Providence Metropark — Attraction in Whitehouse

Isaac Ludwig Mill - History The Isaac Ludwig Mill has a rich, and colorful heritage. In 1822, Peter Manor, a French Canadian trader, built a sawmill at this site and subsequently had a small gristmill. In 1842, Peter Manor sold some land to the State of Ohio for the construction of the Miami and Erie Canal. As part of his compensation for the land he was granted perpetual water rights to power eight sets of 48" buhrstones and machinery. Today Providence Metropark District, current owner of the mill, has the water rights that obligate the State of Ohio to supply water to the mill's turbines. Manor started building a mill building but died before its completion. In 1849, Isaac Ludwig, a boat builder from Pennsylvania, bought and completed the construction of the mill. Isaac Ludwig used a breast-shot waterwheel to power the buhrstones. The mill prospered under Isaac Ludwig's management until his retirement.

In 1886 Augustine Pilliod bought the mill and hired an apprentice Frank Heising, a German youth who could speak English. Many of the local farmers were German and Pilliod needed someone to interpret and talk to the farmers. While Pilliod owned the mill, he made many changes. He decided to modernize the mill and added 25 feet to the existing building. The only remnants of the original Peter Manor building are the foundation and some framing. He removed the waterwheel, installed a turbine and put in roller mills. In 1908, Pilliod introduced an electric generator powered by a 140-horsepower Trump turbine. This enabled the mill to supply electricity for the mill and the surrounding area. Toledo Edison Company bought out Pilliod in 1918. When the railroads were built through Grand Rapids, Augustine Pilliod was contracted to pump water to the steam engines at their station in Grand Rapids. Pilliod installed a water pump in the basement of the mill, blasted through solid rock in the riverbed, laid an iron pipe and pumped water with the turbine one-half mile across the river. The line is still there and comes up in the basement. The pump is also still in place, but not in use. Augustine Pilliod retired in 1918 a wealthy man. Frank Heising, the apprentice, bought the mill and operated it until his death in 1931. His son, Cleo, along with the entire family, assumed the operation of the mill. In March of 1940, fire destroyed the upper part of the second level and the roof. The building was rebuilt as it exists now. The head houses were added at this time. In 1949, a new 36" Leffel turbine was installed, upgrading the mill. At this time much of the old machinery was replaced and the business was modified into a feed mill. The flouring operation ceased with the advent of the 1940 fire.

In 1972, the mill was providing livestock feed for a near non-existent demand and closed. The mill's machinery was auctioned and just the shell of the building, the turbines, and the water pump remained. Between 1972 and 1974, Cleo R. Ludwig, Isaac Ludwig's great grandson, purchased the mill from the Heising Family and donated it to the Providence Metropark District.

In 1974, the Providence Metropark District started to restore the building to an authentic 1900 mill.

Currently, the primary power source for the mill is the two turbines. They are located in a penstock in the basement of the mill building. Water from the canal flows into the pen stock, and drops down through the turbines which turn the shaft and transfers the energy via gears and belts to drive the sawmill and the stones. The spent water exits...

Providence Metropark is a truly beautiful and unique destination, perfect for a family day out. The picturesque surroundings make it an ideal spot for a relaxing picnic with your loved ones. Fishing enthusiasts will also love the opportunity to fish in the Rapids or near the dam, providing a fun and rewarding experience.

The park's hiking and biking trail leading to the historic mill and railroad bridge adds to the charm, offering a great opportunity to explore the area's natural beauty. The combination of the mill, canal ride, and riverside trails provides a unique and diverse experience for visitors.

History enthusiasts will be delighted to find several floors inside the mill packed with information, offering an educational glimpse into the park's past. Information signs scattered throughout the area further enrich the experience by providing valuable insights into the park's heritage.

Overall, Providence Metropark is a delightful gem that offers something for everyone. Whether you're seeking a serene spot for a picnic, angling excitement, or a chance to delve into local history, this park delivers an unforgettable experience that will leave you with...

Had a great time walking along the canal boat route for a little bit, exploring the trail, and playing at the playground with kids. I couldn't believe how big some of the trees were! My kids enjoyed finding little sea shells that had washed up into the area when it had flooded a bit. My son even found a fishing pole caked in dirt but my husband says it's still usable. I was sad to see some trash the also washed up, such as lighters and pop cans, but I think next time we go I'll have kids each bring a small trash bag to help clean up. It's a good family project and a good way to help teach kids the value of helping to keep the...