Image courtesy of the NPS website

Peirce Mill was built on Rock Creek in 1829 at the behest of Isaac Peirce. Using the moving water as a power source, the mill ground corn, wheat, and rye. Succeeding generations further developed the mill, sawmill, orchard, and tree nursery. In 1890, an act of Congress incorporated the mill and 350 acres of the property into Rock Creek Park. The mill operated until the turbine’s shaft broke in 1897. At the turn of the century, park managers went to work improving the site, improving roads and bridges and adding a new dam that provided a nice aesthetic for picnickers. In 1905, the mill was converted into a tea room complete with electric lights. In 1933, New Deal legislation transferred Rock Creek Park to the National Park Service. The National Park Service restored the mill and grounds to their historic layout by 1936. 

This is a free tour for WCG members only.
RSVP is required to attend. RSVP closes September 4th, 2026
RSVP link: https://forms.gle/SLu337mP2bd8SNTDA  

Please contact membership@washingtonconservationguild.org if you need to check your membership status

2026/2027 WCG season memberships are $35 for professionals, $25 for renewing emerging professionals,
and free to emerging professionals who are entering their first season as a WCG member.
Join or renew at www.washingtonconservationguild.org/membership. 

For more information about this season’s meetings, please visit:
https://washingtonconservationguild.org/meeting-schedule-2026-2027-season/