Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ page). Below, we have tried to answer the most common questions visitors to this our Web site may have. If you find that your question is not answered on this page, please E-mail us at bostgristmill@netzero.com or call us at 704-782-1600.

What is a “Grist Mill”?A mill for grinding grain.

What does the word “Grist” mean?   a.)  grain or a batch of grain for grinding.       b.)  the product obtained from a grist of grain including the flour or meal and the grain offals.

What makes the Bost Grist Mill different from other Grist Mills today? Bost Grist Mill is still in its original state it was in the mid 1800’s

How is the Bost Grist Mill powered?The mill was originally powered by a water wheel when it was located on the Rocky River.  After the floods of 1908 in Cabarrus County, the mill was taken down and relocated on higher ground. During that time there were modern advancements in steam power and the mill was converted to steam and pulley power. The mill is currently powered by a gasoline tractor with a belt and pulley. We are currently working to set the mill back to its original water powered system.

What is a “French Buhr Millstone”?   Millstones may be made or built of rock, like quartz and granite.  The best stones for grinding wheat and rye are those built of “buhr stone”, a form of silica, link flint in hardness, but not so brittle.  This stone is found in abundance in the vicinity of the mineral district of Paris, France. Therefore the name “French Burh Millstone” was used as a common name.