Creation Date

1893

Description

This is a painting of the mill dam in Preston by local artist A. L. Sleyster in 1893. In an advertisement about the painting, the newspaper stated, "A. L. Sleyster has again shown that he is a real artist. This time he has produced a magnificent oil painting of the Root River and Environments, looking west from the bridge. The painting is correct in every detail. The colors are appropriate and pleasing. It is a handsome picture, creditable to the artist and worthy of a place in the finest home in the land. Mr. Sleyster will sell it at a bargain. But it will pay you to step into his gallery and take a look at the painting whether you wish to become a buyer or not. Mr. S. is always pleased to see  you."

The painting shows a man on the left side of the dam fishing in peace. Behind him is the wooden bracing for the dam. Across from him, the land is higher, and a retaining wall has been built out of river rock, braced with wood logs. Trees rise above and below the dam, towering above the man and river in some cases due to the sloping hills. They continue in the distance. Just before the river disappears, there is a house standing in an open space on the left side of the river. The painting is still in its original frame made of simple wood, planed but not sanded, and painted gold.