The Miller in Eighteenth-Century Virginia An Account of Mills & the Craft of Milling, as Well as a Description of the Windmill near the Palace in Williamsburg

"The Miller in Eighteenth-Century Virginia" by Thomas K. Ford is a historical exploration focused on colonial Virginia, revealing the methods and importance of milling within the early American context. The book paints a picture of both watermills and windmills, emphasizing their central position in food production and the wider colonial society. Ford traces the story of milling from its ancient beginnings to its development in Virginia, shining a light on the lives of millers, their craft, and the laws that controlled their work. Readers will discover details about post mills and tower mills, as well as noteworthy individuals such as George Washington and Robert Carter, who were involved in Virginia's milling story. It also takes a look at the difficulties faced by millers and their standing in the community, while recognizing their essential role in the agricultural economy of colonial times.