[1] The dam is built in the valley of the Mill Brook, a right tributary of the Connecticut River.

The dam allowed water to be stored in the impound during the winter for release during lower flow seasons.

Water-powered mills have been used to save human labor since ancient times, but like all renewable energy resources, their power is not always available when needed.

[5] Sawmills were needed to provide boards for construction, and gristmills were necessary to ground grain into flour.

In post-colonial Vermont, these mills were essential for the building and food supply needs of the growing cities.

Water and ice falling over the crest and 40 feet (12 m) to the ledge below caused noise and vibrations throughout the village which concerned citizens.

Simeon Cobb and Joseph Mason were the contractors in charge of building the dam, and Allen Wardner, a prominent Windsor businessman and banker, superintended the work.

It is recommended that the owner engage the services of a qualified consultant to evaluate the stability of the dam.

The current policy of the state of Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation requires that only dams that are capable of impounding more than 500,000 cubic feet (14,000 m3) need to be inspected.

[9] In the twentieth century, a concrete coping was placed on top of the structure to help ensure its stability in times of flood.

In fact, Windsor County, Vermont is home to a total of 202 mountain summits and peaks.

Because of all this, the timing of opening and closing the dam to regulate flow and produce hydroelectric power was important.