Winter 2014

Chamberlin Mill, Inc. acquires mill site from The Nature Conservancy.

The March 27, 2014 property transfer represents the culmination of several years of effort by The Nature Conservancy, owner of the property since 2008, and Chamberlin Mill, Inc., the Woodstock Historical Society, Woodstock Historic Properties Commission, and over fifty other agencies and individuals to find a way to save this rare 19th century sawmill for the benefit of the region.

Judy Walberg, Woodstock Town Clerk, records the deed transferring ownership of Chamberlin Mill from The Nature Conservancy (TNC) to Chamberlin Mill, Inc.  Left to right: Walberg; Richard Roberts, Jean McClellan and Anthony Reed, representing Chamberlin Mill; and Sarah Pellegrino, representing TNC. 

The 0.14 acre mill site is located at the northeast corner of The Nature Conservancy’s 98-acre Still River Preserve. The Preserve protects the headwaters of the Still River, a tributary of the important Natchaug, Shetucket, and Thames River watershed. While The Nature Conservancy does not itself engage in restoring historic structures, it recognized the significance of Chamberlin Mill, and its potential benefits to the public. Holly Drinkuth of the Conservancy worked diligently to gain local support for the mill. “I’m so grateful for the tireless dedication of the Mill’s many devoted volunteers for their commitment to the historic integrity of Woodstock. Their vision for the Chamberlin Mill has carried this project through to completion. I’m delighted the character and agricultural tradition of Old Turnpike Road will remain the cornerstone of the Conservancy’s Still River Preserve!” said Drinkuth, Director of Outreach and Watershed Programs for The Nature Conservancy.

For Chamberlin Mill Inc., the property transfer is an exciting moment, making it possible to move forward with plans to stabilize and rehabilitate the mill for the enjoyment of future generations.  

Pomfret's January Seniors Luncheon provided a wonderfully informal and receptive setting for Andy Quigley and Jean McClellan to share a PowerPoint presentation on Chamberlin Mill's history and preservation efforts.