French Millstones

In the early nineteenth century, mills were ubiquitous, making possible dozens of indispensable items--from the bread served at every meal to the boards used to construct houses and other buildings. Because millstones went through so much daily wear and tear, only certain types of rock formations were suitable for millstone quarries, though they were often difficult to locate and access. This book provides an archaeological and historical study of six millstone quarries in Powell County, Kentucky. While the best-known conglomerate millstone quarries were in New York, Virginia, and Pennsylvania, Powell County was an important millstone producer for Kentucky, and the quarries there are well-preserved and documented. It features dozens of photographs and tables, two maps, and seven appendices.

"Despite a long history of geologic investigations in the Ozarks, new studies and analyses continue to elucidate our understanding of the complex interconnection between the basement, extensive carbonate platforms, structural overprinting, mineralization, karstification, and hydrology. This guidebook volume highlights a few of these aspects as well as the connection to culture, history, and economic development of the Ozarks region."--Publisher's description.

This book examines the evolution of mills - whether powered by water, wind, animals or humans - during an important era of English history. It focuses not only on the structures themselves, but also on the people who acted as entrepreneurs, workers, and customers for the industry. Together they created one of the most recognizable and enduring features of medieval society.