In the heart of Stanford, Kentucky, a hidden gem stands as a testament to the rich industrial heritage of the late 19th century. Baughman’s Mill, a three-and-a-half-story brick structure, proudly showcases the architectural prowess of the era while preserving its utilitarian purpose with an air of timeless elegance.
Architectural Allusions: A Fusion of Styles
Baughman’s Mill, located southwest of the Stanford train depot, draws inspiration from three distinct 19th-century architectural sources. The plain-faced masonry surfaces and simple false roof pay homage to the early factory architecture in England and America, boldly declaring its utilitarian strength. The segmental-arched windows and label molds reflect the eclectic stylistic borrowing prevalent in late 19th-century domestic building. Additionally, the grid-like fenestration and vertical visual emphasis in the advanced brick piers respond to the rising influence of multi-storied, steel-framed industrial buildings of the time. In essence, Baughman’s Mill weaves a narrative that echoes the three essential building traditions of the 19th century.
Building Description: A Glimpse into History
Situated in the picturesque southern region of the Bluegrass, Stanford remains the county seat of Lincoln County, offering a perfect backdrop for Baughman’s Mill. The mill, strategically positioned close to the railroad tracks for convenient shipping, rises above Main Street on its own charming thoroughfare.
Built on a sturdy brick foundation, the major mill structure spans 40 feet by 35 feet, boasting a full basement and a spacious attic. The gable roof, adorned with raised-seam metal, features unadorned overhanging eaves, contributing to the mill’s timeless charm. The exterior brick wall, load-bearing and punctuated with vertical bands of advanced brick, stands as a symbol of enduring craftsmanship.
The facade showcases six-over-six patterned windows with rock-faced stone sills and segmental window heads. Notably, the eastern gable end boasts arched label molds formed by advanced courses of brick, adding a touch of sophistication to the mill’s exterior.
Historical Significance: Preserving the Past
To the rear, a network of interconnected secondary structures reveals the mill’s original functions, including grain storage and an innovative grain elevator. The grain elevator, a box-like tower, facilitated the constant motion of grain to prevent mold and rot, showcasing the ingenious solutions of the time.
While the mill’s exterior remains virtually unaltered, shed-like frame additions at the eastern end subtly nod to the evolution of its purpose. What was once a grain storage facility now houses fertilizers, adapting to the changing needs of the community.
Baughman’s Mill stands not only as a physical structure but as a living history book, narrating the story of 19th-century industrial architecture in America. As we explore its corridors and admire its facade, we are transported back in time, appreciating the craftsmanship, innovation, and resilience that define Baughman’s Mill in Stanford, Kentucky.