The Hellertown Historical Society (HHS) has announced that the Heller-Wagner Grist Mill, located at 150 West Walnut Street in Hellertown, has been officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The recognition, confirmed by the National Park Service in August 2025, honors the site’s cultural, architectural, and historical significance dating back to the mid-1700s.
Built in 1761 by Simon Heller and later owned by Christopher “Stoffel” Wagner, the grist mill played a vital role in supporting agriculture and community life in Hellertown and the Saucon Valley. Its inclusion in the NRHP marks the culmination of a three-year effort led by HHS volunteers, historians, and preservation experts.
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- Courtesy of the Hellertown Historical Society
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- Courtesy of the Hellertown Historical Society
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- Courtesy of the Hellertown Historical Society
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- Courtesy of the Hellertown Historical Society
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- Courtesy of the Hellertown Historical Society
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- Courtesy of the Hellertown Historical Society
The nomination process began with research by HHS volunteer Chip Wagner, a direct descendant of Stoffel Wagner. It gained momentum through the HHS Board of Directors and received unanimous endorsement from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission in June 2025 before moving forward to the National Park Service for final approval.
“This recognition is a milestone not only for the Historical Society but for the entire Hellertown community,” said Donald Mills, President of HHS. “The grist mill connects us to the lives of those who built this town more than 250 years ago. Being included in the National Register ensures that future generations will understand and appreciate the role this site played in shaping our region’s history.”
The designation was achieved in partnership with Artefact, Inc., a local preservation firm, and with strong community support, including donations from individuals, the Borough of Hellertown, and a $10,000 Keystone Grant.
For additional details, visit Hellertown Historical Society or view the full announcement here. Updates are also available on the Hellertown Historical Society Facebook page.
For more information, contact: info@hellertownhistoricalsociety.org
