Watch this video to learn more about the Sawmill and its operation.
Charlton Park’s Corley Sawmill was built in the 1890s and was originally owned by Gene Norris of Cedar Creek, MI. The mill was purchased in 1987 and moved it to the Park. The barn that covers the mill was built by the Gas and Steam Engine Club to protect it.
Before the 19th century, sawyers (a person who saws wood) worked by hand and usually in pairs. One man would stand above ground holding one end of the saw, and the other man in a pit holding the other end and together they would cut the logs. When the steam engine was invented sawmills were developed. They could produce lumber much faster and easier. Sawmills were usually built near rivers or lakes so logs could be floated to the mill. Since most buildings were made of wood it wouldn’t be long before a small town would appear near the mill.
