The 1843 Historic Mill – Home to Chic Antiques Market
I started this journey called self-employment 13 years ago. Actually, I started it over 20 years ago, but I opened my very first shop on…
I started this journey called self-employment 13 years ago. Actually, I started it over 20 years ago, but I opened my very first shop on July 8, 2008 in downtown Lake Orion. I was in 6 different locations (not counting the many booth locations!) before I landed in Almont, Michigan at the mill.
I met Deb and moved into her very awesome 1843 mill. We had our first Christmas Market in November of 2016. This is the longest I have lasted in any location. The minute I walked through the door, I just knew that I had to be part of the mill’s history. I felt peace and excitement at the very same time – if that makes sense???
Isn’t it amazing that the original machinery is still attached?? Well, who wants to take it down, though…I can’t imagine how heavy it must be
Since then, I have never had the desire to set up shop anywhere else. I felt at home. In January of this year, I took the plunge and purchased the mill. I still can’t believe it…
The water wheel is a reproduction built by a former owner in the 1980s. The original one would have powered the wheels to turn inside of the mill. They in turn powered the machinery. No electricity in 1843
The mill sits on 3 acres
The river out back used to run alongside the building to cause the wheel to turn. It has since been diverted.
Not a bad way to start off my 13th year in business! I am looking forward to seeing what the next 13 years bring to me, my business, and our mill.
Lori, I remember finding you in Lake Orion with Audrey, purchasing MANY painted pieces there, and following you around the area β stores and booths. Kinda like a groupie!! You are so talented and have been an inspiration to me! Thanks for leaving the corporate world behind! We appreciate YOU!
You and Audrey are the best!! I am so very grateful to have you both as my “groupies”. It has meant the world to me that you both have stuck by me through the years and my many moves. You continue to give me the courage to keep believing in myself.
Congrats Lori on your past and future successes. Excited for you in your permanent home, the Mill. I am sure Deb had mixed feelings about selling it but knew you would love it as much as she. Best wishes!!
Thank you so much, Dee. I am very honored to be part of the mill’s story and to pick up where Deb left off. She left some big shoes to fill, for sure!
You have a beautiful story Lori and when I drive past your mill it always catches my eye itβs stunning I guess I just love things that have lasted a life time or so, I love to walk in the mill itβs so peaceful thereβs a feeling about your place, your walls and floors tell a tail of so much, I will stop my husband says I talk to much ! I just wanted you to know what the feeling is when we come in your mill itβs beautiful! The things I buy from your mill to my home are perfect Thank you canβt wait to shop again!
You brought a tear or two to my eye, Tracey, thank you!! Your kind words mean so much to me. That feeling is EXACTLY what I am hoping you feel when you visit us.