2 min read

Bourdon Scribner’s Civil War bayonet with its tip bent into a hook.

HARRISON – The Historic Scribner’s Saw Mill and Homestead site will be open for tours on Saturday, August 20 from 1 – 4 p.m. Spend the afternoon touring the mill where you learn about the “Sash” saw used to cut lumber & how to make a barrel; view the exhibits in the Long and Exhibit Sheds; watch the blacksmith at the forge, and tour the Homestead. The barn & ice house are also open for self-guided tours.

Historic Note: On August 18, 1862, young 18-year-old Bourdon Scribner enlisted in Company H, 17th Maine Infantry to serve for three years. He was killed in action at the battle of Mine Run in VA from a Minnie bullet through the heart on November 27, 1963. It was said of him that he “was ever prompt, faithful, and diligent in the discharge of his duties, and was killed while gallantly facing the foe and nobly doing his duty.” It just so happened that Nov. 27 was the last Thursday of the month, making it Thanksgiving Day, when families gathered together to give thanks. His mother, who lived to be almost 101, received a pension of $8 a month. Of his possessions that were returned to his family was his bayonet with its tip bent into a hook.

At our Annual Meeting on Wednesday, August 24, member Peter Hammond will give a special presentation, “Little Unknown Facts about the Civil War.” His talk will connect facts of the war with 18-year-old Bourdon Scribner and the artifacts that we have of his service. The annual meeting will be held at the Homestead at 6:30 p.m. This is an open meeting, deserts will be served, and there will be a brief business meeting summarizing this past year’s achievements.

Scribner’s Mill is found south of Bolsters Mills on Jesse Mill Rd., crossing over the Crooked River Bridge into the Town of Harrison, the mill is on the left.  From Routes 35 or 117, follow the Maine State Directional signs found at Carsley or Maple Ridge Roads respectively.  For those following their GPS from Rte. 121, continue on Bolsters Mills Rd. to Jesse Mill Rd. instead of turning onto the Tamworth Rd.

A $5 donation for each adult is requested.  Check our website scribnersmill.org for more information about the mill.

Comments are not available on this story. Read more about why we allow commenting on some stories and not on others.