Motor Mill Foundation

In 2004 the Motor Mill Advisory Committee evolved into the Motor Mill Foundation of Clayton County. The mission of the Motor Mill Foundation of Clayton County, Iowa is to protect and preserve the architectural integrity, history, natural beauty and serenity of the Motor Mill site and its surroundings and to develop appropriate uses and interpretation as a regional treasure for the benefit of future generations.

The Inn at Motor Mill once housed customers of the Motor Mill gristmill, later it became a farm home. In 2022 the Motor Mill Inn restoration project began, with the majority of the work being completed in summer of 2023. The upper two levels of the Inn now serve as a reservable amenity that accommodates twelve people comfortably. The bottom floor of the building serves as an office for the Motor Mill Foundation, giftshop, and welcome area for the public to get information on the historic site. 

In the Summer of 2024, the Motor Mill Stable received some restoration. A new roof (historically accurate) and electrical outlets were installed on the structure to make into a reservable event space for the public. 

Currently, as of April 2025, the Motor Mill is undergoing structural reinforcement to the supports in the basement of the building. The effort requires significant and careful excavation, including construction, concrete reinforcement, pier stabilization, tuck pointing, and stonework. To successfully stabilize the structure, a capital campaign is needed to raise $211,000 to complete these tasks necessary to keep the Mill avaliable for visitors, tours, and school groups for years to come. Consider supporting our cause on Great Give Day to keep the mill open to the public for future generations. 

The Mill at Motor is open for tours thanks to the Motor Mill Foundation’s various volunteers. You get a tour of the beautiful historic site by visiting on a Saturday from Noon – 5:00 PM Memorial Day – Labor Day. Tours include the historic 1800’s mill, related buildings, and town site. 

Inn on KWWL Community Thrives 

Mill Stabilization Project KCRG News