What is left of the old mill still stands as a
reminder of Milford's past.

How Milford Was Named

The "Mil" in Milford comes from the Grist Mill (also known as the Quenchaqua Mill) that was located off the Steam Wagon Road. This first mill only existed for fifteen years. It had been owned by several families before it burned down on November 3, 1882, destroying 5,000 bushels of wheat and all the machinery.

A new mill was built off the Blue River. It was first named the Quenchaqua Mills, then later became known as Nebraska Corn Mills. This new mill was bigger and better, grinding five carloads of wheat or three carloads of flour in just one day. It was also used to generate power for the town of Milford. This mill was torn down in the 1930's and was not rebuilt.

The "ford" in Milford comes from the natural limestone ford that crossed the Blue River. This spot was used by Indians and early settlers in crossing the Blue River in the early days. In 1865, Mr. Davison built a bridge across the Blue River.

Information courtesy of Eldon Hostetler.