Simmons Mill Pond is a privately-owned lake encompassing approximately 200 acres. The original dam was built with hand labor in the early 1800’s. The lake was built to provide a source of energy to run various mills, from which we get the name Mill Pond. The first mill to utilize the hydro-power was a cotton gin and was operational until the late 1800’s.
Following the closing of the cotton gin a saw mill was operated into the early 1900’s. Some of the boards cut at the saw mill, referred to as slabs, still exist under the water in an area of the raceway we have always called the, “slab pile”. Later a grits mill was built and was actively operated by our family through the great depression and until 1940. To support the grits mill, a large building referred to as the “Mill House” was constructed over the spillway system to house the corn and provide shelter for the grits mill.
The Mill House was remodeled in the early 1950’s adding a large commercial kitchen, open floor space and a “jukebox” for entertainment to accommodate a new trend toward recreational activities such boating, water skiing, speed boat racing and even several Cypress Garden Florida Ski shows as a benefit for the Hospital Auxiliary at the original Bulloch County Hospital. Lights were installed around the lake to allow for night skiing while listening to the music of those dancing in the mill house. During this time on most Saturdays and Sundays in late spring and summer, there would be as many as 15 boats pulling skiers around the lake and families representing 150 or more people sun bathing and enjoying the pond.
In 1966 the Mill House was destroyed as the original gate system and foundation gave way to the stress and pressures of holding so much water over the years.
For the next 23 years, except for a few low spots with active springs and the two runs that come through the pond from two major water sheds from the South and the South West, the pond was void of water and the thriving activities of enjoyment by so many people. During this time the State condemned a large portion of the south part of the pond for a right-of way to accommodate the construction of Interstate 16. Even though a very large and beautiful part of the pond’s landscape would be changed forever, we must sometimes sacrifice for progress for the benefit of ourselves and others. The interstate was opened through Bulloch County on September 22nd, 1978 and it wasn’t until mid July of 1989 that we were able to complete the construction of the new spillway that exists today. Following its completion, excitement began to build with so many as the pond began to rise, inch by inch, over the following months and we were grateful to see our first full head of water on November 29 of the same year.
The pond has always been a gathering place. Some people came to work, some came to fish, mostly out of necessity but a few for pleasure, and others just came to visit or on many occasions observe a Baptism on a Sunday afternoon. Simmons Mill Pond has been a memorable part of the heritage of Bulloch County. We hope the pond can continue to be a place where people gather, hopefully today just to enjoy the views, to rest and relax as they have done from time to time over the past 150 years or more.
In an effort to properly manage the pond and to enhance the quality and quantity of fish and fish habitat, we decided to offer on a limited basis, annual fishing passes. This annual pass will be referred to as a Fishing Club Membership. Each year, existing members in good standing will be invited to renew their membership. Membership applications will be reviewed and approved or denied at the discretion of the Simmons Family. It is the intent of the family to seek compatible families and individuals who will enjoy not only the fishing but the tranquility and peacefulness of the pond. The rules and regulations as established by management will be strictly enforced.
We have concluded that so long as our family can continue to enjoy this valued asset and share it with others, we will do so. It is our desire for others to enjoy this resource and realize its pleasures and beauty as we have for several generations.
Welcome to Simmons Mill Pond, we value and respect its treasures and we trust you will do the same.
