Meet Appalachian’s Justin Metcalf

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    Honoring the Hands Behind the Stone

    At Marsh Hen Mill, we believe good food always carries a good story.

    One of the most meaningful relationships in our work is with Justin Metcalf at Appalachian’s Metcalf Mills. His family has lived on and cared for their land for eight generations, preserving Appalachian knowledge of farming, gardening, grain mills, and mountain wisdom. Everything he shares comes from a deep respect for place, history, and the belief that these traditions are meant to be a blessing.

    The Work Most People Never See

    Stone milling is not a static process. Over time, millstones dull and must be maintained to continue milling grain efficiently and gently. This maintenance is called dressing the stones. It is done by hand using a hammer, patience, and years of experience.

    Justin Metcalf comes from Mars Hill, North Carolina. He is the real thing. There is no performance, no polishing of personality for the camera. What you see is who he is. His knowledge lives in his hands, shaped by a lifetime of working with stone, grain, and time.

    We believe if more people could see this process and the care behind it, you will feel even more connected to the food and traditions that come from our mills.

    Watch and Learn

    These videos offer a rare glimpse into Appalachian life and traditional foodways that are still alive today.

    Justin Metcalf on YouTube:
    Browse his videos here

    Millstone Dressing:

    Shucking Corn in Appalachia:

    Keeping Traditions Alive

    Millstones like these do more than grind grain. They carry culture, memory, and a way of life that still has something important to teach us. At Marsh Hen Mill, we are grateful to work alongside Metcalf Mills and the people like Justin who keep these practices alive.

    We are honored to help share his story.

    © Marsh Hen Mill. Written in partnership and gratitude with Metcalf Mills.