Entire home

1867 Timber-framed Flour Mill's 1st Floor Apartment Overlooks Shell Rock River

Photo gallery for 1867 Timber-framed Flour Mill's 1st Floor Apartment Overlooks Shell Rock River

Mill's new roof from North Cherry Street. Enter street unit under red porch roof
New red roof in July 2019. Enter under the red porch roof to stay in street unit
The entry's maple flooring saved from a country school flows into the kitchen.
On your right is half bath with toilet, pedestal sink & stack washer/dryer.
Flour auger w/ tin fins & scissors for repairing leather belts hang above door.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 8111.5 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Shell Rock, IA
  • Shell Rock County Park
    ‪12 min walk‬
  • Wartburg College
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • University of Northern Iowa
    ‪25 min drive‬
  • Waterloo, IA (ALO-Waterloo Regional)
    ‪24 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Larger Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Livingroom

1 Double Futon

Smaller bedroom

1 Double Bed

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

1867 Timber-framed Flour Mill's 1st Floor Apartment Overlooks Shell Rock River

Before you enter the 1st floor, 2-bedroom apartment under the red porch roof, view the graceful, 100+ year-old bridge's arches where the river dances. If you're a history, architecture or engineer buff, you'll find The Old Mill's interior structure intriguing. If you're looking for relaxation, the sound of water over the dam will sooth you. The Old Mill's a great location from which to launch your bicycling, fishing, and kayaking adventures, to attend the University of Northern Iowa or Wartburg events, to shop Cedar Falls, Waterloo or Waverly, Iowa, or
to host family gatherings.
Inside, unique architectural accents from grain milling days entice you to marvel at the high ceilings graced by maple floor joists that are braced by black walnut columns and saddles in this clean, comfortable living space. Original, massive, 13 1/2-by-12 inch, mortise-and-tenon constructed beams provide the 40-by-30 foot framework for this five-story mill.
NOTE #1: Three of the five levels can be rented. The 1st floor's two-bedroom, 1,200 square-foot apartment is Vrbo property ID# 1056730. SEE NOTE #2 BELOW.

The limestone foundation is 4 feet thick at its base and 3-feet where the basement meets the 1st floor.
Sunlight streams through 6-pane windows removed from the mill prior to 1985; then reinstalled in 2011 above the interior doors of the two bedrooms and full bathroom.

●1,200 square foot, 2-bedroom, 1.5 bath, 1st floor (also referred to as street-level) apartment is furnished with antiques and decorated with mill artifacts.
●BEDROOMS
▪︎Larger bedroom has a queen bed and walnut gentleman's dresser with mirror and marble inset between the handkerchief drawers.
▪︎Smaller bedroom has a full bed and an antique, spoon-carved commode.
▪︎Bedrooms have river views.
●Red accent walls remind you of barns from earlier days.
●BATHROOMS
▪︎ Full bath has a tub/shower combination and large vanity with single sink.
▪︎ Half bath has a pedestal sink, toilet and washer/dryer.
●Towels, linens, hair dryer, soap and shampoo are provided.

● LIVINGROOM
▪︎ Furnished with a comfy leather couch, two recliners, and a futon that makes into a full-size bed with extra thick mattress.
▪︎ Walnut columns divide the living and dining areas.

●DINING AREA: Antique-oak table seats four to six with an eclectic mix of captains chairs and walnut chairs with caned seats.
●KITCHEN: Open to both living and dining areas with plenty of cabinets and counter space. Maple flooring from 1940's country school.
▪︎ Fully equipped plus basic, complimentary provisions including:
popcorn, coffee pods, tea, hot cocoa, sugar, spices, waffle mix, syrup and cooking oil; plates, mugs, glasses, flatware; casserole dishes, baking and muffin pans.
▪︎ Appliances: Prepare popcorn or a four-course meal using the microwave, blender, electric glass-top range, oven, refrigerator and crock pot. A dishwasher and double-sink make your clean-up easy.
▪︎Coffee pots: drip, old gold perk, modern Keurig, plus a toaster and Belgian waffle maker are within easy reach for a cozy breakfast.
▪︎Prefer not to cook? Convenience gas station five blocks away has prepared foods or heat and eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
▪︎Bar/cafe across the river with pub food. Steak house across the river.
▪︎Waverly has breakfast spots ten minutes away, plus fast food and local eateries.

●WiFi is at the mill!

●PRIVATE ENTRANCE overlooks the Shell Rock River, a tiny perennial garden and a sidewalk to the river's edge.
●PARKING. Off-street parking for vehicles, including recreational vehicles, is on-site just steps from the porch entry.

