The history of the millwright dates back to the industrial revolution. While milling machines, power looms, drill presses, lathes, and other equipment made mass production of goods possible, these new machines were too complicated for the average worker to understand. It became necessary to assign workers with specialized training to install, maintain, and repair equipment. With the growth of industrial establishments and the increasing complexity of machines, the millwright became an integral part of the workforce. The Amana woolen mill, operated by waterpower in communal days, needed and employed such a millright. The Millwright Shop stood on the grounds of the Woolen Mill complex. It is now the Woolen mill sales room on the property of the Millwright hotel.
