155-Year-Old Mill in Virginia Complete With Original Wheel and Waterfall Views Hits the Market for $668K

A Virginia water mill that was turned into a beautiful three-bedroom residence has hit the market for $668,000—complete with its original wheel and a picturesque waterfall vistas.

Moffatts Creek Mill in Middlebrook, VA, which was transformed into a private residence in 1929, was built in 1870, when it was known as Smiley's Mill after Thomas Smiley, owner of the Roller Mills that was later named Lucas Mill.

The historic Shenandoah Valley structure sustained a fire in the 1920s and was rebuilt at the turn of that decade, when it was first used as a home.

In the years since, the property has been meticulously maintained, honoring its legacy as a working water mill while equipping the home with plenty of modern features.

"It has a spectacular location right on the water," said listing agent Myra R. Beams of REAL BROKER LLC. "There is a stone wall that would direct the water off the creek to run the mill."

The 3.48-acre property last traded hands in November 1997 for $150,000, and the current owners have poured a significant amount of time and energy into improving the home.

"The sellers have done a lot of improvements over the years," Beams said. "There is a new slate roof and they put in an alternative septic system that uses chlorine.

"They also had to dig 400 feet for a well. The sellers have done a tremendous amount of work over the years to make it a really livable property. It has been a labor of love."

While the sellers have used the property as a secondary residence, Beams believes the getaway also has several other potential uses—with its quirky features making it perfect for a unique short-term vacation rental.

"It could be a rental property, artist's studio, creative event space, or just used as a weekend retreat," she said. "It's such a cool property and so remote, but ideally located in the heart of Augusta County between Lexington and Staunton.

"It has been used as a family retreat, but I could really see it being used as an artist's studio. Parking is somewhat limited though because it was built right on the road."

The four-story residence boasts a basement with original mill wheel, storage rooms, and access to a walk-out patio. Hardwood floors, exposed beams, and wood-clad walls can be found throughout. The slate roof was added in 2019, and new insulation was installed earlier this year.

A cozy family room with fireplace has access to a spacious deck offering beautiful views of the creek and wooded lot. The sun-filled kitchen has green tile countertops and a separate dining area.

An upstairs primary suite boasts vaulted ceilings and access to a private balcony that would be ideal for morning coffee while soaking in views of the nearby waterfall.

"The next buyer could also be someone who loves fishing because there is incredible trout fishing right from the property along the banks of Moffatts Creek," Beams said.

The seller has also listed the property next door at 6614 Middlebrook Lane for sale, so potential buyers could create the ultimate legacy compound.

"A rare opportunity to preserve and enjoy an authentic piece of the Shenandoah Valley's milling heritage," the listing crows.

"Converted into a residence, this historic mill blends craftsmanship and rustic charm with modern comforts.

"Whether your dream is to restore the mill to working order, create a private getaway, or reimagine it as a gallery, studio, or event venue, Moffatts Creek Mill is truly a one-of-a-kind property brimming with endless potential."