Harlow Bolton formed a partnership with Asa Varney and William H. Willis in 1853 to build the mill and a mill pond. Built in 1854, the mill, known for many years as the Reliance Roller Mills, was the first business in Boltonville. Wheat was the main cash crop of early settlers, and the mill ground grain and produced up to 24 barrels of flour a day. Today it still serves farmers and the general public by grinding grain and selling pet products and lawn and garden supplies. Harlow Bolton also platted “Bolton's Ville” and established the first general store and cheese factory.