A large stone mill located in Yates County has been included on the Landmark Society of Western New York’s “Five to Revive” list for 2025.
The hamlet of Bellona with a population of just over 100 individuals, remains the home of a large stone mill dating to 1828. Standing on the banks of Kashong Creek, from which its stones were quarried, the building was originally a grain mill. Now, the structure is unused, although a new roof was added within the past few years and has prevented the building from falling into complete disrepair. The site is a rare, intact example of the many stone mills originally found throughout the Finger Lakes region.
In November of 2024, community members became concerned over potential threats to the mill; there was a discussion of selling and leveling the structure to make way for a new business. When this concern was publicized, there was intense public outcry to defend the site, calling for the redevelopment of this historic landmark. In response, the owner has decided against selling the building, and he has stated that he is open to a potential business partner to assist in adapting the site. The building provides a great opportunity for historically sensitive rehabilitation and could serve as a hotel, winery, events venue, or other attraction with the increasing development of tourism in the Finger Lakes. Located just a five-minute drive away from the shores of Seneca Lake, the Bellona mill stands out as a unique example of the region’s architectural past.
Launched in 2013, the Landmark Society’s Five to Revive list calls attention to sites across our region in need of rehabilitation. Through this list, the organization strives to facilitate investment and to protect our area’s architectural heritage, working with owners, developers, investors, and other partners to create connections and reactivate buildings within their communities. These sites can serve as catalytic projects for surrounding neighborhoods, inspiring communities to reinvigorate and reinterpret their historic assets while leading the way for preservation advocacy and vitality.
Have all the Finger Lakes news from Finger Lakes News Radio delivered to your email every morning for FREE! Sign up by clicking here
