This newspaper advertisement offers a rare glimpse of the milling operation that took place at what became known as Smithville. We've transcribed the advertisement to the left below.
Rare Chance for Bargains
Desirous of changing my business, I offer the following property for sale at a bargain: The property known as the Telegraph Mills, on the banks of Salt River, where the Louisville and Bardstown pike crosses said river; together with 100 acres of choice land, 30 acres of bottom land, under good cultivation, the balance well set in Blue Grass. There is on the premises three Dwelling Houses, one Blacksmith Shop, Stables, Sheds, &c., &c. Two of said dwellings are excellent buildings, and in good repair, the other comfortable for a tenant. The Mill and fixtures consist of three run of stone, and all of the apparatus necessary to do a good business. Engines and all in good repair; a large Distillery, with all the necessary apparatus for conducting the same. Also, two excellent Carding Machines, in good condition, and capable of doing a fine country business. All of said property I will sell at a bargain and on easy terms. The location is one of the most desirable in Kentucky. In the midst of a fine wheat growing country, as also a corn and wool growing region, and affords advantages seldom met with to receive a large amount of custom as well as a flouring and distilling business.
Inquire on the premises, or address for particulars Dr. Griffith, Mt. Washington, Ky., or W. N. Haldeman, Louisville, Ky.
References -- Dr. S. M. Matheny, Lexington, Ky.; Henry Hamilton, Louisville, Ky.; G. S. Miller, Lebanon, Ky.
The Louisville Daily Courier, 9 May 1860, page 1
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The Bullitt County History Museum, a service of the Bullitt County Genealogical Society, is located in the county courthouse at 300 South Buckman Street (Highway 61) in Shepherdsville, Kentucky. The museum, along with its research room, is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Saturday appointments are available by calling 502-921-0161 during our regular weekday hours. Admission is free. The museum, as part of the Bullitt County Genealogical Society, is a 501(c)3 tax exempt organization and is classified as a 509(a)2 public charity. Contributions and bequests are deductible under section 2055, 2106, or 2522 of the Internal Revenue Code. Page last modified: 18 Jun 2025 . Page URL: bullittcountyhistory.org/bchistory/telegraphmill.html
