Morris Parks: Industrial Crafts Day Returns to Cooper Gristmill

Published on August 09, 2018

Chester Township Mill Holds Demonstrations and Hands-On Learning

Discover the art and science of early industrial crafting at Industrial Crafts Day at Cooper Gristmill in Chester Township on Saturday, August 25 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Enjoy hands-on activities and demonstrations led by a blacksmith, tinsmith, tin piercers, weavers, and spinners. Learn the art of weaving and spinning, and create a tin-pierced craft to take home. Crafters will have handmade items available for purchase as well.

Suggested donations for this event are $3 for adults, $2 for seniors (65+), and $1 for children (ages 4 - 16). Children under age 4 are admitted FREE. For more information and directions to Cooper Gristmill, please call 908.879.5463, or visit morrisparks.net.

The Cooper Gristmill in Chester is one of the last of its kind in New Jersey, which has earned it a spot on the State and National Registers of Historic Places. Costumed actors bring centuries of history to life by telling the story of the mill during tours and special events. The mill, with its water wheel, power shafts, gears and 2,000-pound millstone, is a living example of the state's economic transition from agriculture to industry.

Nathan Cooper built this particular gristmill in 1826, but the nearby Black River has been providing power to mill flour since the 1760s. The scenic property is set on a 14-acre park near the river, which makes The Cooper Gristmill a perfect spot for picnics and hiking, as well.

  • Guided tours of the mill with a master miller are 45 minutes long.
  • The mill sells its own organic stone-ground flour and cornmeal, created the old fashioned way.
  • The 14-acre park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, except during hunting season.

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The Morris County Park Commission features one of the region's best park systems in the state of New Jersey. It currently protects and maintains 19,653 acres at 38 distinct sites plus offers a year-round calendar of events and activities for all to enjoy.

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