Logs from miles around were brought to the Blue River Veneer and Sawmill. Hundreds of logs floated in the surrounding mill pond as others were placed on rotary lathes and turned against a large blade to be peeled in one continuous roll. The veneer plant operated for 15 years before it closed in the late 1960s. The wigwam burner was removed and the millpond filled in. Ultimately the land was donated and turned into the McKenzie Community Track and Field.