Built in 1650 by William, the Second Duke of Hamilton, then resident in Strathaven Castle, the Town Mill was to play an integral part in the working life of Strathaven for three and a quarter centuries. After 1714 Strathaven Castle ceased to be occupied and soon fell into disrepair. The Mill, however, was kept in operation until the original building was destroyed by fire in 1820. Rebuilt with a slate roof, the Mill was given an added storey in 1877 to make room for a larger water wheel. In 1902 an iron gangway was built to connect the main building to the grain store. Water-wheel drive was replaced by a hydro-electric installation in 1935. Production ceased in 1966. The Town Mill is now owned and administered by Strathaven Arts Guild.