Millrace discovery rekindles Paris’ industrial roots

The first photo from circa 1885 shows workers by the structural support of the raceway under Grand River Street. These semi-circular structures they’re working on served as the foundation for the brickwork over the raceway, supporting the street above. The recent photo, taken on June 3, 2025, shows remnants of the old millrace that once powered the thriving industrial mills beneath Grand River St. North.

By Chris Whelan

Editor

A remarkable glimpse into Paris, Ontario’s industrial past has emerged from beneath Grand River St. North, as the Downtown Dig project uncovers remnants of the original millrace that once powered the town’s 19th-century mills. 

While workers today dig to modernize utilities, their efforts have unexpectedly peeled back the layers of time. The unearthed brickwork and archways—once hidden infrastructure of Paris’ thriving mills—are prompting renewed public interest.

Excavation work photographed on June 3, 2025, is strikingly juxtaposed with an 1885 archival image, bridging past and present. The historic image showcases diligent workers toiling on the structural support of the raceway under Grand River Street, laying the foundation for the brickwork that connected the bustling community above. These semi-circular structures served as the backbone for the street, concealing the vital network of waterways that once powered Paris' industrial engines.

The Grand River Raceway, a pivotal source of power in the 19th century, sustained Paris' economy by driving water-powered mills that facilitated essential tasks like pounding gypsum into what became “Plaster of Paris”, grain grinding, lumber sawing, and cloth production. The raceway, with its two dams in the Nith River and a subterranean passage beneath Grand River St. North, symbolized the town's industrious spirit and ingenuity.

As the Downtown Dig progresses throughout 2025, Parisians are rekindling their connection with their town's industrial heritage. The revelation of the underground raceways has sparked conversations about Paris' mill town history and the innovative technologies that once thrived beneath the bustling streets.

The Wincey Mill and Penmans No. 1 Mill, towering testaments to Paris' industrial past, harnessed the power of rushing water to turn mill wheel turbines and generate energy through pulleys and cables. These mills, now repurposed as a vibrant market and stylish condominiums respectively, stand as living relics of a bygone era when water was the lifeblood of industry.

The discovery of the triple yellow brick archway beneath Grand River Street serves as a reminder of Paris' industrial legacy, thought to have been lost to time during previous urban development projects. The partial preservation of this architectural marvel amidst modern infrastructure developments underscores the importance of honouring and preserving the town's historical roots.

The ongoing partnership between the Downtown Dig initiative and The Paris Museum & Historical Society promises to shed further light on the significance of the raceway and its enduring impact on the local community. Through collaborative efforts and shared storytelling, Parisians are embracing their heritage while forging a path towards a vibrant and sustainable future.

Engaging with the Downtown Dig project is not just about unearthing relics of the past; it's a testament to the town's commitment to progress while preserving its cultural identity. By replacing aging infrastructure with modern utilities, including water, sewers, gas, fiber optic cable and electrical systems, Paris is ensuring that future generations can thrive in a community built on a foundation of history and innovation.

As the excavation continues to unveil hidden gems from Paris' industrial past, residents and visitors are invited to follow the Downtown Dig on social media platforms and engage with the project firsthand. Witnessing the convergence of history and modernity beneath the quaint streets of Paris is a rare opportunity to connect with a legacy that continues to shape the town's identity.

On social media area residents are actively engaging in discussions about the ongoing Downtown Dig project, particularly the unearthing of the old millrace remnants beneath Grand River St. North. People are expressing a mix of excitement and nostalgia, with some reminiscing about stories related to the mill race. There is a shared sentiment of appreciation for the historical significance of the discovery, with residents highlighting the importance of documenting and preserving these findings. 

Some individuals share personal connections to the excavation site, noting specific details such as the presence of brickwork and the collapse and filling in of the archway in the late 1980s. Others inquire about the potential unveiling of the old mill race or its archaeological evidence, demonstrating a keen interest in the historical aspects of the project. 

As Paris modernizes above ground, the Downtown Dig is unearthing more than infrastructure—it’s reigniting pride in a legacy of innovation, resilience and community spirit.