Shade was employed by GW as his wagoner until the end of 1774 (General Ledger A description begins General Ledger A, 1750–1772. Library of Congress, George Washington Papers, Series 5, Financial Papers. description ends , folio 331; General Ledger B description begins General Ledger B, 1772–1793. Library of Congress, George Washington Papers, Series 5, Financial Papers. description ends , folio 39).

The Piney Branch dam had also been completed, and water could now be diverted from the branch into the race.

Dry sand was being ground between the new millstones “to smooth down the sharp points” on their faces. When the faces were fully finished and fitted together, they would be furrowed and dressed for grinding grain (craik [1] description begins David Craik. The Practical American Millwright and Miller: Comprising the Elementary Principles of Mechanics, Mechanism, and Motive Power, Hydraulics, and Hydraulic Motors, Mill Dams, Saw-Mills, Grist-Mills, the Oat-Meal Mill, the Barley Mill, Wool Carding and Cloth Fulling and Dressing, Windmills, Steam Power, etc. Philadelphia, 1870. description ends , 298–99). The forebay was a deep reservoir at the end of the millrace, from which water was taken to run the waterwheel.