Existing comment:
The Powder Yard:
This site was once part of the largest manufactury of black powder in the United States. The Dupont Company built this second set of mills on the Hagley property, purchased in 1813, when the original 1803 mills operating upstream could no longer meet the increasing demand for powder. The operation was expanded again in 1837 with a third set of mills, built about a half-mile downstream from the Museum entrance.
At the height of production in the Hagley Yard, thirty-three mills were in operation. Today, some mills have been restored to operating condition, some adapted for exhibits and museum activities, and others to prevent further deterioration.
The complete powder making process is illustrated by dioramas and working models in the Millwright Shop. |