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Ontario Road Trip: Welbeck Mennonite Shingle Mill

Bentinck, Ontario


Leaving the Bruce Peninsula, I was slowly making my way to Niagara Falls, where I would meet up with two friends. I still had several days and no particular plan or route in mind, as is typical for me when I'm road tripping. While driving south along Highway 6, I saw a sign advertising the Welbeck Mennonite Shingle Mill. I was totally intrigued and decided that this would be a great little stop along my route. I followed the signs from Owen Sound for about a 30-minute drive to arrive at this charming water mill in the Township of Bentinck.

Wooden wall with a window and a sign reading "Welbeck Shingle Mill Visitors Welcome." Sunlight reflects on the window panes.
Welcome to the Welbeck Shingle Mill

The original water mill, built in the late 1800s, provided milling services for a wide range of lumber needs, including planks, siding, and shingles. Over the years, multiple fires and economic downturns caused many changes in the sawmill's fortunes. Still, the mill and the business survived all difficulties until November 1966, when a fire completely destroyed the water-powered mill.

Wooden water mill with red wheel by a stream, surrounded by lush greenery and sunlight.
A fresh and cool stop on a hot sunny day

Stacks of hay bales and packed cardboard boxes in a barn setting. Sunlight filters in from an open doorway revealing green foliage outside.
Peeking inside the mill

The following year, federal funding for Canada's Centennial celebrations was used to construct a new mill using both diesel and electric power. In 1984, the water-powered Shingle Mill was restored.

Red waterwheel turns beside a wooden structure, surrounded by lush greenery and a calm stream. Sunlight casts shadows.

Today, the Shingle Mill continues to produce Ontario White Cedar shingles and offers tours and educational trips for visitors. No one was around the day I visited to give me a tour or fill in details, so I wandered freely. The Mill is free to visit — perfect for budget travellers.

Wooden shingle mill with an open front, sign reading "Village Shingle Mill." Surrounded by trees in daylight. Weathered exterior.

I love discovering lesser-known places to explore by following road signs to some lovely local museums, parks, or historical sites. What little gems have you found by just following road signs? Do you have any tips to share?


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