New Ibiera, Louisiana has long been a center of rice production. On the east side of town is the Conrad Rice Mill, the country’s oldest rice mill still in production. They have been processing rice here since 1912.
The production facility consists of a few old metal buildings, which have a great weathered look.
Next door is a general store that they start their tours from, as well as sell a number of their products. Our tour was lead by a veteran of the more than 40 years with the company.
The interior looks like it should – nearly all vintage equipment.
While there are a number of different types of rice grown and processed, the Conrad Rice Mill only processes short and medium.
It is always good to see buildings continue to be used for their original purpose into a second century, and with new owners it appears the Conrad Rice Mill will continue for years to come.
RDZ Photography 