From a 1797 grist mill to future dining and apartments, Vinton’s historic site endures.
Written by Jenny K. Boone / Photo by Ana Morales / Archival Image Courtesy of the Virginia Room, Roanoke Public Libraries
This site—the former Vinton Rolling Mill—is a key landmark in Vinton’s history.
Two of Vinton’s earliest settlers, brothers Christian and David Gish, opened a grist mill here called Gish Mill along the south bank of Glade Creek in 1797. Gish Mill was the first name for Vinton, according to town history.
In 1867, the Gish family sold the mill, and in 1911, it became Vinton Rolling Mill. It eventually produced three kinds of flour, according to historic records. Its name changed to Vinton Mill Company in 1924.
Years later, the milling company closed, and Holdren’s Country Store, a family-owned farm supply retailer, opened in its place. After more than 30 years in operation, the store closed in 2014. The Town of Vinton owns the property at 350 Gus Nicks Boulevard.
Revitalization work at the site has been underway for the past 10 years, and there have been a host of development challenges, including rezoning and stabilizing the structure, which sits in a flood plain.
Vinton has received numerous state grants and historic tax credits to help fund renovations. Redevelopment plans call for landing a restaurant, seven apartments, and additional retail space at the site by the end of 2026, said Nathan McClung, assistant planning and zoning director for Vinton.
State and national groups have recognized the former mill property’s historic significance. Gish Mill is listed on both the Virginia Landmarks Register and the National Register of Historic Places. I
