Annual Dillard Days Picnic and informational meeting scheduled May 11

For more information: 573-751-1010
Volume 41-061   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 1, 2013

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Missouri State Parks invites you to experience an early 1900s picnic at the annual Old Dillard Town Picnic on Saturday, May 11, at Dillard Mill State Historic Site near Davisville. The event will begin at 10 a.m. and will be followed by an informational meeting at 4 p.m.

With the red, water-powered gristmill and the clear Huzzah Creek as a back drop and bluegrass music played by Red Bridge filling the air, guests will truly feel as if they have stepped back in time at this annual picnic. Strongman Steve Schmidt will be displaying his super-human strength and old-time crafters will be demonstrating their skills and selling wares. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.

The first floor of the mill will be open with staff available to answer questions. Dillard Mill is one of Missouri’s best-preserved examples of a water-powered gristmill. The mill, which has been restored to operational order, was built around 1900 and continued to grind grain until the 1960s.

The public is then invited to bring their ideas to an informational meeting that will begin at 4 p.m. at the mill. Representatives from the historic site will be on hand to provide information about the facility and to answer questions. Agenda items will include an update regarding the facility, planned improvements at the site and a recap of the year’s accomplishments. Additional topics to be discussed include a new roof on the Old Mill Lodge, repairs to the office and the installation of Americans with Disabilities Act compliant drinking fountains.

The informational meeting is part of an ongoing effort by Missouri State Parks to ensure the public has input on services and facilities offered in state parks and historic sites. People requiring special services or accommodations to attend the meeting can make arrangements by calling the site at 573-244-3120.

Dillard Mill State Historic Site is located five miles west of Viburnum and one mile south of Dillard, off Highway 49 in Crawford County. For more information about state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

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