About
The Kildow Mill marker stands on East Water Street in Oakland, near 9 East Water Street, at the bend in the Little Youghiogheny River where a water-powered grist mill operated for more than a century. Erected by the Town of Oakland, it is a good stop for anyone exploring the town's history on foot.
From Grist Mill to "Slab Town"
According to the marker, Murry Thayer built the first mill here in 1830 for Isaac McCarty, using the river's bend for water power. Thayer later ran it as a sawmill and built houses from its lumber, which gave the neighborhood the short-lived nickname "slab town." McCarty sold the land in 1855, later owners expanded the mill, and Peter Martin added a steam engine in 1877.
The Mill's Last Owner
The mill took its name from its final owner, Michael Kildow, and was known as Kildow's Mill. The building was torn down in the early 1950s, so today the marker and the river bend are what remain to see.
Around the Marker
The marker is part of the Town of Oakland's series of historical markers. The Garrett County Courthouse marker is about 500 feet away, and markers for the Oakland Hotel, the Gas House and the Third Street Bridge are within a few blocks, so it pairs well with a downtown history walk.
Take a moment at the riverbank to picture the mill wheel turning, then carry on to the other Oakland markers nearby.
Address
9 E Water St, Oakland, MD 21550