HARRISON — The next tour of the Scribner’s Sawmill and Homestead will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 6.

The sawmill, built in 1847, housed an Up and Down Sash saw to cut dimension lumber, and machinery to manufacture clapboards, shingles and lathe, all the materials needed to construct a house at the time.

At the turn of the 20th century Scribner’s Mill also manufactured barrels for the local apple industry, then turned to making ammunition boxes for the war effort during World War II.

Jesse Scribner, who operated the mill for 78 years, was known locally for his ability to provide any wood product requested by his customers.

The Homestead, built in 1849, was the home for five generations of the Scribner family and is interpreted as it appeared in the 1920s when it was remodeled and electricity, generated at the mill, was installed. The barn holds a large collection of antique mill equipment.

This site has been found to be the last remaining mid-19th century rural, family-owned industry to manufacture wood products still intact in the U.S. when water power fueled the economy in Maine.

Entrance is free; however, donations are welcome and are used for the continued restoration of the site. For more information or to schedule a private tour, call 583-mill (6455). The next scheduled tour will be on Saturday, July 20.

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