The Obadiah La Tourette Grist and Saw Mill is a key contributing resource within the German Valley Historic District. Philip Weise constructed the three-story frame mill circa 1750. Obadiah La Tourette purchased the mill in 1860. During his ownership, he replaced the two water wheels with turbines and constructed a large addition incorporating part of the earlier structure into its current configuration. Following La Tourette’s death in 1898, the mill continued to operate under various owners until 1940. The Washington Township Land Trust stepped in and purchased the mill in the 1990s saving it from demolition after being condemned by the Township.

The 2023 Trust grant will help fund the stabilization and restoration of the Obadiah LaTourette Grist and Saw Mill.

The 2022 Historic Site Management Trust grant will help fund the preparation of design documents for the full restoration of the mill. The 2022 Capital Level 1 Trust grant will help fund the installation of protections to prevent water infiltration in preparation for a full rehabilitation of the mill.

The 2021 Trust grant will help fund necessary investigations and develop plans for stabilizing the foundation and building. Work will include surveying, borings, hydraulic engineering and obtaining NJ DEP environmental permits. The 1997 grant helped fund completion of the watertight enclosure of the mill, including restoration of wood siding, windows, and doors. 

The building was near collapse in the 1980s when a group of conservationists and preservationists raised money to purchase the mill and adjacent acreage. A $5,000 loan from the Trust's Emergency Grant and Loan Fund helped fund a comprehensive preservation plan preservation, and dedicated volunteers in the Long Valley community have accomplished work on the building. 

For more information, visit: https://millpictures.com/mills.php?millid=1177