Historical Photos

Lewisville’s Mill Changed Hands in 1925

A large wooden beam on the third floor of the mill shows the hand-painted inscription — “O.F.S. Sept. 3, 1910” — presumably made by a member of the James Pearson “J.P.” Sprinkle family to commemorate the opening of the mill in 1910. The Sprinkle family operated the mill as Fairview Roller Mills for 15 years. In 1925 my grandfather, Fielden Hale “F.H.” Jennings Sr., bought the mill and changed its name to Lewisville Roller Mills.
This view of Lewisville Roller Mills shows the Jennings home place in the background, c. 1926. Note the mill’s shed-roofed loading dock, the tall nine-over-nine sash windows and the paneled double-leaf doors providing access to the first and second floors.
Lewisville Roller Mills’ three-story structure is seen here from the vantage point of the Jennings home place, c. 1926.
Reportedly, the mill was initially powered by steam generator and was converted by the Jennings family to gasoline power and then to electric power by 1929. The mill’s early machinery was manufactured by Spout-Waldron Company of Muncie, Pennsylvania. (Photo c. 1926)
In the center of the above photo is a stack of 25-lb. bags of one or several of the mill’s products, such as corn meal or flour. My grandfather is standing in the shadows, fourth from the right, in coat and tie. (Photo date unknown)
My grandfather is pictured above in the driver’s seat of a company pickup truck loaded with product to be delivered to customers. (Photo date unknown)

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