The Union Mills Homestead, the Shriver family homestead for six generations, is a historic landmark located seven miles north of Westminster, Maryland, and 17 miles south of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. This museum of American rural culture features original artifacts — everything is much the same as when the Shriver family lived there. Tours of the main house, blacksmith shop and functioning grist mill offer a step into the past. Its cultural and Civil War history make Union Mills Homestead a popular destination for school groups and history buffs. The beautiful gardens and rustic meeting barn provide a scenic venue for weddings and gatherings.
VISIT AN EARLY INDUSTRIAL COMPLEX
Union Mills was built in 1797 by two brothers who combined their resources and respective skills in a venture involving the construction of two mills: a grist mill and a saw mill. The union of the two mills inspired the name “Union Mills.”
In addition to the mills, the business included a tannery and a variety of supporting trades, including a blacksmith shop, cooper’s shop (where they made barrels) and wheelwright.
This historic country estate, including the family homestead with original furnishings, multiple outbuildings and a working mill, maintains a distinctive character and atmosphere capturing a significant view into an important portion of Maryland history.
The site is now operated by the Union Mills Homestead Foundation, Inc., a non-profit corporation with all proceeds dedicated to the preservation, operation and interpretation of the Union Mills Homestead Complex.
(Photo credits: Slider house photo – Roy and Delores Kelley Photographs. Slider mill photo – Chris Sanfino. Wedding photo – Kathryn Lynne Photography.)