the Hideaway Hollow History

Built in 1790 the grist mill had a long operational history. Most famously, it was owned and run by Andrew Myers, becoming the Myers Mill Grist Mill which would produce buckwheat flour and cornmeal in partnership with Pillsbury. This era of the mill's history, also had it serving as a general store for the locals of New Lisbon, becoming a community nexus for generations.

Renowned writer and baseball enthusiast John Durant and his wife, photographer Alice Durant, owned and renovated the mill as their home and artists’ retreat. They spent many years creating and implementing their vision inside and outside of the property during the late 1940's onward. Elements of their time at the Hideaway are still around today, as are some of the baseball books they collaborated on (check out our shelves!). Much of the architectural decisions reflected in the house today were made by the Durant's. They were the first steps toward making the Mill a livable home, and an inspiring place for art. 

The Stowells' enigmatic style can be found all over the Hideaway Hollow House today. On the property during the 1960s and 70s, the Stowells resided at what is now the Hideaway. They are responsible for the beautiful blue paint colors seen around the house, which we chose to maintain and restore because it so embodies the nature of the Hideaway! The Stowells ran a summer camp for a period of time out of the house, as well.