When Nora Mill Granary says it does things the old-fashioned way, they mean it! The company, which was established in 1876, still operates out of the same four-story building that sits on the banks of the Chattahoochee River in Helen.
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| Photo courtesy of Nora Mill Granary |
It still uses the 1,500-pound French burr millstones, and feeds water to a water turbine via a 100-foot wooden raceway. For Inn guests who are both foodies and fond of local lore, the mill and its next-door store are a must to visit.
Originally built by a miner who came in search of gold, the mill was bought in 1902 by former Georgia governor, Dr. Lamartine G. Hardman—who named the mill after his sister Nora—and sold to a group of investors in 1998. Starting in the 1980’s the head miller was Ron Fain, who with his wife developed and marketed many recipes that are now standards of the company.
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| Photo courtesy of Nora Mill Granary |
Though there have been changes and improvements over the years, the concept is the same: to grind fresh grains with no additives or preservatives for old-fashioned quality. Classic Nora Mill Granary products include grits, cornmeal, pancake and waffle mixes, biscuit and bread mixes and pioneer’s porridge. If you’d like to find some great Southern ways to use these items, check the company’s website and you’ll find recipes for including a delicious-sounding Grandma’s Buttermilk Chess Pie. In addition to mill-produced items, the store also sells things like speckle ware bowls, cast iron cookware, jams, jellies and much more.
Nora Mill Granary Grist Mill & Country Store
7107 South Main Street, Helen
Monday – Saturday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
706-878-2375
While doing things the old-fashioned way works for Nora Mills Granary, we at Lucille’s take pride in providing guests with all the modern-day comforts. Give us a call and we’ll show you!