In this newly revised edition of The Gristmill, young readers will discover that people would travel from far and wide to visit the gristmill for the essential service of having their grain ground. Find out how the miller produced flour, the staple of life, as well as what jobs the miller did, what made the grinding stones turn, and how wheat becomes bread.

Describes the plantations that existed in the southern United States into the nineteenth century, examining what life was like for the owners of these large farming communities, their children, and the slaves.

Introduces the tools, activities, and importance of the blacksmith in colonial communities.

Discusses the importance of wood in colonial times, describing how trees were cut down and made into lumber and the training of apprentice carpenters, cabinetmakers, coopers, and wheelwrights.

Presents instructions for handicrafts and activities in the spirit of the pioneers, including decoupage, hooked rugs, corn-husk dolls, block and sponge printing, and making a Jacob's ladder.