, previously known as Orange Mills, produced Black Powder from 1815 to 1901. The natural water supply provided power for the machinery needed to power the mills. The park provides a look back during this period of powder making and its role in the lives of the people of the community. On Saturday, June 16th, 2018, the Historical Society hosted a guided tour there to learn more about the history of the mill. The event was a huge success – we had to divide into 5 groups! Below are some background images and related information about the history of the mill.
1. Welcome to Orange Mills – ‘Dynamite and Blasting Supplies’ ahead
2. Black Powder Flasks, ca. 1880.
3. Water Power
Power was harnessed from the Quassaick Creek that ran from the nearby Orange Lake, through the Mills and into the Hudson River. A series of man-made ponds know as mill ponds and underground waterways known as mill races stored and diverted water through water turbines to run two rolling mills each.
4. Steady Flow of Power
5. Wheel Mill
Black powder mix was brought to the Wheel Mill where two large cast iron wheels eight feet tall and weighing 10 tons rotating on a cast iron tray would grind the mix similar to a grist mill.