UWF Historic Trust hosts Arcadia Mill grand re-opening

Today, the University of West Florida Historic Trust hosted the grand re-opening of the 37-acre Arcadia Mill Archeological Site. The event showcased Arcadia’s newly constructed bridge and boardwalk site tours; children’s activities including candle dipping, face painting and crafts; featured demonstrators such as the FloraBama Cut-Ups wood carving group; and numerous vendors including the Florida Public Archaeology Network, UWF Alumni Association, Hand Popped Kettle Corn and Carmelinas On The Go food vendor.

Arcadia’s site grounds have been closed to the public since September 2014 as a result of construction for a new ADA-compliant bridge over Pond Creek and an associated boardwalk that connects to the nature trails. The new bridge, replacing a previously existing wooden swing bridge, will allow for increased safety and accessibility.

The Arcadia Mill Archaeological Site, located in in Milton, Florida, represents the largest 19th-century water-powered industrial complex in Northwest Florida. This site was the location of a multi-faceted operation that included a water-powered sawmill, a lumber mill with planning and lathing machines, gristmill, bucket and pail factory, shingle mill, cotton textile mill and even an experimental silk cultivation operation.

Arcadia Mill, the Visitor Center and Museum are free and open to the public Tuesday – Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with the last tour leaving at 3:15 p.m. School and group tours are also available.

For additional information, visit http://historicpensacola.org/arcadia.cfm.