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Home >Cooper Gristmill

Cooper Gristmill

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The surging Black River provided the power for the Cooper Grist Mill located in Washington Township, Morris County, NJ

Black River Flash™ movie
(warning: large file 21 meg)

The stretch of the Black River on which the Cooper Gristmill is situated is well-suited for the operation of water-powered mills. In the 1760's, Isaiah Younglove began a flour milling operation that lasted until 1788. Over the years, the mill went through several owners, with the present mill being built in 1826 by Nathan Cooper.

Historic Cooper Grist Mill located in Washington Township, Morris County, NJ Visitors to Cooper Gristmill can watch the massive water wheel power shafts and gears that turn 2,000-pound mill stones as the master miller - in period costume - explains the history of the mill and the vibrant community once called Milltown.

Also available are seasonal events and exhibits such as blacksmithing, stone dressing, machine demonstrations and the rare opportunity of seeing both mill stones being run at the same time.

Summer Hours
July 7 - August 29
Wednesday - Saturday: 10am-5pm
Sunday - Noon-5pm
Last tour starts at 3:30 pm
Closed: Mondays, Tuesdays, holidays

Park Features
  • Group Picnic Shelter
  • Historic Site Handicapped Accessible Accommodations
  • Trails
  • Visitors Center Handicapped Accessible Accommodations
  • Closed Nov - March
  • Pets Not Welcome
  • Restrooms Handicapped Accessible Accommodations
  • Cooper Gristmill waterwheel at Black River County Park.
Things To Do
  • Birthday Parties*
  • Commercial Filming*
  • Commercial Photography*
  • Fishing
  • Group Bus Tours*
  • Hiking
  • School Programs*
  • Snowshoeing
  • Special Events*
  • Summer Camp Programs*
  • Visitor Center Exhibits
  • Wedding Ceremonies*
  • Wedding Photography*
  • X-Country Skiing

*Requires permit/advanced scheduling



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