Civil War era cider mill is still a fall staple after 160 years

Historic cider mill remains an Oakland County fall staple after 160 years

ROCHESTER HILLS, MI - Walking into this big, red barn, visitors are immediately greeted with the sweet, sticky smell of apple cider.

That smell, coupled with fresh donuts, has been wafting out of Yates Cider Mill on Avon Road for more than 160 years.

The historic cider mill has been passed down through six generations, growing with Oakland County’s population.

The Yates family put down roots in Michigan when Abraham Lincoln was still president. Coming from New York, the family purchased 80 acres of land along the Clinton River in what was then the Township of Avon.

Initially, Yates was a sawmill and gristmill servicing surrounding farmers. As apple trees became popular on farms, the Yates family saw a new business opportunity and, by 1876, Yates added apple cider pressing to its list of services.

By the early 1900s, it was exclusively a cider mill. By the 1930s, cider and fresh donuts had become a staple.

The family has perfected the recipe over the years, adding different apple varieties throughout the season. By mid-October, as many as 10 varieties of apples can be combined to make an addictive blend of sweet and tart.

For generations, Yates’ apple press was powered by a 26-inch water turbine, which has stood the test of time. Installed in 1894, the iconic water wheel is still out front.

Recent flooding of the Clinton River rerouted the waterway, bypassing the dam that connects to the water turbine. Before that, Yates was the state’s oldest working water-powered mill.

Still, the mill’s placement by the Clinton River remains its best asset.

Sitting on 80 acres along the river, the mill has connected a nature loop along the water and back around to the apple tents making for an ideal fall stroll under the changing leaves.

After browsing the tent for apples, gourds, pumpkins, honey and maple syrup, walk across to the Frankenmuth Fudge tent for even more sweets.

With the growth of agritourism, the mill has expanded its outdoor entertainment as well. On weekends, a large petting zoo is set up on the hill with goats, sheep and a small cow. Pony rides are also available on weekends.

Yates Cider Mill, 1950 E. Avon Road, is open daily. Weekday hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and weekend hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Plan your visit at yatescidermill.com.

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