Chapman’s Mill – Revisiting Oakland County’s History

Although there was never a “Chapman’s Mill” in Oakland County, the name of our restaurant was created to reflect back on the Rochester/Avon area’s rich industrial past.

In Rochester there was a mill building known as the Rochester Woolen Mill, and it had a millpond named the “Chapman’s Millpond,” after the then president of the company. The millpond was a prominent feature in the area for more than 130 years, until a dam further up Paint Creek broke, changing the course of the stream so drastically that it was determined the pond should be removed. The Rochester Post Office and Library are now located on the site of the old millpond.

Oakland County’s Rich History of Old Mills

Michigan and Oakland County are world famous for their automotive industrial history. The true beginnings of this area’s rich industrial heritage actually began almost a century earlier.

Only a few of Oakland County’s monuments to its colorful and enterprising milling history remain. Starting nearly two centuries ago, these establishments were erected along the banks of Oakland County’s numerous waterways and provided the true beginning of the American Industrial Revolution. Among the first of the early settlers, millers began producing goods and providing services to fuel the County’s growth into the industrial age.

The first of Oakland County’s water-powered mills was erected in 1819 in what is now Pontiac. Colonel Stephen Mack completed this sawmill on the Clinton River, with a dam that was erected at Pike Street. That same year, John Hersey erected a sawmill on Paint Creek within the present day boundaries of Rochester. Hersey is widely recognized as the father of Oakland County’s milling industry. Mack and Hersey were rivals, each constructing saw, grist and knitting mills over the next two decades on the rivers and streams of Oakland County.

By the 1870’s Oakland County had the greatest number of mills in the state. There were 33 mills performing various types of milling operations. These mills were the true harbingers of the industrial revolution that was to bring Michigan to world industrial prominence. Even the automobile industry used water mills to power their machines early in the development of that industry in Michigan.

The Chapman’s Team

Realizing a Vision

The Proprietor of Chapman’s Mill is Jim Nichols. A long-time local businessman and area resident, this restaurant represents the culmination of his vision that, “great food and great service will bring customers back.” Jim has never been afraid of adversity. He considers opening Chapman’s Mill during a down economy an opportunity, not a risk. “I believe that everybody is looking for great value, especially in tough economic times. We want our customers to feel that they are getting great value for their dining experience.”

Talent on Tap

Randy Jarman, Chapman’s Mill Operating Partner, brings a wealth of experience to the restaurant, having served ten years as the Manager of The Redcoat Tavern in Royal Oak. “A friendly and well-trained staff is the cornerstone of a successful restaurant,” he said. “Our servers will be continuously trained and will always be knowledgeable about the menu.”

John Mitchell, formerly of Andiamo’s Bloomfield Hills, is the General Manager of Chapman’s Mill. His staff will provide the best bar and dining service possible to customers. “I have never believed that compromise is a possibility when it comes to service,” he said. “We won’t always be perfect, but we'll always strive for perfection, and be serious in the attempt. Our food and drinks will be generous and our staff will assure that customers get what they want.”