avatarBruce Coulter

Summary

The 1761 Old Mill Restaurant, known for its historical charm, good food, and friendly waterfowl, has been a home to various bird species and a family-owned establishment for generations.

Abstract

The Old Mill Restaurant, established in 1761, has a storied history, having been a water-operated sawmill before transforming into a summer tea room and eventually a full-fledged restaurant owned by the Foster family since World War II. It's not just the antique ambiance and quality cuisine that draw visitors; the restaurant is also famous for its resident birds, including Pekin ducks, domestic geese, and Mallards, which have made the mill pond their sanctuary. These birds, native to Europe, Asia, and North America, are a major attraction, with guests often feeding them appropriate food, as bread is discouraged due to health risks. The article, accompanied by captivating photography, also serves as a call to support "Dining for Hunger," a charity working to combat food insecurity.

Opinions

  • The author, Bruce Coulter, expresses admiration for the Old Mill Restaurant's historical significance and the beauty of the waterfowl that inhabit its pond.
  • There is a clear affection for the birds, evidenced by the photographer's inability to resist capturing their charm, particularly a Pekin duck.
  • The article conveys a sense of responsibility towards the birds, advising against feeding them bread and suggesting healthier alternatives.
  • The author highlights the harmonious coexistence of the birds on the pond, noting occasional agitation but generally peaceful sharing of the habitat.
  • There is a sense of community involvement, with mentions of local paper stories about rescuing birds stuck in ice and the restaurant's role in the local ecosystem.
  • The author encourages readers to contribute to "Dining for Hunger," indicating a personal commitment to the cause and a belief in the organization's mission to end food insecurity.

An Amazing Variety of Birds Call Old Restaurant Home

The collection of ducks and geese were swimming lazily around the pond — until my daughter and I broke out some fresh corn. © Bruce Coulter Photography

Three fingers. That’s all it takes to count the number of families who have toiled in ownership of the 1761 Old Mill Restaurant.

The Old Mill was just that when it opened; a water-operated sawmill, cutting wood planks to build homes in the area. In the late 1800s, the mill closed and would remain so until 1921, when it opened as a tea room during the summer months. When he returned home from World War II, Ralph Foster, a Westminster resident, bought the restaurant. His family still owns it today.

Geese and Pekins and Mallards, oh my!

He’s not afloat in this photo, but I couldn’t say no to that face. © Bruce Coulter Photograph

While it’s true that visitors come for the charm of the antique restaurant and some damn good food, they also flock to the restaurant to photograph and feed the friendly waterfowl that have made the mill their year-round home. Pekins, domestic geese, and Mallard ducks swim harmoniously on the pond adjacent to the mill.

All of the birds are native to Europe, Asia, and most of North America. The Pekin is an American duck breed and is raised for its meat. Originally from China in the 19th century, the Pekin today is bred worldwide.

The birds usually get along on the pond. Some will get agitated on occasion, but they typically shared the pond in peace. © Bruce Coulter Photography

The domestic goose is a descendant of wild geese. In North America, the birds are thought to have Greylag Goose ancestry. Like the Pekin duck, they’re raised as a food source and down feathers. The birds are also popular with chefs for their livers which are used to make foie gras.

I’m not sure how the birds came to call the pond home, but they appear content. The grounds are fenced off to keep visitors at a distance. The birds are also well-fed, thanks to the guests who stop by before or after dinner.

A view of the falls at The Old Mill Restaurant — complete with our fowl friends. © Bruce Coulter Photography

No bread, please

A word of caution: do not feed geese and ducks bread. It can cause health problems and impact the birds’ environment. You can offer cracked, dried, or fresh corn, oats, rice, birdseed, frozen peas, chopped lettuce, or sliced grapes.

A Pekin Duck floats around the pond, oblivious to the flock of fans — including me — taking photos. © Bruce Coulter Photography

Our local paper occasionally publishes stories about birds getting stuck in ice during the winter. Fortunately, someone is always around to free them.

There you have it — my homage to afloat. I hope readers enjoy the story and the photos attached.

I accept tips, which go directly to Dining for Hunger, a recognized 501(c)(3) organization that looks to end food insecurity. If you can spare a dollar or two, I’d be grateful.

Ducks
Geese
Rivers
Environment
Photography
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