W. R. Stafford Flour Mill and Elevator

The W. R. Stafford Flour Mill and Elevator, located in Port Hope, Michigan, was a historic mill listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987 before its demolition in the early 2000s. Originally built in the 1870s, the mill evolved from a small grist mill to a significant agricultural facility with major expansions in 1882 and 1886. It played a crucial role in the local economy, transitioning from lumbering to agriculture, and was known for milling flour and grain storage. The complex featured an L-shaped timber-frame structure with distinct sections, showcasing the architectural styles of its time. Although milling operations ceased around World War I, the mill continued to serve the community until its closure.