Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site (Lawson)

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Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site and its collection

Source

Watkins Mill, located in Lawson, Missouri, is a well-preserved woolen mill that dates back to the mid-19th century. It is protected as the Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site, which not only preserves the mill itself but also its machinery and business records. This site offers a unique glimpse into the industrial history of the United States.

The First Planned Community

The Watkins Mill was built between 1859 and 1860 by Waltus L. Watkins. In addition to the mill, Watkins also established an 80-acre livestock farm and built housing for the mill workers, effectively creating one of the first planned communities in North America. This historical site provides a unique insight into the early development of planned communities in the region.

Recreational Activities at the Park

The Watkins Mill State Park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors. The park features 96 campsites, a 100-acre lake that supports fishing, a large sand swimming beach, and trails for bicycling, walking, and horseback riding. These amenities make the park a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking for a fun and educational outing.

Images of Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site

Visitor information Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site

Opening hours

Monday	9:30 – 17:00
Tuesday	9:30 – 17:00
Wednesday	9:30 – 17:00
Thursday	9:30 – 17:00
Friday	9:30 – 17:00
Saturday	9:30 – 17:00
Sunday	10:30 – 16:00

Admission

0+

Free

Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site.

Location & Map

26600 Park Road North, Lawson

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site have been found.

Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site Reviews

Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site has 1 rating.

Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site offers visitors a glimpse into 19th-century textile production and rural life in Missouri. The site features a well-preserved woolen mill and the Watkins family home, both of which provide educational experiences for history enthusiasts. Visitors appreciate the informative guided tours that explain the mill's operations and the family's history. The park's natural beauty, with its hiking trails and fishing opportunities at the lake, adds to the overall experience. Some reviewers note that the site may have limited appeal for those not interested in industrial history or period architecture. The museum's artifacts and displays are generally well-maintained, though a few visitors mention that some areas could benefit from updates or additional interpretive materials. Despite these minor drawbacks, most visitors find the combination of historical significance and outdoor recreation makes for an enjoyable and educational outing.

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Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site