Two story frame mill was originally built at the community of Hulston on the Sac River at Turnback Creek in 1840 by Ezekiel Madison Campbell. Powered with a large turbine, the mill was operated from 1848-1859 by Campbell's son-in-law, Henry H. Pemberton. Henry Engleman, the next owner, sold to James C. Hulston in 1875 and a small economic community began to develop around the mill. Hulston's son John, "Chris" Hulston, converted the mill to a roller operation with steam for backup in 1892, shortly before he was murdered.

Subsequent owners were P.G.Spencer, 1906-12; Nixon, 1912-1913; Samuel Farmer,1914-1941; Baily Floyd, 1941-1941; Turrant Hickey, 1943-1946; J. Pemberton Nixon & A.F.Nixon, 1947-1964; and L.E.Meyer, 1965-1967. *Update: P.G.(Pleasant George) Spencer provided the milling knowhow to turn the mill into a profitable venture for its new owners. Richard Ruth, great grandson of P. G. Spencer 11/17/2006*

In 1967 the mill was moved to a 50 acre piece of property along Spring Creek, about one mile SE of the original site, to make way for Stockton Lake, a many branching reservior. The Sac River has its start in the area of Elwood/Haseltine west of Springfield, Mo. It is currently under restoration by the Dade County Historical Society, which is developing a small community park around the mill. The Hulston Mill 1800's Heritage Festival is held the fourth weekend of October. Address inquiries to: Dade County Historical Society, Brenda Craig-President, 429 West Water Street, Greenfield, Mo 65661-1331 Ph: 417-637-0258 Photos: AM/PM

**Update: The mill was resided in cedar, a stage added and the mill restored to operating condition in 2003. A horse park with electric hookups, showers, covered bridge, pavilion, and a playground are currently operating. Plans are to restore four cabins that are located in the park area. Horse trails and hiking trails are located in the park and on adjacent Corp of Engineers property. The park is owned and operated by the Dade County Historical Society, a 503c3 organization. The mill operates at various times during the 1800's Heritage Festival in late August. Activities by groups, parties and weddings are encouraged, as well as organized trail rides. Check with the above historical society to schedule an organized activity; otherwise, visitors are welcome. Search the Web for Hulston Mill for more current photos of the mill and more information. Update courtesy of Diane Hurd 02/18/2005**

The mill is now well signed from the junc. of US 160 and EE east of Greenville. *Two new photos of restoration courtesy of Clyde Beal, owner of Turnback Mill, Lawrence County, Mo* *Update: There is a new effort underway to get the mill operational. The last corn ground there was in about 2003. A single resident in the area, Dave Coplen, has undertaken the task, still unfunded. Thanks also for the headsup on the new active webpage, Clyde. Clyde Beal 05/25/2007*