The Old Mill
Step into a piece of cinematic history at this picturesque park, which famously appears in the opening credits of the 1939 classic 'Gone with the Wind'. Built in 1933 to replicate an 1880s grist mill, it features stunningly realistic 'faux bois' (fake wood) concrete sculptures of bridges, benches, and tree stumps created by artist Dionicio Rodriguez. It is believed to be the only remaining structure from the film still standing, making it a dreamlike stop for movie buffs and nature lovers alike.
- Admission
- Free
- Hours
- Daily, 8:00 AM to sunset
- Duration
- 30 to 45 minutes
- Parking
- Free parking lot on Lakeshore Drive
- Access
- Paved pathways provide good wheelchair access around the grounds, though the interior of the mill and certain rustic bridges have stairs or narrow passages.
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Nestled within a quiet residential valley in North Little Rock, Arkansas, T.R. Pugh Memorial Park contains a stunningly detailed slice of artificial history known simply as The Old Mill. At first glance, the picturesque water mill appears to be a weathered relic of the mid-19th century, slowly being reclaimed by the lush Arkansas foliage. In reality, the mill is a masterpiece of architectural illusion, constructed in the 1930s to look as though it had already been abandoned to time.
The mill was the brainchild of real estate developer Justin Matthews, who wanted a striking, romanticized centerpiece for his new Park Hill residential development. Rather than building a standard municipal park, Matthews envisioned a tribute to Arkansas's pioneer ancestors. To realize this vision, he hired Senor Dionicio Rodriguez, a talented Mexican sculptor and artist who specialized in trabajo rústico (rustic work), also known as faux bois.
Rodriguez’s contribution is what gives The Old Mill its otherworldly charm. Every "wooden" element of the park—including the footbridges made of "logs," the handrails resembling twisted branches, the benches, and even a hollowed-out tree trunk used as a trash receptacle—is actually made of reinforced concrete. Rodriguez sculpted the wet concrete by hand and used secret mixtures of copper sulfate, iron, and other chemicals to tint the material, perfectly mimicking the texture, grain, and decay of real wood. He was notoriously protective of his techniques, often working under a tarp to keep his process a secret.
While the woodwork is an illusion, the mill does incorporate genuine historic artifacts. Matthews sourced real millstones from various historic Arkansas grist mills, some dating back to the early 1800s. Two of these stones were used by the Confederate states during the Civil War. The iron gears and grinding mechanisms inside the mill were also salvaged from genuine pioneer-era mills, grounding the fantastical concrete sculpture in actual state history.
Today, the park is maintained by the City of North Little Rock and is widely considered one of the most beautiful and photographed spots in the state. Visitors can wander across the concrete-log bridges, explore the two-story mill building, and admire the carefully manicured gardens that burst with color in the spring.
Ratings
attractionLore & References
- The Secret FormulaLocal legend says the sculptor Dionicio Rodriguez was so secretive about his concrete-coloring process that he mixed his stains in the trunk of his car and smashed his empty jars to prevent anyone from analyzing his ingredients.
- The Ghostly MillerDespite the site never being a functioning commercial grist mill, some visitors have claimed to hear the faint sound of grinding stones echoing from the structure on quiet, misty mornings.
Visitor Tips
- ◆ Visit during late March or early April when the azaleas, tulips, and dogwoods are in full bloom, transforming the park into a vibrant tapestry of color.
- ◆ Step inside the mill itself and climb to the second floor to get a closer look at the historic iron gears and a unique elevated view of the surrounding ponds.
- ◆ Bring a camera, as the park is highly popular for portrait photography; however, try to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure parking.
- ◆ Look closely at the "wooden" bridges and handrails and touch them to appreciate the incredible detail of the concrete work, which even mimics peeling bark and wood rot.
Heads Up
- ◆ The stone stairs and concrete bridges can become very slick when wet or during autumn when covered in damp leaves; wear sturdy shoes with good traction.
- ◆ Parking is limited to a small lot and street parking, which fills up very quickly on pleasant weekends.
- ◆ Climbing on the delicate concrete-log railings or wading in the ponds is strictly prohibited to preserve the historic artwork and ensure visitor safety.
Common questions
Was The Old Mill in North Little Rock actually in Gone with the Wind?
Yes, the mill appears in the opening credits of the 1939 film Gone with the Wind. It is believed to be the only surviving structure from the movie.
Can you go inside the Old Mill?
No, the interior of the mill is locked and closed to the general public. Visitors can explore the exterior, climb the stone stairs, and walk across the surrounding bridges.
Do you need a permit to take professional photos at the Old Mill?
Yes, professional and commercial photographers are required to obtain a permit and pay a fee through the North Little Rock Parks and Recreation Department. Personal, casual photography is free and does not require a permit.
Is the Old Mill wheelchair accessible?
The park features paved paths that are wheelchair accessible and provide excellent views of the mill. However, the historic stone bridges, stairs, and upper viewing areas are not accessible.