Charles Wheeler Sawmill
New Ipswich Historical Society
Zachariah Adams and John Breed built sawmills in Mill Village (now Smithville) as early as 1764. Though burned at least three times, they have always been at once rebuilt and constantly in use. The last owner of this sawmill was Charles Wheeler and sons.
I’m guessing it was located along the river on Hildreth Place in Smithville, New Ipswich. The next photo shows it in a state of disrepair.
Remnants
Nothing remains of the original buildings but pieces of machinery still exist along the river banks and poking up through a tangle of downed trees.
On this day - March 10, 1908
James Roger diary entry
10th (Tuesday)
Hard frost (22 degrees) fine day for town meeting which passed off very quickly and quietly. School Board after. I got 52 votes for member for 3 years but Mrs. Lucy Whitney got 78 and was elected. Hamish came at midday. Selectman E Chandler, L Jowders & W Preston Chief Engineer A E Chase who is also Chief of Police. Spaulding Committee the same.
Notes:
Hamish: probably a nephew. (Because his given name was also James, three James’s in the household might be confusing, thus the Scottish nickname ‘Hamish’)