This postcard, recently coloured, is the earliest photo of a Rawdon mill that I have found. It was was mentioned in George Copping’s in his journal in 1836.
Built in 1836 by Archambault on lots 15 and 16 of the 5th range the miil was passed down through the family.
Mills, both flour and lumber, were of prime importance to the community. The many rivers in the township allowed for several mills in the area. As previously noted, Dugas and Manchester had mills in the lower ranges. Archambault, Boyce, and Mason had mills on the outskirts of the village. Later several more mills were added to the number, Magnan, Boulanger, Morin all had mills.
Circa 1817, at least 3 mills had been built on the Red River alongside ranges 1 and 2, by Philemon and Isaac Dugas and Peter (Pierre) Richard. Philemon bought his two associates out and now had 3 mills. Unfortunately I have found no sketches of these early mills.
Rawdon was known for having many mills throughout the settlement, at least 12 were in operation at one point.
Mills, both flour and lumber, were of prime importance to the development of a community. The many rivers in the township allowed for several mills in the settlement. As previously noted, Dugas and Manchester had mills in the lower ranges.
Originally known as the Archambault Mill was on lots 15 & 16 on the 5th range, was near the edge of what became the village.
THE BOYCE MILL
This grist mill, known as Boyce’s Mill, on the Ouareau River, below Magnan Falls, was purchased in 1866 by William Smith from the estate of Charles Grant. William died in 1872, his widow, Ann Boyce, ran the mill until the mortgage was paid. In 1891 the census lists the farm and mill as being operated by Richard Boyce, Ann Boyce’s nephew. This family photo, circa 1890, shows the bridge, (built by Richard) the mill, farm buildings and house.
THE MASON MILL
THE MASSUE MILL
Massue Mill was at the corner of 4th and Metcalfe where the Cenotaph now stands. Built on the bank above the Red River, the sawdust was sent over the bank. A fire caught in the sawdust and it is said the fire burnt for 3 years. June 5,1887 15 year old Thomas Cameron was one of three boys drowned while playing in the caves created by the river washing into the pile of sawdust.
It is interesting to note that this mill produced spindles, decorative rails for stairs, legs for furniture, etc.
THE COPPING MILL
This was an early steam powered mill in Rawdon. As an engineer Selwyn had an engineering permit that was required to operate a steam engine. Selwyn installed and repaired steam engines at at various lumber camps throughout Quebec without sufficient water to power mills.
THE BELANGER MILL
This was the last mill built in Rawdon. I have found very little information for this one. I would appreciate hearing from anyone who can contribute to this story.