mechanic falls – The family that runs Bryant Energy has purchased the former Marcal Paper Mill, a community landmark.

Jay Bryant confirmed the deal Thursday, but declined to discuss plans for the sprawling building that most recently housed the Great Northern Recycling plant.

Bryant said the family will consider uses for the mill over the winter and will likely announce plans sometime next spring.

Parts of the structure were scorched in a March 2003 fire when a Great Northern baling machine ignited cardboard. The fire burned for several hours as about 60 firefighters from Mechanic Falls and surrounding communities battled the blaze.

Bryant Energy supplies heating oil and kerosene to customers here and in Poland and Minot. The Bryant family also operates a gift shop in the center of town.