Mill Exhibits
The Spencerville Mill is always adding more exhibits and displays to its already existing collection. This preview will show you some of our stationary displays as well as preview our plans for the Mill in coming years.
Main Level
This level of the Mill is fully wheelchair accessible and showcases how the grist operation was run as well as why the Spencerville Mill was so successful due to its location and approximation to various trade routes. You can see the single roller mill run using the turbine water power, and feel the floor vibrate with the rotations. On this floor we also have Barnard’s Emporium where visitors can get the feel for an old fashioned general store and purchase a souvenir of their visit. This level also currently houses our Family History Exhibit which features local Cleary family.
Lower Level
This part of the Mill is used to demonstrate various ways in which waterpower is harnessed and used to make the machinery and elevators move. The interactive over-shot and under-shot water wheels allow visitors to visualize primitive techniques, while the mini turbine gives an idea of how the Mill was powered after the 1930s when it was installed.
The other side of the lower level highlights various community businesses and farming implements found during the 1930s. These projects were completed over time by our summer students. Other displays include: Ice Harvesting, The Blacksmith, an Icebox, and more.
Upper Level
This level displays our historic exhibits and artifacts related to the community of Spencerville. This spacious area is also used for community and Mill events.
Game On: The History of Recreation and Sport Exhibit
For generations, recreation and sport have helped shape the identity of Spencerville and Edwardsburgh Township. From frozen rivers and homemade skating rinks to championship baseball teams and nationally recognized athletes, local sports have brought neighbours together, inspired community pride, and created traditions that continue to this day.
This exhibit exclusively discusses sports and recreation. It explores more than 140 years of local sporting history through photographs, artifiacts, and more. It holds equipment from sports such as hockey, figure skating, baseball, football, lacrosse, and more. Each sign briefly discusses a different sport and how it impacted Spencerville and Edwardsburgh Township.
This exhibit is located on the upper level of the Mill.
Support the Mill
Having successfully preserved the last remaining mill on the South Nation River for the past 30 years, the Spencerville Mill Foundation is facing a new challenge. To fulfill its role as a community hub, the mill must be inclusive and accessible to the entire community.
