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Deep Dive: Ben's Mill (1982)

Film Lens

Ben's Mill
Ben's Mill is a 1982 documentary directed by Michel Chalufour and John Karol, set in Barnet, Vermont. The film focuses on the Thresher Mill located on the Stevens River, showcasing how the river's energy powers various machines through leather belts. It follows Ben as he constructs a white pine watering tank and a horse-drawn sled for the local community. Produced as part of the PBS series Odyssey, the film emphasizes specific details of the milling process and the craftsmanship involved. It captures the essence of community and traditional methods of production, providing a glimpse into the life and work of Ben and his contributions to Barnet.

Why Watch

  • See how the Thresher Mill operates on the Stevens River.
  • Meet Ben and learn about his craftsmanship.
  • Find out about the community's reliance on local resources.

Did You Know

Ben's Mill was produced as an episode of the PBS series Odyssey.
The film has a runtime of 59 minutes.
Ben constructs a white pine watering tank and a horse-drawn sled.

Perfect For

Vermont historyTraditional craftsmanshipDocumentary enthusiasts