First mention of a mill at or near this site is credited to Benjamin Seidel who operated a mill before 1823.

General Matthew McDowell took possession of the mill in 1823. The settlement at the time was known as Seidel Town and McDowell's Mills became part of Light Street.

Peter Ent purchased the grist mill and in 1868, erected the present mill, a distillery and several residences. He operated the mill and store for many years.

Other owners were; John Hoffman in 1881, Henry W. Vanderslice in 1889, Harry G. Heacock and W. T. Hileman in 1931, and Fred I. Johnson in 1932.

Johnson's son, M. I. Johnson, made material repairs to the building and machinery. He also installed a diesel engine power plant. Today, the mill appears to be an outlet for seasonal and uniquely traditional gifts known as Forever Green.