The Journal-Record - Bicentennial Edition Thursday, July 1, 1976 Section B, Page 9 PEARCE'S MILL NOMINATED TO HISTORICAL SOCIETY What could be a better time for one of Marion County's favorite old landmarks to be nominated to the National Register of Historical Places than during the nation's Bicentennial Celebration year? That is exactly what has happened for Pearce's Mill. the nomination has yet to be approved by the U. S. Department of the Interior in Washington, D. C., but still it has been made. The Pearce's Mill area has long been noted for its historic significance to Marion County. Following the Civil War, James P. PEARCE returned to the mill his father had built in the 1840's on the Buttachatchee River and found a ravaged countryside. He gradually rebuilt the farm and turned it into both a mill and trading center. PEARCE became one of the largest land holders in Alabama and gained enough power and influence in local political affairs to represent his county at the State Constitutional Convention in 1901. By the early 1870's, PEARCES operation included the grist mill, a large two story frame general merchandise establishment with post office, a sawmill, planer, wheat flour mill, cotton gin and freight service. For many years he openly opposed the improvements of county roads fearing they would destroy his store and freight business. The Mill did begin to decline when the roads were improved. As railroads reached the towns and Hamilton, the county seat, they became more accessible as a trading center. Store operations ceased by 1930, while the mill continued in service until 1959. Mrs. Penny LONG and Mrs. William STRICKLAND now reside on the property.