History
This is the first property acquired by WLT. It was given to the trust by John and Barbara Kashanski.
Oil Mill Brook (aka Lakes Pond Brook) runs through this property, and continues under I-95, the southern border of the parcel. There is a small population of native brook trout in the deeper pools. Oil Mill got its name from a succession of mills that were built on the brook near the intersection of Gurley Rd. An up-and-down sawmill was erected here circa 1698 and was replaced by a grist mill circa 1781. In 1812 it was offered for sale as an oil mill, which operated until 1906. Linseed and cottonseed were ground and processed into oils, which were used to make paint.
Property Highlights
The brook runs quietly through a forest of mature and very large maples, beech and oaks. In 2022, Eversource clear cut a large swath in the middle of the parcel. North and south of the clear cut, the brook is shaded and serene, and it’s hard to believe you are at the intersection of highways I-95 and 395. The brook empties into the Niantic River.
Access
Park along Waterford Parkway North. Use caution walking along Oil Mill Rd.
