A gristmill is a facility that grinds grain, such as wheat or corn, into flour or meal. The process typically involves using a large stone or metal wheel, known as a millstone, which crushes the grain as it is fed into the mill. Gristmills have been essential in food production for centuries, providing communities with the necessary ingredients for baking and cooking. Historically, gristmills were often powered by water, using a waterwheel to turn the millstone. This type of energy source made them efficient and sustainable. Today, while many gristmills are no longer in operation, some still function and serve as a reminder of traditional milling practices and the importance of local agriculture.