Clifton Mill

Historic Clifton Mill is one of the largest water powered grist mills still in existence. The first mill at this site was built in 1802 by Owen Davis, a Revolutionary War soldier and frontiersman miller. The mill was built in this location to take advantage of the natural power of the concentrated water funneled into the gorge. Owen Davis and his son-in-law, General Benjamin Whiteman also built a saw mill and a distillery. Soon a village known as Davis Mills sprang up around the mills. The Little Miami River powered five other mills that were built within a mile of Clifton Mill; a woolen mill, saw mill, paper mill, barrel mill and another grist mill. Clifton Mill is the only one still standing. Come visit the mill in person. It will be an enjoyable and educational experience you will long remember. During Spring and Summer you can tour the inner workings of the mill to see first hand one of Americas earliest industries. At one time there were approximately 100,000 mills in this country. Now there are less than 100 still in their original operating condition. On display inside Clifton Mill is a collection of over 300 flour bags from mills around the country. Many of these bags are over 100 years old and are beautiful, colorful examples of some of America's first advertising practices. The Millrace Restaurant offers the atmosphere of yesteryear. Sit back and relax to the gentle sounds of the old mill wheel and the soft rhythm of the water gently cascading over the falls. Gaze out at some of the country's most beautiful natural scenery, Clifton Gorge and the Little Miami River. After you have enjoyed the great food and spectacular view, browse through our charming Gift Shop. The shop is decorated with antiques and oddities from a bygone era. Besides our flour products you will find jams, jellies, unique gift ideas, candles, cards, cookware, candy and more. For over 20 years Clifton Mill has celebrated the Christmas season in a very special way. Their light display, featured in Midwest Living and Ohio Magazine, is one of the country's finest with over 3.5 million lights illuminating the mill, the gorge, the riverbanks, trees and bridges. There is even a 100 foot "waterfall" of twinkling lights. The flip of one switch turns all the lights on at once transforming night into a fantastical winter wonderland which includes a Miniature Village, a Santa Claus Museum and a spectacular synchronized lights and music show that features the old Covered Bridge. Every night until the night before Christmas Eve you can peek into Santa's Workshop to see a live Santa at work and then, every 15 minutes or so, watch him check his list and go up the chimney to load his sleigh.