The Uinta Elevator & Milling Co. was built in 1892 along Bear River in the section of Evanston, Wyoming that included Chinatown. Chinatown provided living quarters for over 2,000 Chinese who were employed primarily by the railroad and the coal mines. *Update: The peak population of Chinese in Evanston was about 100 in the early 1880s. The town itself had a population of only 1,200 in the 1880 census so the figure of 2,000 Chinese is exaggerated. Barbara A. Bogart, Director, Uinta County Museum*

The Uinta or Evanston Mill was powered by turbine from the Bear River and milled flour at first, later being used mostly for grain storage. The mill is 3 story brick, painted white, above ground and measures about 30' X 40'.

About 1946, the mill was completely remodeled and renovatedby an Evanston businesman and entertainer named Joe Wheeler. Mr Wheeler along with a partner, Marlow Paul, reopened the old mill as a supper club, the Jolly Roger. With a pirate decor, the club became a popular landmark for almost 40 years, and stories are still told about Joe and the Jolly Roger. Again in 1995 the mill was restored/renovated into another restaurant called appropriately, the "Old Mill Restaurant". This picture shows the interior as it is today.

Part of a painting on a three foot saw blade that hangs in the foyer of the Old Mill Restaurant. The painting depicts the mill around the turn of the century.

The current owner, Thomas C. Everding, operates the Old Mill Restaurant at 30 County Road, Evanston Wy 82930. The restaurant and bar features food, drink, fun, pool tables, darts, karaoke, and video games. Mr Everding was most gracious and accomodating during my visit in July 2004.