Central Roller Mills
The Central Roller Mills, located at 300 Madden Bridge Road in Central, South Carolina, is a significant historical site that offers insight into the region’s industrial past.
Established in 1903, the mill played a crucial role in supporting the local economy by processing grain from area farmers. It produced the renowned Issaqueena Flour, cornmeal, and a variety of livestock feeds. The mill’s operations contributed to the revitalization of Central, especially during times when the town faced economic challenges. By the late 1970s, as the demand for locally milled flour declined, the mill ceased its operations. Recognizing its historical importance, the Central Roller Mills was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2013.
The original structure is a three-story brick building with a one-story wing. Over the years, several additions were made, including:
- A second story added to the original one-story wing.
- A four-story tower housing bucket elevators.
- A three-story tower with nine storage silos.
- Additional structures for a corn mill and a hammer mill dedicated to producing animal feed.
These expansions reflect the mill’s growth and its adaptation to the increasing demands of agricultural processing in the region.
At its peak, the mill boasted an impressive production capacity:
- 100 barrels of flour per day.
- 5,000 pounds of cornmeal daily.
- 15 tons of mixed feed each day.
- The facility housed a variety of specialized equipment, including roller mills, stone grinders, sifters, mixers, and grain cleaners, all of which contributed to its efficient operations.
- In 2008, Issaqueena Mills, LLC acquired the property with the vision of restoring and repurposing the historic site. Restoration efforts have focused on:
Future plans aim to transform the mill into a destination venue that preserves its historical essence while serving contemporary purposes. Proposed uses include: A restaurant or bakery.
- A gift shop.
- A bed and breakfast inn.
- A conference center.
Additionally, there’s an intention to restore some of the corn mill equipment to produce limited quantities of stone-ground grits and cornmeal, offering a unique product to visitors.