Settlers homesteaded in this area beginning in 1865. A feed and flour mill was built in the early 1870's, with power from a large wooden dam across Split Rock Creek east of this point. A town, complete with three stores, livery barn, blacksmith shop, drug store, hotel in a home, and a school, grew in the vicinity of the mill. The railroad was completed in 1888. Silver was discovered downstream from this point in 1886, and over 300 claims were staked. The shaft of the mine, Merrimac Lode, can still be seen. In 1889 the town of Garretson was started at the junction of two railroads, and buildings were moved from Palisades to that location. The mill foundation, mill race, and tie bolts for the dam remain to mark the site of this pioneer village.