Benson Grist Mill, built in 1854
Sawmills became the first industry of Tooele County. “At the next meeting of the Provincial Council of the State of Deseret, 24 November 1849, Ezra T. Benson, Anson Call, Josiah Call, and Judson Tolman were granted the right to the saw and building timber in Pine Creek and Small (Middle) Creek Canyon, and the privilege of a mill site on Big (Settlement) Canyon Creek, the petitioners agreeing to make a road into the canyons and, upon completion of the mill to furnish lumber at $20 per thousand feet.” (L. D. S. Journal History, November 24, 1849, History of Tooele County, pgs. 20, 43.)
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