1780s-1920s
Water-Powered Sawmill
Historic sawmills powered by water wheels or turbines.
Specialist
Moderate - 100-200 board feet per hour (sash saw)
Colonial America
About This Technique
Water-powered sawmills were the technological marvel of their age. A water wheel or turbine provided power to a vertical reciprocating saw (up-down sash saw) or later, a circular saw.
Historical Context
Water-powered mills were the industrial backbone of Appalachian communities from the 1780s through the early 1900s. Every major creek had its mill.
Tools Required
Mill building, water wheel or turbine, saw carriage, saws
Advantages
Free power source, reliable operation, community hub
Considerations
Fixed location, water rights issues, seasonal water flow
Modern Relevance
Several historic mills still operate for demonstrations. The sash saw marks are prized for authentic restoration work.