Hoffman Mill Historic Site

Established in 1897, Hoffman Mill is a historic timber town and area, northeast of Harvey.

The Hoffman Mill camping site (currently closed) is at the location of the timber mill known as Hoffman No. 2.

Hoffman No. 1. was a mill site that operated from 18978 until 1917 when it burnt down.

They established Hoffman No. 2 in 1921, approximately 16km southeast of the original Hoffman No. 1. This mill operated until its closure in 1964 and was noted for its horizontal band saw.

At its peak, the town consisted of about 150 people. There were houses for married couples, huts for single men and a boarding house. The town was owned by the private company Millars Timber and Trading Co, which provided a general store that included the Post Office and Savings Bank. The town also had Mr Smith’s shop, where children could buy ‘lollies’, and he provided a billiard saloon and betting shop for the adults.

Millars also provided a hall where a travelling showman ran the movies once a fortnight, and they organised dances.

There was a cricket ground cleared and built by weekend busy bees, and three tennis courts were constructed of white ant heaps and clay. The Tennis Club was particularly well organised and well patronised.

When the mill ceased operating, the buildings were relocated or demolished.

A camping site and walking trails were established in the area. The site is currently closed as Alcoa conducts activities in the area.