The area is rich in history, from deaths by Indian attacks on early settlers (visit “Plain and Simple” cache where I explain a death by Indian attack at Ely’s Branch) to Hee-Haw cast member Roni Stoneman getting hitched on the front porch of Blevins’s Country Store during the Preston Court Day festival (or did she?). This area was settled before Bath County was even established. Mill Creek was named after a grist mill, built near here, which was running during the earliest years of white settlers being in this area. The name of the mill proprietor has been lost to history.
Early on this area was known for its rich iron ore deposits. At least until much larger deposits were discovered around the Great Lakes. The nearby Bourbon, or Slate, Furnace famously provided cannonballs, grapeshot, and other ammunition for Andrew Jackson at the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812.
FTF goes to markandval. This should be a very easy find. Parking is within forty feet or so of the cache. Be sure to pull completely off of the road as it can be a bit busy sometimes. As with any cache near water, woods, weeds, and rocks, be aware that you may encounter wildlife, including snakes and ticks. The footing is loose so be careful on the descent.