Old Dominion Preservation was founded with its primary purpose to be seeing to the welfare of the 245 year old Andrew Zirkle Grist Mill in Forestville, VA. This mill, which was built by ancestors of the current owners, is a pristine example grist and roller milling technology.

In operation for 180 years, this mill contains evidence of the three era's in milling, stone milling, Oliver Evans automation and roller milling. Since going out of operation in the 1940's, the mill fell into disrepair and was nearly lost to the ravages of neglect.

Estimates for repairs to place the mill into actual operation total $400,000 - $600,000. The Old Dominion Preservation Foundation is seeking to raise $2 million over the next 2 to 5 years to repair the mill, place it into operation, fund site improvements, hire staff and have it open on a daily basis to the public.

Preservation Programs

The Foundation is developing programs aimed at encouraging and furthering proactive historic preservation initiatives by local and county governments. These programs are aimed at identifying historic assets, incorporating their welfare into the comprehensive planning and property development process, plus integrating these historic properties into educational and tourism efforts.

Taking a new direction in Historic Preservation, the Foundation is planning a campaign to encourage the Commonwealth of Virginia to require historic preservation practices by property owners, speculators and developers. This campaign will include changes in the licensing requirements of developers, state sponsored courses in historic preservation principles and promotion of integrating historic preservation into the entire planning process.