A National Historic Landmark since 1991 and once the largest industrial building west of the Allegenies, the Cannelton Cotton Mill's first cornerstone was laid in May, 1849. It is one of the most impressive manufacturing structures of the pre-Civil War period. The building cost $80,000 when it was built and over $175,000 worth of machinery was installed.

The mill structure faces the Ohio River, several hundred feet from the north bank. The building has 280 feet of frontage and is 60 feet deep. Most of the building is five stories, but is dwarfed by 100 ft. high twin towers.

Cannelton was to rival Lowell, Massachusettes with several mills similar to this one. Hamilton Smith, who was one of the original planners of the milll, had visions of Cannelton leading the way in industrial development for the South and West. These hopes fell short of their goals due to poor attitude of the workers, a shortage of money, and an abundance of lime in the water.

The mill has a very unique place in history, as it made uniforms for the Civil War as well as materials for both World Wars. The mill was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976 and was sold to Charles Martin by Historic Cannelton Inc. in 1992. It is in the process of being restored.

This information courtesy of Historic Cannelton, Inc.

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