Archaeological Testing at the Head's/Healan's Mill Site (9HL607) in Lula, Georgia

Abstract

Archaeological testing at the Head’s/Healan’s Mill site (9HL607), located in Lula, Georgia, explored several portions of the site, including the remains of a raised millrace that supplied water to an overshot water wheel that powered the mill. The Head’s/Healan’s Mill, originally constructed in 1850, remains the sole surviving historic-period grist mill in Hall County and is currently undergoing extensive restoration. This site is but one example of the rural industrial complex present in north Georgia in the mid- to late-19^th century. It processed corn, feed, and grain from surrounding farms, contributing to the development of the local community. This poster presents the results of archaeological testing conducted at the site in 2015 and 2016 by student volunteers from UNG. These excavations add to our understanding of the mill and provided students with an opportunity to engage in hands-on archaeological fieldwork. Finally, this poster demonstrates the utility of collaborative archaeological projects that engage UNG students and faculty with community organizations such as the Friends of the Head’s/Healan’s Mill.