Introduction
Few historic sites in Utah capture both the pioneering spirit and the mysteries of the supernatural quite like the Benson Grist Mill. Located in Tooele County, this lovingly preserved site not only tells the story of early settlers’ determination to build thriving communities but also whispers of lingering spirits from the past. For history buffs, it is a chance to step back into the 19th century. For ghost hunters, it is a chance to encounter restless energies said to roam the grounds. In this article, we’ll explore the rich history of the Benson Grist Mill, uncover the eerie tales of its hauntings, and highlight why this is one of Utah’s must-visit paranormal hotspots.
The History
Origins of the Mill
The Benson Grist Mill was built in 1854 under the direction of Ezra Taft Benson, an early leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and a key figure in Utah’s pioneer history. Benson recognized the need for a grist mill to support the growing agricultural community in Tooele Valley. Grist mills were essential in the mid-19th century, grinding wheat, corn, and other grains into flour, which was the lifeblood of pioneer survival. With its stone construction and water-powered wheel, the Benson Grist Mill quickly became a cornerstone of the community.
A Hub of Community Life
Beyond its function as a mill, the site became a gathering point for local families. Farmers would bring their grain here, but the mill also functioned as a meeting place where settlers could share news, trade, and build relationships. In a valley where survival often depended on cooperation, the Benson Grist Mill symbolized both hard work and hope.
Decline and Restoration
As technology advanced and industrial milling operations took hold in Utah’s cities, the Benson Grist Mill eventually fell into disuse. By the early 20th century, the once-thriving site stood neglected, its stone walls weathering under the harsh Tooele sun. However, in the 1980s, community leaders recognized the historical importance of the mill and launched a preservation project. Thanks to the efforts of volunteers and the Tooele County Historical Society, the Benson Grist Mill was restored and reopened as a heritage site. Today, it stands as one of the best-preserved examples of pioneer milling in the American West.
The Haunt
Reports of Restless Spirits
While the Benson Grist Mill’s historical value is undeniable, it is the whispers of ghostly encounters that attract paranormal enthusiasts. Visitors and staff have reported disembodied voices, cold spots, and shadowy figures lurking among the old millstones. Some even claim to hear the rhythmic sound of grinding, as though the machinery has sprung back to life—despite being long retired.
The Ghost of a Miller
One of the most frequently told stories is that of a miller who is said to have died tragically while working at the site. His spirit reportedly lingers, tied to the mill he once devoted his life to. Witnesses describe seeing a figure in old-fashioned clothing near the grinding wheel, only for him to vanish moments later. Paranormal investigators have picked up unexplained EVP (electronic voice phenomena) recordings inside the mill, some of which sound like a man’s voice calling out indistinctly.
Children of the Pioneer Era
Another common theme in the haunting accounts revolves around children. Guests have reported hearing laughter, footsteps, and the faint sound of play echoing through the mill’s halls and surrounding grounds. Some speculate that these are the spirits of pioneer children who once played while their families worked the mill. The sounds are fleeting and often occur late at night or during paranormal tours hosted on the site.
Investigations and Tours
The Benson Grist Mill has been the site of numerous paranormal investigations. Ghost hunting groups from across Utah and beyond have conducted overnight vigils, capturing photos and recordings that suggest the presence of the unexplained. The site is also part of several haunted tours during the Halloween season, where visitors can experience both the pioneer history and the ghostly legends firsthand.
Conclusion
The Benson Grist Mill is far more than a relic of Utah’s pioneer past—it is a living story, blending history with the paranormal. Whether you come to admire its preserved stone walls, learn about the resilience of early settlers, or seek out evidence of the supernatural, the Benson Grist Mill has something to offer. For ghost hunters, it presents the thrill of investigating one of Utah’s most storied haunts. For history lovers, it provides an authentic glimpse into the lives of pioneers who shaped Tooele Valley. If you’re ready for an adventure that combines the past with the unexplained, add the Benson Grist Mill to your list of must-visit locations in Utah.