From Silk Storage to Your Storage...

Although George's grandfather was the first Cheney to settle in these parts, it was George Cheney's eight sons who founded Cheney Brothers silk mills, once home to one of the largest silk weaving company in the nation.

Frank Cheney, one of the eight brothers, invented a machine for making silk thread which he patented in 1847.   As it has been described by Rebecca Furer, "the Cheney Brothers was not just a company, but a world of its own complete with the mill buildings, family homes, churches, schools, a fire station and library." 

While silk is no longer a main commodity as in the late 1800's, the mill buildings stand strong yet for other beneficial purposes to our community.  Many have made their home in some of the mill buildings, run their own small businesses in a few, house an area that celebrates the arts and community events, and even one that preserves Cheney history.

And coincidence or not, long ago, our historic mill building was a stop for a local train delivery of silk which was stored right here.  Originally used for the purpose of storage...silk storage...Cheney Mills will once again be connected to its original purpose. 

Storage.