In the 1780s Oliver Evans of Delaware invented a grist mill design that was more efficient. Before this, grist mills hadn’t changed their design since the Middle Ages. He was the 3rd person to be granted a patent by the newly opened American Patent Office. Out of necessity in the 1790s many grist mill owners switched to Evan’s grist mill design to stay competitive in the marketplace.
His design included a hopper to process and dry grain, automated conveyances, and other updates.
1830s Grist mills locations unlimited to water supply
By the 1830s mills were powered by steam engines, and no longer had to be located on a river to generate power.
source:
Eating History: Thirty Turning Points in the Making of American Cuisine, by Andrew F. Smith, 2009
The Young Mill-Wright and Miller’s Guide, by Oliver Evans, 1795
