The Brainerd Mill and the Tellico Mills: The Development of Water-Milling in the East Tennessee Valley

Author

Loretta Ettien Lautzenheiser, University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Date of Award

6-1986

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Major

Anthropology

Major Professor

Charles H. Faulkner

Committee Members

Jeff Chapman, Benita J. Howell

Abstract

This study documents the archaeological and historical investigations of four water-powered mills in the eastern Tennessee Valley. This study points out the value of both archaeological and archival material to obtain a fuller picture of the function of these mills, and of their economic and social roles.

A review of the development of water power technology is included in this study. A knowledge of this technology is necessary to help in the formulation of clear research designs when investigating water powered mills.

The recovery of a large amount of power-transmission related artifacts helps to develop a clearer picture of milling practices in the region. An unusual turbine recovered from the Brainerd Mill has raised questions about availability and adaptations of state-of-the-art technology in frontier settlements.

Recommended Citation

Lautzenheiser, Loretta Ettien, "The Brainerd Mill and the Tellico Mills: The Development of Water-Milling in the East Tennessee Valley. " Master's Thesis, University of Tennessee, 1986.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_gradthes/4154