Water Turbine
Many old mills were powered by overshot water wheels, picturesque, but difficult to maintain. Praters Mill, however, was powered by three more modern underwater turbines. One of these, a Leffel-type patented in 1862, is still completely operational and continues to power one of the original pieces of milling equipment.
The turbine is located at the bottom of the forebay (pool) below. As gates around the circumference of the turbine are opened, water flows in the turbine casing, spinning the turbine wickets (blades) and the large shaft that extends from the water up inside the mill.
Water power was also used in the early 20th century to operate an electric dynamo which generated enough electricity to provide lighting in the mill. In the days prior to rural electrification in the area, Praters Mill was innovative.
Erected by Praters Mill Foundation.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Industry & Commerce. A significant historical year for this entry is 1862.
Location. 34° 53.739′ N, 84° 55.217′ W. Marker is near Varnell, Georgia, in Whitfield County. It can be reached from Prater Mill
this page online
Regionally, this marker is in Georgia’s Mountains. It is also in the American South, specifically in the Deep South, in Appalachia, and specifically in Southern Appalachia. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region, North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the original Cherokee Nation, the territory of the Mississippian Culture, one of the original Thirteen Colonies, one of the Confederate States of America, and the Antebellum South.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 4 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies: Praters Mill and The Civil War (a few steps from this marker); Prater's Mill (a few steps from this marker); Praters Mill Store (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named Praters Mill (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Dr. Lacewells Office (about 300 feet away); Cotton Gin
Also see . . . Prater's Mill Historic Site. Explore Georgia website entry (Submitted on July 19, 2018, by Tom Bosse of Jefferson City, Tennessee.)
Credits. This page was last revised on October 23, 2021. It was originally submitted on July 19, 2018, by Tom Bosse of Jefferson City, Tennessee. This page has been viewed 474 times since then and 35 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. submitted on July 19, 2018, by Tom Bosse of Jefferson City, Tennessee. • Andrew Ruppenstein was the editor who published this page.
