Gristmills have been an important part of farming and community life in West Virginia for over 250 years. They used large stones, called buhrs, to grind grain into flour, meal, and animal feed, usually powered by water from nearby streams. Shepherd's Mill in Shepherdstown, built in the 1730s, is the oldest working mill in the state.

Early pioneers often used hand mills before building full gristmills. Later, new technology like water turbines (1827) and steam engines (late 1800s) made milling more efficient. Some mills, like Blaker’s, still use turbines, while others, like Howell’s, use gasoline or steam engines.

Though many gristmills have shut down, some still operate or are being restored. They were not only used for grinding grain but also served as important community gathering spots.