As you walk along the path, you’ll see a large, flat stone with a post sticking up through the center, topped by a two-ton upright stone. This is the Buhr Mill Stone, used in the 19th century to crush gold ore.
This millstone dates back to the 19th century and was used before machines powered by electricity. It worked by using man or animal power to crush gold ore. A person or animal would walk in a circle around the base, either pushing a pole or pulling it with a harness. As they moved, the upright stone would turn and crush the gold ore placed in the base, using the weight of the stone to grind it down. This work was typically performed by enslaved people, who made up the majority of the workforce in most major industries across the region.
Did you know? Between 1799 and 1860, North Carolina was actually called the “Golden State” because so much gold was found here! By 1830, gold mining was the second biggest industry in the state, right after farming, with an estimated $60 million worth of gold produced during that time.
Next, we’ll explore more of North Carolina’s natural history. Continue following the path until you see a green sign on your left. That’s where we’ll meet next!