By Ken Drenten

Mishler Weaving Mill in Smithville, just east of Wooster in Wayne County, is a working textile mill that’s a testament to nearly 140 years of industriousness.

The mill, currently owned and operated by the Smithville Historical Society, was established in 1887 by Swiss immigrant John Mishler, a weaver by trade. Mishler produced rugs, carpets and other cloth goods on a hand-operated timber-framed barn beam loom.

Three more looms were added in the early 1900s, powered by steam from a coal-fired boiler. The mill switched over to electricity to power the looms in 1915. By the mid-20th century, the mill became the only U.S. producer of cheesecloth used in the Swiss cheesemaking process.

The historical society acquired and restored the mill in 1993.

A volunteer demonstrates weaving techniques at a loom in Mishler Mill. (Photo: Ken Drenten)

Now, visitors can view volunteers demonstrate using the working looms to weave colorful towels, dishcloths, rag rugs and placemats on Wednesdays from 1:30 to 4 p.m. year-round. A gift shop sells these items as well as handmade crafts from Smithville’s historic village, which includes a blacksmith shop, pottery shop, tinsmith shop and other early buildings.

The mill is located at 381 E. Main St., Smithville, between Wooster and Orrville on SR 585. Phone: (330) 669-9308. Website: https://sohchs.org/

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Ken Drenten is creator and manager of Dusty-Tires.com, a travel blog for out-of-the-ordinary places in Ohio.

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