Pod the Road Again: Mabry Mill

Welcome to "Pod the Road Again," I'm your host, P.T.R.A. Mabry Mill, located on the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 176.1, is a cultural and historical gem that showcases the self-sufficiency and hard work of the region's ancestors. Originally built by Ed Mabry in 1905, the mill operated as a gristmill, sawmill, and blacksmith shop, providing essential services to the local community. Despite facing challenges, including Ed Mabry's failing health and the mill's eventual restoration by the National Park Service in 1942, Mabry Mill remains a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage and continues to attract visitors with its picturesque setting, live exhibits, and traditional crafts demonstrations. The mill's legacy extends beyond its functional role, as it has become a community gathering place, hosting Sunday afternoon music and dancing sessions, and offering a glimpse into rural Appalachian life at the turn of the 20th century.