Yates Mill Historic Mill Building Reopens After Waterwheel Restoration

WRAL reported on Nov. 14, 2025 that work to replace the mill s 12 foot waterwheel and forebay at Historic Yates Mill County Park, located in southwestern Wake County, is complete. Crews began disassembling the existing waterwheel and forebay in July, and the replacement project has concluded ahead of a planned public reopening on Saturday Nov. 22. An open house will run from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., and interpreters will be available on select weekend dates later in November. Weekend mill tours are expected to resume in late November, and residents are advised to check the county website for the latest tour schedule.

The project preserved the county s last operable water powered gristmill, a local landmark with educational and cultural value for schools, residents, and visitors. The restoration addressed deteriorating mechanical and structural elements that had threatened the mill s ability to operate and to demonstrate historic milling processes. Restoring the waterwheel and forebay allows interpreters to show how water power was harnessed for grain milling, and it ensures the site can continue to host demonstrations and programming that connect residents to regional agricultural and industrial history.

Funding for the project combined public appropriation and community fundraising. Wake County contributed approximately 42 percent of the project cost, while the remainder, about 58 percent, was raised and managed by Yates Mill Associates through community fundraising. That split illustrates a public private stewardship model that relies on county support alongside nonprofit fundraising to maintain historic assets. For county officials and residents tracking public spending, the figures provide a concrete accounting of local investment in cultural infrastructure.

The reopening has implications for local tourism, education, and civic engagement. The mill draws school groups and history enthusiasts, and the resumption of tours will restore a modest but steady source of weekend visitors to the park. The fundraising role played by Yates Mill Associates also highlights sustained community involvement, volunteer stewardship, and the importance of nonprofit capacity in preserving public history sites. Looking ahead, maintaining the mill will require ongoing coordination between county parks staff and community partners, and transparent reporting on maintenance needs and costs will be essential to sustain public trust.

Residents interested in attending the Nov. 22 open house or booking future tours should consult the Wake County parks website for up to date hours and scheduling information.