Four generations of the Brown family ran Houghton Mill for nearly one hundred years from 1797. During this period the mill increased in size, productivity and value, and provided employment for many villagers.

The Browns of Houghton
Potto Brown is chiefly remembered for his entrepreneurial activities and philanthropic character. He was born in the village and lived in the Miller's House until his death, aged 74, in 1871.

Through his efforts Houghton gained a new school in the 1830s, a chapel in the 1840s and the Victorian 'Gothic' water pump on the Green. He also provided allotments for local men and actively promoted the Temperance movement and religious tolerance.

His son, Bateman, records that he prayed daily that he might be 'acute in business, successful at market and able to make money' and that he took his account books to chapel to request God's assistance in making his debtors pay their bills.

Under Potto's direction the milling business thrived. The Browns built steam mills at St Ives in 1854 and at Godmanchester in 1862, introducing the latest milling technology, much of it of French origin, into their mills. Potto's sons and grandson all entered the family business.