The village of Adams Mills was founded by George Willison Adams and Edward Adams. Around 1828, the brothers built a large flour mill along the Ohio & Erie Canal, near Locks # 29 and # 30. They purchased the surrounding land and provided it free of charge to their employees to build housing.

"No history of Muskingum County would be complete without mention of the honorable George W. Adams..."

"He was faultless in honor, fearless in conduct, and stainless in reputation..."

George Willison Adams traveled from Virginia to Ohio with his father in 1808. George was the largest land owner and leading stock raiser in Ohio for numerous years. He was a well-known abolitionist during the 19th century. His mansion, Prospect Place, was a stop on the Underground Railroad.