●LAWN ORNAMENTS
Remnants including massive turbines, partial millstones, and metal parts are in the mill's park-like setting.
●DECK (also referred to as balcony) Respect the second floor guests' privacy if
you walk up the mill's outside stairs to a deck 25 feet above the river. Gaze at an adjacent, three-arch bridge built in 1916 which is on the National Register of Historic Places, the upstream rubble dam, and mesmerizing sunsets. A pool below the dam is spawning territory for walleye in early spring, as well as a popular fishing spot year round so bring your fishing gear.
●CITY PARK Is adjacent to the mill property and overlooks the dam. The shelter can be rented with picnic tables, adjacent deck, modern restrooms and electric outlets.
●BOAT LAUNCH beyond the park above the dam allows small craft, kayaks and canoes to go upstream.

●PATIO. Listen to nature calling as you relax on the private patio overlooking the river, flanked by a rustic bridge railing and millstones. A gas grill, tools, picnic plasticware, even the picnic basket are provided for your convenience. You may glimpse blue herons, Baltimore orioles, cardinals and migratory species like the colorful cedar waxwing. During winter chickadees, nut hatches, woodpeckers and an occasional hawk land in nearby trees. Eagles sometimes soar over in summer or perch on ice above the dam as they enjoy their morning meal in winter. At night you may catch a glimpse of a deer, raccoons, beaver or otter in the yard.

● OWNERS' favorite day involves launching kayaks at Heery Woods Park near Clarksville, Iowa (hometown of 2018 American Idol winner Maddie Poppe) about 8 miles away. Then floating down the Shell Rock River, picnicking and skipping rocks along the way. Kayaks are taken out above the dam at the park next to the mill. At the mill, we mount our bicycles, ride the Rolling Prairie Trail back to Heery Woods where we retrieve the transport vehicle. What a wonderful way to combine relaxing with nature and exercise!

●CANOE AND KAYAK RENTALS are available 6.5 miles away in Waverly, IA.
●BICYCLES. Bring yours! More than 100 miles of hard-surfaced trails in the Cedar Valley are within 25 miles of the mill at Cedar Falls and Waterloo, IA. Check out Waverly's Rail Trail to Denver or Readlyn, Iowa, or the Rolling Prairie Trail which is less than one mile from the mill's front door in Shell Rock.

●LANDMARK. Come and stay in the comfort of our small town's landmark where grain was milled in the late 1800s through 1978. The mill is located two miles from The Avenue of the Saints, a four-lane highway which connects St. Louis, Missouri, and St. Paul, Minnesota.

▪︎NO PETS.
▪︎NO SMOKING.
▪︎FOLLOW CHECK-IN & CHECK-OUT INSTRUCTIONS, INCLUDING CONTACTING THE OWNER WHEN YOU ARRIVE AND WHEN YOU LEAVE.

THE MILL'S FIRST FLOOR on the street level is Vrbo property ID # 1056730 (Headline: 1867 Timber-framed Flour Mill's 1st Floor...) Under this ID you are renting the two-bedroom apartment.
•Private entrance.
•Two-night minimum stay. Three-night minimum for special rates OR during holiday, summer or seasonal events.
•Weekly rates available.
•Maximum six adults plus two small children if beds are shared OR children/teens sleep on air mattress and couch. No extra charge for children under 18.

■NOTE #2: The deck-level (aka balcony on second floor) is a studio apartment of The Pals' Old Mill. It is available separately under ID #1136016 (sleeps 6 if beds are shared).
RENT BOTH 1056730 and 1136016 for a gathering of friends or family! The inner stairway can be unlocked for direct access between the two levels.

AMENITIES
Central air & heat controlled within the space
Keurig single serve coffee maker
Drip or perk coffee pot
Belgian waffle maker
Grill (propane with electronic ignition)
Deck
Patio
Iron & board
Kitchen fully furnished
Dishes & utensils
Bed, Bath & Kitchen Linens & Towels provided (Bring your own beach towels)
Off-street parking
Washer & dryer
Hairdryer
Board games and cards.

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS & SERVICES - MOST WITHIN ONE MILE
ATM
Bank
Bar & Grill
Beauty salons
Bicycle Trails
Campground
Canoe & kayak rental (6.5 miles)
Churches
Convenience store with food including breakfast sandwiches, pizza & gas
Fishing
Golf within 10 minutes
Library
Medical Clinic (Hospital within 10 minutes)
Municipal swimming pool
University of Northern Iowa at Cedar Falls, Iowa, within 20 miles.
Wartburg College, Waverly, Iowa, within 10 minutes.
Casino, large waterpark, wrestling, art & science museums less than 30 miles in Cedar Falls and Waterloo, Iowa.

