Frye’s Measure Mill

As Lisa R. said, this place is definitely a trip back in time. Once you step inside, the sights and smells completely change. Everything is laid out in a delicately-​organized and artistic fashion, made to look like a combination of an antique shop and a museum. And they do it VERY well. I couldn’t help but comment on the aesthetics of a more than a few of the smaller «booths» they have set up.
Not everything is actually antique though. There are plenty of ancient items to sate your historical cravings, but a lot of the merchandise is also made by contemporary craftsmen — just in the old handmade styles of yore. That’s what’s so charming about it all.
There’s so much to look at and so many little corners and twists and turns, that everything looks different from different angles. I found myself walking in circles a few times, and more than once realizing I was looking at the same section 10 minutes prior. Definitely a great distraction if you have some time to kill, and have a soft spot for history, quaintness, handcrafting, and antiques.
There’s also an old blacksmith’s shop on the grounds where they give demonstrations during the summer and fall, a firehouse with antique firetrucks, and a smaller wood carving shop (Oak Leaves Studio) across the pebble road. I don’t think the Oak Leaves is affiliated with Frye’s, but it’s still worth a step inside.
The mill is somewhat hard to find if you don’t know where you’re going though, so be sure to map out your route ahead of time. There are a lot of turns you don’t want to get lost on. Well, unless you like losing yourself on New England back roads, in which case knock yourself out.

My husband and I tracked down this mill, way out in the country. He found it online while planning places to visit when his parents joined us on the second week of our Fall 08 New England Foliage Tour. It’s a little tricky to find, so drive slowly and enjoy the ride through small town countryside.
This mill was built in the late 1800s. Check out the web site for more info and great pictures.
Only the gift shop was open during our visit. They sell Shaker boxes, and «seconds» — Shaker boxes that didn’t pass inspection but still look like the real deal for a much less expensive price!
Other great antiques are spread throughout the two story shop, and out in the old buildings. I got some old glass bottles for a great price. Wander around and enjoy a step back in time!