Swift
Creek Mill Theatre
Records
indicate that Swift Creek Mill was in existence as early as 1663. It is believed
to be the oldest grist mill in this country. Henry Randolph I, born in Little
Houghton, Northhamptonshire, England, migrated to this country about 1640.
In 1655, he acquired a large tract of land in Bermuda Hundred on Swift Creek
where he erected the present mill. An heir of Henry Randolph I, William Bland
Randolph, deeded the mill to William Rowlett on February 20, 1805, and it
became known as Rowlett's Mill. In 1852, the Rowlett heirs conveyed the mill
to the Swift Creek Manufacturing Company. On May 9th and 10th, 1864, a battle
was fought around the mill when General B.F. Butler's Army of the James attempted
to cross Swift Creek. Following the Civil War, the property became Schmidt's
Distillery, making corn whiskey. Following this, the property changed hands
several times, was operated as a grist mill and became known as Swift Creek
Mill. It continued to operate as a grist mill until about 1956. On December
2, 1965, Swift Creek Mill Playhouse opened its doors. Converting the old grist
mill into a dinner theatre required an addition to the three story building
to house the kitchen, dressing rooms and restrooms. Stairways were built leading
to upper and lower dining levels, and to the theatre located on the top floor.
Much of the old equipment in the mill was refurbished to lend a rustic atmosphere.
Swift Creek Mill has been preserved as both an historical landmark and a cultural
outlet for the talent of local artists, skilled actors, directors, designers
and technicians whose efforts have made possible the artistic achievements
of the Mill. The 300 year old Swift Creek Mill has been made a Virginia Historical
Landmark and has been listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
