Mill Pond Garden is situated on the eastern most branch called “Old Mill Creek”, of the 150 acre Red Mill Pond, the largest body of fresh water, up to seven feet deep, in Delaware. The pond is fed by numerous springs and a large area of surface drainage including from Cool Spring Creek of the Broadkill River.
The first mill dated to 1750 and has burned down twice in its history. The most recent Red Mill was built in 1921 for wood working, was torn down about 2010 by the current owner, Craig Hudson who has tried to plan to rebuild the historic mill to save the historic feature as a public venue.
The old mills of Delaware, a crucial part of its history, are disappearing. A mill is a fascinating machinery and visual experience enjoyed by all ages and peoples.
The mills built Delaware. They made the lumber, ground the grains, and powered many early industrial processes.
Red Mill Pond is a huge resource for wildlife and fish, currently being sickened in the past few years by fertilizer and pesticide chemical run off from the booming housing developments around it. Exposure to the water is no longer recommended due to toxic algae blooms. Wildlife appears to be suddenly and rapidly diminishing.
The Cape Gazette hosts a history blog for Red Mill Pond in this link.