Property manager

Diana & Daryl Pals
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Water view

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House Rules

Check in after 12:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Supervise kids due to RIVER, stairs & street!
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Events

No events allowed
Preapproval required for small family gatherings.
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
NOT inside or within 25 ft of mill. Built in 1867
CALL when you arrive. CALL when you depart no matter what time it is. Thanks.
Follow "Check Out" list on refrigerator: strip bed linens. Leave by bed. Start dishwasher or wash dishes. Take trash & recycling to outside bins.
No burning candles or incense. No fireworks on property. No smoking inside, on deck, porches or patio. The Old Mill was built in 1867.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Preapproval required for small family gatherings.
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Shell Rock

Located in Shell Rock, this holiday home is in the city centre and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Shell Rock Wildlife Management Area and Shell Rock Bend Wildlife Management Area, while Shell Rock Historical Museum and Neumann Auditorium are cultural highlights. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and water tubing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with mountain biking and cycling.
Map
Shell Rock, IA

What's nearby

  • Shell Rock County Park - 12 min walk - 1.0 km
  • Wartburg College - 8 min drive - 9.1 km
  • Waverly Municipal Golf Course - 10 min drive - 10.0 km
  • UNI-Dome - 25 min drive - 34.5 km
  • University of Northern Iowa - 25 min drive - 34.6 km

Getting around

  • Waterloo, IA (ALO-Waterloo Regional) - 24 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Casey's General Store - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Casey's General Store - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Vfw Waverly - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Four Queens - ‬9 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is 1867 Timber-framed Flour Mill's 1st Floor Apartment Overlooks Shell Rock River pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at 1867 Timber-framed Flour Mill's 1st Floor Apartment Overlooks Shell Rock River?

Check-in begins at 12:00 PM.

What time is check-out at 1867 Timber-framed Flour Mill's 1st Floor Apartment Overlooks Shell Rock River?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is 1867 Timber-framed Flour Mill's 1st Floor Apartment Overlooks Shell Rock River located?

Located in the heart of Shell Rock, this holiday home is steps away from Hoyt Elliot Memorial Park and Benny Gambaiani Public Library. Shell Rock Historical Museum and Shell Rock Wildlife Management Area are also within 10 minutes.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 96 out of 104 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 104 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 104 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 104 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 104 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jeff R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Old Mill is a gem

We enjoyed our stay at the Old Mill. We rented the street-level apartment which was perfect for the four of us. The kids enjoye d the toys and we all had fun playing some board games. The place was very clean. There were some Asian beetles present but this was not unique to just this property. We saw them everywhere we went around Shell Rock, Waverly, Cedar Falls, etc. Just that time of the year. We would definitely stay again. saw them everyhey were
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Justine B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Small Town Vibes

Excellent views and location! This historic structure is so neat. We enjoyed our stay with friends and would definitely come back!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Linda s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Barn Tour weekend

Our second time at the Mill. Just as well he first time it was excellent
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Mike D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Old Mill

We enjoyed our stay in the historic mill on the Shell Rock River. It was a peaceful stay. There was a nice walking path along the river, and Waverly was only a few miles away for fun shopping and restaurants. Our favorite eateries wereThe Wild Carrot.and the Other Place.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Allison S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

First Time College Parents

We stayed here due to the close proximity to Waverly where our daughter is attending college as a Freshman. It was so convenient to be able to go back and forth for all of the activities planned for move-in weekend. Our younger children took advantage of fishing on the river and treated us to a fish fry at night.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Hannah P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relax by the Shell Rock River

As a guest here, lacked for nothing. Diana and Daryl were gracious in their welcome. Very reasonable rate, easy to clean up. The best part was having the rushing waters of the Shell Rock River right out the window. Like a lullabye.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Hannah S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Adorable

The Old Mill is an adorable space! Every detail has been thought of from the basket of snacks to the stocked coffee/tea bar to a gluten free waffle mix to the toiletries to yoga mats and kids toys! Everything we could possibly need was provided! The evenings listening to the sound of the damn just outside the home was so peaceful and the perfect way to relax after a busy day!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jon

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
Could use some new mattresses
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lori

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
The mill had a great atmosphere. We enjoyed the river, and the park next to the mill. The nice grill was a great benefit as well. The owners were very friendly and responsive.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Pamela

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
I enjoyed staying at the mill. It was very comfortable.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Peter B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Must stay at property.

