MITCHELL – The recently completed $30 million renovation of the historic Spring Mill Inn in Spring Mill State Park has been honored with the Renaissance Award by Indiana Landmarks, according to a press release from Indiana Landmarks. This prestigious award recognizes the State of Indiana’s significant commitment to preserving the 1939 limestone inn.
The inn officially reopened its doors in December 2024, marking the conclusion of a two-year-long rehabilitation project that focused on modernizing the building while enhancing accessibility and meticulously preserving its historic character. Glenroy Construction served as the general contractor, ensuring the renovation respected the inn’s original features.
Notable improvements include the installation of a ramp in the lobby to provide access to a new reception desk, with careful preservation and repair of the historic oak paneling. Drop ceilings, added in the 1960s, were removed in the lobby and dining room, revealing original concrete beams that were stained during the inn’s construction to resemble wood. Guests will also benefit from new heating and cooling systems, updated plumbing, and refreshed furnishings, fixtures, paint, and carpet in all guest rooms.
This extensive project marks the first comprehensive renovation of the inn since it first opened over 80 years ago. Funding for the renovation came from a $100 million allocation by the State of Indiana to the Department of Natural Resources, earmarked for addressing deferred maintenance across state parks. The design team, including The Engineering Collaborative, Ratio Design, and Lawson-Elser Engineering Consultants, collaborated closely with the state Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology to ensure the inn’s historical integrity was upheld.
“The revitalization of this wonderful state park landmark shows it is possible to make historic places inclusive for all Hoosiers,” stated Gregory Fehribach, Indiana Landmarks’ board chair.
In addition to the inn’s makeover, repairs to the park’s iconic 1817 grist mill were completed this spring. The popular attraction, where visitors can observe the mill in operation and purchase ground cornmeal, required extensive work after one of its gears became misaligned in 2021. Repairs included replacing the shaft, water wheel, and other mechanical components. The wooden flume, which supplies water to the giant wheel, was also reconstructed using poplar wood salvaged from trees damaged by a 2023 tornado at McCormick’s Creek State Park.
Brad Ward, president of Indiana Landmarks, commended the State’s investment: “We are pleased to recognize the State’s forward-looking investment in restoring such a beloved public landmark. Our state parks are important historic and natural assets, and projects like this ensure they will continue to enrich generations to come.”
Karen Hinton, Deputy Director for Inn Operations and Hospitality at Indiana State Parks, expressed her appreciation for the outcome. “Our drive to preserve Indiana history and provide a great experience for all of our guests has come together perfectly through our complete renovation of the Spring Mill Inn,” she said. Today, our guests enjoy a modern stay that also reflects the inn’s rich history of over 80 years. We’re thankful for the financial support we received from the Indiana General Assembly that made this restoration possible, and we welcome all Hoosiers to come see the inn for yourself.”
Indiana Landmarks will formally present the Renaissance Award at its annual meeting and awards event in Indianapolis on September 6.
