For nearly three centuries, the Mill at Anselma has stood as a living symbol of American ingenuity, craftsmanship, and community. Unlike many historic sites, our mill is not just preserved. It still runs. Its original machinery continues to grind grain today, just as it did generations ago.
Keeping a working historic mill alive comes with extraordinary responsibility and significant cost.
Why We’re Fundraising
In 2025, the Mill at Anselma faced significant, unexpected maintenance expenses to protect and preserve its historic milling machinery. These were not cosmetic upgrades. They were essential repairs required to keep the mill operational and historically accurate.
To do this work properly, we had to:
- Bring in a specialized millwright engineer from Kentucky, one of the few experts in the country qualified to work on historic milling equipment
- Commission custom-fabricated parts to maintain historical authenticity
- Address urgent mechanical wear that, if left untreated, could have permanently damaged original components
While we were fortunate to receive grant funding for major capital projects such as roof replacement, lighting, and new signage, grant funding does not cover ongoing operational and mechanical maintenance. As a result, the mill is now carrying a $30,000+ maintenance bill that must be covered to keep the machinery running safely and correctly.
Why This Moment Matters
We are also preparing for a once-in-a-generation milestone: America’s 250th anniversary in 2026.
The Mill at Anselma is uniquely positioned to play a vital role in this historic celebration. It is not a static exhibit. It is a fully functioning colonial-era mill where visitors can experience history in motion.
To welcome the public in 2026, we must:
- Stabilize and maintain all milling equipment
- Ensure safe, reliable operation for demonstrations and educational programming
- Protect original machinery for future generations
This campaign will help us cover urgent maintenance costs and ensure the mill is ready to serve as a living educational site during America’s 250th.
Our Goal
Our fundraising goal is $100,000, which will allow us to:
- Cover outstanding maintenance expenses
- Build a modest operational buffer for future mechanical needs
- Keep the mill running during a critical historic year
Every contribution, large or small, directly supports the preservation and operation of this irreplaceable site.
Who We Are
The Mill at Anselma Preservation and Educational Trust is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations are tax-deductible, and we proudly operate as stewards of this nationally significant historic resource.
How You Can Help
- Donate if you are able
- Share this campaign with friends, family, and history lovers
- Help spread the word as we prepare for America’s 250th
By supporting this campaign, you are helping ensure that future generations can see, hear, and experience history. Not behind glass, but in motion.
Thank you for helping keep the Mill at Anselma running.
Legal Disclosure
The Mill at Anselma Preservation and Educational Trust, Inc. is a Pennsylvania-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. Registration does not imply endorsement.
Organizer
THE MILL AT ANSELMA PRESERVATION AND EDUCATIONAL TRUST INC (The Mill at Anselma)
Beneficiary