The hospitality was above and beyond any expectation, communication was excellent. The cleanliness and everything was awesome! The view of the river was amazing. HIGHLY RECOMMEND STAYING HERE!!!!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Living in history

The history of this mill is incredible! Host thought of everything and created a warm, welcoming place to stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Allan W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Well-appointed

One of the nice things about staying here was the abundance of towel bars in the bathroom. Also the kitchen was very well supplied. We arrived early and were made to feel welcome while the owners finished preparing for our stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gary G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great ztay

Very nice
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Debra W., Rose Creek, MN

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Comfort

Unique, clean, charming. It’s like we got to spend the weekend at Grandma and Grandpa’s house.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Trudi D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved the setting and historic ambience

We found this the perfect place for our family as it was a home away from home while we attended a family reunion. It is very relaxing and the proprietors, Diane and Daryl went out of their way to make sure we were comfortable. We enjoyed our daily walks through the streets of Shell Rock, meeting and talking with friendly residents. The Mill's history and structure were very interesting and its setting on the Shell Rock River very pretty. My brother fished the Shell Rock, checking it of his bucket list. Our evenings were spent laughing and telling stories and reminiscing with cousins from Virginia that were staying in the 2nd floor unit. It was a great week.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Susan Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful weekend

A quiet, peaceful place, close to Cedar Falls. We think we saw an eagle in the park!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amanda R., St Paul, MN

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great historic stay

Wonderful property if you find yourself in ShellRock. Host does a wonderful job of providing the history of the mill.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Terri S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Shell Rock visit

We had a wonderful stay at the Shell Rock Mill. It is such a special property and we made wonderful family memories there!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Holly F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The mill

Such an abordable, cute, clean perfect place!! Perfect for a girls weekend.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Terri T., GRAFTON

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Water Works

Amazing stay at an incredible property. Family reunion that created unforgettable memories. The incredible waterfront view was a great backdrop with the waterworks of love surrounding us. Thank you for allowing us to enjoy your beautiful home.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Elisa E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to stay!

Daryl and Diana were excellent hosts. Everything needed for a most enjoyable stay was provided. The snacks, coffee and personalized note were such nice touches. We will definitely return to The Mill!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Stay

We go to Lost Island every year (Adult and two kids under 8) The Mill was so cute and cozy and she had so many amenities and extras available for us! She truly thought of everything. My ONLY complaint (and its small!!) is the tv in the living room only had basic cable, so we got like 6 channels and they were rough.... BUT we didn't come to watch tv and had netflix on our phones so it was no big deal. Husband and son caught a couple of fish off the river. It was a great time! Highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Laurie S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Trip Down Memory Lane

My sister and I were in town visiting our parents. We both grew up in Shell Rock and had always wanted to visit the Mill. Everything was very clean and all the amenities were paralleled. My sister and I were able to catch up and truly relax each evening. The hosts allowed us to tour all floors of The Mill and entertain family on the second floor deck, which truly delighted our Dad! The hosts couldn't have been more welcoming and generous with their time and recommendations. We are excited to bring our families back to stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

James B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice

Nice
Stayed 10 nights in May 2023

About the host

Hosted by Diana & Daryl Pals

Host profile image
Mill curator, lovers of early 1900's antiques and primitives. We enjoy nature, bicycling, kayaking and restoration of antiques and buildings. We want to share the mill's awesome ambience with others. We lived in the mill from 2002 through 2015.

Why they chose this property

Why did we buy this property in Shell Rock? Because the mill was here waiting for a new opportunity in its long life. The challenge was to take it from a shell with minimal electricity and no plumbing to an insulated, habitable residence while retaining the charm of the massive wooden beams. The previous owner purchased the mill when the business of milling animal feed closed in 1978. He focused on saving the mill from demolition by straightening it, then working from roof to foundation replacing shingles, siding, windows doors and mortar. Visitors remind us of the mill's awesome character which we now take for granted.

What makes this property unique

BENEFIT #1: Historic 1867 architecture! The craftsmanship is unparalled today with mortise and tenon construction. Massive beams, columns & their supports, "floating" floor joists are all visible. Drywall was hung & custom kitchen cabinets were built to leave structural wood exposed. Windows and doors throughout the mill are framed with wood flooring salvaged from the second floor level.
BENEFIT #2: Get away from the big city hustle and bustle. Enjoy nature. Relax by the river or on it! Walk onto the deck above the river. It will take your breath away! Listen to the rush of the river over the dam. First thing in the morning, gaze out at the river as it tumbles by. Experience Iowa's varied landscape and small town friendliness from the mill's comfortable, convenient location.
Kayak, canoe or fish just steps away from the mill. Boat launches are within one, five or fifteen minutes. If it is not high-water, you can even carry your kayak to the park next door, launch, paddle upstream and float back without getting in your truck! No kayak? No problem. Crawdaddy Outdoors rents them 6.5 miles away!
Over 100 miles of hard-surfaced trails are within one to 25 miles from the mill. A short one is two blocks away along the river at Rasmussen Park - great walk or ride! An eight-mile trail is one mile north of town. Motorcyclists can enjoy the abundance of scenic county highways in the area. Swimming is available year round - summer at the town pool & all year at "The W" six miles away at Wartburg.
BENEFIT #3: Wartburg College & University of Northern Iowa are 6 and 22 miles away with cultural and sporting events.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests