As the mill's popularity grew, Prater added a cotton gin, a saw mill, a wool carder (device that combs sheep wool), a syrup mill, a general store and blacksmiths shop. For almost a century, farmers lined up their mules and wagons before dawn, waiting for their turn with the millers.

During the Civil War, the mill was used as a campsite by soldiers from both sides. While occupied by the Union army, the mill was considered a valuable resource for food and was not destroyed. The Prater family operated the Mill until the 1950's. A succession of millers ran it until the 1960's. In 1971, the all-volunteer Prater's Mill Foundation took over the Mill and began its extensive restoration and preservation efforts. Today, the mill is best known for the arts and crafts festivals held twice each year. Throughout the year, the grounds are a popular site for fishing, cookouts and family reunions.

Fire Loss

Tragedy struck on May 20, 1995 when fire was intentionally set on the north side of the mill. Two arson convictions have been made to date. Most of the damage was sustained on the interior of the mill as the flames shot around the hand-hewn timbers. The force of the fire blew out most of the windows, damaged the roof, siding, electrical system, and destroyed an antique display case. The Prater's Mill Foundation is asking for donors to make tax deductible contributions to cover these costly repairs.

On some Civil War maps, Prater's Mill is listed as Barrett's or Russell's Mill. Barrett was a former owner of the property while Russell was probably a Prater relative hired as the miller.