Backus Mill needs public assistance for restoration work

With its age now surpassing 225 years, Backus Mill is in need of restorative work so it can open again for the public. The first step in the process is an engineer’s assessment, and the Long Point Region Conservation Authority is hoping The Next Big Save can assist with funding it. Members of the public are asked to vote daily to assist with funding for this regional historical landmark. (Chris Abbott Photo)

Jeff Helsdon, Editor

Backus Mill needs the public’s assistance to be the “Next Great Save.”

The centrepiece of Long Point Region Conservation Authority’s Backus Heritage Conservation Area, and a National Historic Site, the mill did what no other structure of its type did on the north shore of Lake Erie by surviving the War of 1812. Several theories exist as to why the mill wasn’t burned by invading American forces during the war, but the structure now faces a new challenge: structural issues associated with its 225-year-plus age.

“The architectural and structural assessment that we obtained recommends that the mill needs a comprehensive engineering report, temporary structural shoring, and drainage improvements, among various other repairs,” said curator Chloe Anna. “LPRCA’s priority is to obtain a full structural review and to re-grade the gravel around the building to restore proper drainage and prevent water accumulation to mitigate further deterioration.”

Enter the Next Great Save.

The Next Great Save is a national program that provides funding to help protect cherished heritage structures. Funded by Ecclesiastical Insurance, the program provides $65,000 in annual funding, with a first prize of $50,000, second prize of $10,000, and third prize of $5,000. The winner is determined by online voting at nextgreatsave.com between April 7 and 24.

“We strongly encourage people to vote once every day during the duration of the competition and to share the news with everyone they know to maximize the amount of potential votes for the mill,” said Jessica King, LPRCA’s marketing and social media associate.

An online donation campaign is also being coordinated at https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/144784

Anna explained there is no estimated cost yet, as the engineering report will provide the next steps, and at that time, a cost estimate can be completed. Previous restoration work on the mill was completed in 2015 and 2019.

The mill is a vital part of the Backus Heritage Conservation Area, which attracts thousands of visitors annually, and is also the site of school day programs. It is a prominent feature in the annual War of 1812 re-enactment, and tours were offered of the interior until the mill had to be closed due to structural issues.

“The Backhouse Grist Mill is an extraordinary National Historic Site, surviving war, weather, and technological changes,” Anna said. “It is a time capsule of ingenuity and tells the story of an important family legacy, and the labours of the local community. Today, the mill is a landmark for our local community, acting as a place for people to share interests, values, and history.”

Tillsonburg Deputy Mayor Dave Beres, the town representative on LPRCA’s board, spoke of the importance of this campaign.

“It’s so important to keep our history alive and every vote counts. Vote every day and tell your friends to do the same,” he said.