Nora Mill, built along the banks of Georgia's Chattahoochee River in 1876 survives to this day. The four story building, complete with 1500 pound French Burr mill stones, was built by John Martin. Attracted to the area by stories of the Georgia gold rush, Martin settled in the Sautee-Nacoochee Valley. Near the turn of the century, the Martin mill changed hands and its name. Purchased by Georgia's would-be governor in 1927, Dr. Lamartine G. Hardman named the mill in memory of his sister, Nora. The Blue Ridge Mountain mill remained in the Hardman family until 1998.
   This active granary found on South Main Street in Helen, offers stone ground grains, bread and muffins mixes. Looking more like a general store, shelves are lined with cast iron cookware, enamelware, local honey, jams and old fashion candy. The mill is open most every day and mail-order products have become a large part of its business. Out behind the mill, large schools of well fed trout hang around the mill race, above and below the dam. Entertaining Nora Mill visitors for years, these tame trout are just waiting for a handout.

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