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Area Resident Takes Over From Siegfrieds
The phrase “take your turn” is an old milling term that refers to the next person waiting at the mill to have their grain ground by the turning of the millstones.
Today in Raphine, a new owner and miller will be taking their turn at the helm of historic Wade’s Mill (c. 1750), Virginia’s oldest operating grist mill.
John and Karen Siegfried bought Wade’s Mill in July 2016, and for the next several years, the Siegfrieds focused their energy and resources on growing the business and developing the property. John Siegfried’s first task was to get all the historic milling equipment back in place and operational, which he now runs for demonstration purposes and gives free tours on weekend mornings. The Siegfrieds then updated and furnished the c. 1820-1840s creek side log cabin for short-term rental, created gardens with picnic areas and walking paths along Otts Creek, and painted and updated the c. 1850s Miller’s House.
Their most recent project was the renovation of the former Patterson Mill, which had been relocated to the property from Hays Creek in 1906 as a barn, to create an events venue. In addition to be being available to rent for private events, the Siegfrieds have made the barn and attached pavilion available for community events, such as the annual Brownsburg Community Association picnic, a joint Bethesda Presbyterian Church–New Providence Church memorial service and several local non-profit fundraisers. The barn and pavilion also house the “tasting room” and bands for the annual Wade’s Mill Apple Butter Festival in October.
And then about 18 months ago, the Siegfrieds reached what they thought was a good transition point. “We decided that someone with a fresh vision and new energy would be able to take full advantage of the opportunities we had created. Plus milling is a physical business and John wasn’t getting any younger,” Karen said.
Given the unique nature of the business, the Siegfrieds started a considered process of looking for a new owner, wanting to make sure it was the right fit.
So it is with great pleasure, they say, that they are able to announce that from today, April Anderson, through her business Cele(brau)tory (T) ales, will be the new owner, miller and custodian of Wade’s Mill.
Anderson is a Shenandoah Valley native, born and raised in Timberville, and has resided in Rockbridge County for the last 12 years. She started her career in Napa Valley, Calif., working under multiple chefs and hospitality executives, where she was initially exposed to the rising Northern California craft beverage movement. She has spent over 20 years in the craft beer industry. Most recently she has been involved with helping set up and assist with brewing at Rockbridge Vineyard and Brewery.
She plans to continue business as usual at Wade’s Mill while expanding the events side of the portfolio. Future plans include opening an inn in the Miller’s House.
Over the past several months, Anderson has been working with John Sigfried to learn the craft of milling. As part of the transition, he will continue to work with Anderson for the next few months.
The Siegfrieds aren’t going anywhere and will continue to live just up the hill from the Mill.
For her part, April is honored to be the new caretaker of Wade’s Mill. “I feel blessed to have this opportunity to carry on Wade’s Mill historic role in Rockbridge County. I’m so glad it’s now my turn.”
Wade’s Mill will open for the 2024 season on April 6.
