| Nothing says early Americana
better than the old community grist mill. This particular mill,
now known as Kirby's Mill, in Medford,
NJ was built in 1778, when our nation was in its infancy.
It marked the beginning of "modern industry" with the
construction of a dam, a grist mill for grinding grains and a
saw mill for cutting lumber into planks. By the turn of the century,
a carding house which prepared fibers such as wool and cotton
for spinning was added. Later a blacksmith shop for iron work
and horse shoeing was included. About the same time, a wheelwright
for repair of wheels on wagons, carriages and other equipment
was also operating at the mill complex. The grist mill was just
the start of a whole center of industry! At its height, other
businesses, such as a cider mill, a still house and a shingling
mill were all booming by the grist mill's side. |
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Now the machinery has long been silent and
the jobs the artisans once did are done by factory workers in
big cities around the globe. The old grist mill is the symbol
of a much different era. A time when our way of life and our
awareness of the world were much different than they are today.
"I have chosen to portray the mill accentuating
the water with the reflection in it. Water symbolizes other dimensions
on earth, creative energy and dream time. Water will take the
shape of its container and thus can teach us to adapt to outside
influences. The Great Blue Heron is a lone hunter whose quick
aggressive technique is its message. Take decisive action as
opportunity arises! The Mallards remind us to drink from the
waters of life as we maneuver through its ever changing path.
The ducks seem to say to go with the flow, with grace and comfort.
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