You Should Visit this Local Hidden Historic Gem

The Old Mill, known originally as El Molino Viejo, is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year. But what makes this historic building and garden so special?

The mill was built in 1816 as a corn and wheat mill for Mission San Gabriel and it is the oldest commercial building in Southern California. The building earned the name the “old mill” when a newer mill was built at the Mission in 1822-1823. The Old Mill still features details like the oxen hide ties on the ceiling beams in the Granary room as well as updates like the painted trim from the 1927-1928 restoration.

“It’s important to remember [the history] of this side of the country and a wonderful treasure that remains from the period in time,” said Cathy Brown, Executive Director of The Old Mill.

Today, the Old Mill and its historic Mediterranean gardens are open to the public. The former Granary or grain storage room, is now home to the California Art Club’s gallery. The current show features painted representations of the Old Mill made by local artists.

Outside, another draw is the Pomegranate Patio, which is surrounded by flowering trees is home to the Magical Music At The Mill chamber music concerts held each summer. This intimate space guarantees that there won’t be a bad seat in the house.

“It brings people here and gets them excited about history,” said Brown. The concerts are also unique because the music is unfiltered – the musicians use the natural acoustics instead of a sound system. The first concert in the series will be a Duke Ellington style jazz concert on Saturday, May 20.

The Old Mill is located at 1120 Old Mill Road in San Marino. Call (626) 449-5458 or visit http://www.old-mill.org/page/6631_Home.asp for more information.