About Us

The Millstad property has a rich history dating back to the late 1600s, when it was part of the Dunkale estate. Today, pieces of that history can still be seen throughout the grounds, including remnants of the estate entrance and spring house.

Over the next two centuries, the estate was divided into smaller parcels, and by the mid-1800s, the land now known as The Millstad had become a working farm. During that time, The Great Hall originally served as a bank barn, built with sturdy stone walls, a trussed roof, narrow windows, and a cast-iron bell.

In 1908, the property began a new chapter centered around children’s education and recreation. One acre became home to the Dunkale School, a one-room schoolhouse that had 20 students by 1919. The remaining acreage was transformed into a camp by the Children’s Fresh Air Society of Baltimore, offering city children a place to enjoy fresh air, recreation, and summer experiences. The camp included nature trails, cabins, a theater, baseball fields, a basketball court, and a creek-fed swimming pool — now a concrete Olympic-sized pool.

In 1977, the Hegstad family purchased the property and continued its tradition as a place for events, activities, and community gathering.

Most recently, The Millstad was acquired by owners dedicated to preserving its history while creating new opportunities for the community to come together. Today, the property is home to weddings, receptions, private events, sports activities, camps, retreats, and local businesses including Harford Gymnastics, Harford Cheer, and others.

Over the last few years, The Millstad has continued to grow and improve with upgrades to the sports fields, cabins, The Great Hall, and more — all with the goal of better serving the community for years to come!