Spencerville Mill Launches Challenging “Rise-Up” Campaign
By 1812 Peleg Spencer had built a saw Mill on the South Nation River and within ten years added a grist Mill. After being gutted by fire a couple of times the Mill was rebuilt within the existing stone walls – a rise-up effort that continues today.
Under its last owner Ted Barnard, the Mill continued to operate until 1972. But after being abandoned for 20 years, the Mill and dam had deteriorated badly. Local residents were determined to restore this charming historic landmark despite challenges such as a stone wall tumbling into the river, mice and other creatures occupying the interior and just about everything requiring strong armed reparation.
Between 1997 and 2012, government grants and generous donations from individuals made it possible to rebuild the dam, complete major masonry and timber restoration and install a new roof. But just as restoration was finally done, a big new issue arose – a fire escape costing about $100,000 had to be funded and constructed before the Mill could open to the public. And it was -- thanks in large part to a long-time resident who helmed the project by inviting everyone he knew to contribute. Perhaps invigorated by Barnard’s favourite slogan – Grow or Bust.
In 2015, the Mill Foundation, local politicians and volunteers celebrated the completion of the upper level which is now available for events, special exhibits and rentals, primarily weddings. With time to reflect on a welcoming and wonderful heritage structure, a new consideration emerged – inclusion!
It was clear that those with disabilities, aging bones or confined to a wheel chair cannot climb the stairs. With a commitment to provide access for all, the Mill Foundation now needs to install an elevator to the second floor while ensuring that this modern device is dove-tailed carefully into a 19th century environment. To achieve this, another Rise-Up campaign estimated to cost $100,000 is needed though this one will be much more fun.
Starting in April, the Spencerville Mill Foundation is inviting area companies, businesses, agencies and individuals to contribute to this challenge with a financial donation of $250, $500, $1,000 or more. Donors will receive a full tax receipt.
Interested patrons and friends can also help the Foundation to reach the fundraising goal by purchasing tickets to a gala fundraising dinner at the Spencerville Mill on Saturday June 24. Tickets are $100 per person or diners can reserve a table for eight at a cost of $90 per person. Total seating is 80 people. Dinner guests will receive a tax receipt for a portion of their tickets. Those who cannot attend the dinner may consider sponsoring the cost of a portion of the event such as cocktails, dinner wine, entertainment or table settings.
This special event is a “roaring twenties” themed evening which is not to be missed. With visions of flappers, speakeasies and bootleggers in mind, guests will enjoy vintage cocktails – think Bees Knees, Singapore Slings or a Gin Rickey – along with fine dining that continues with live jazz, provided by Sue Baker and the Rhythm Makers, dancing, and a few fun surprises throughout the evening. Guests are invited to attend in full 1920s attire if they wish.
This kind of fanciful entertainment is likely not what Peleg Spencer or Ted Barnard ever envisioned but it does jive with their enduring conviction that the Mill was a major endeavour worth saving – at first as a business, then as a necessity for the local community and then as an iconic treasure for all,
As time goes by, all those who visit can rest assured that history continues to live and breathe in Spencerville.
Under its last owner Ted Barnard, the Mill continued to operate until 1972. But after being abandoned for 20 years, the Mill and dam had deteriorated badly. Local residents were determined to restore this charming historic landmark despite challenges such as a stone wall tumbling into the river, mice and other creatures occupying the interior and just about everything requiring strong armed reparation.
Between 1997 and 2012, government grants and generous donations from individuals made it possible to rebuild the dam, complete major masonry and timber restoration and install a new roof. But just as restoration was finally done, a big new issue arose – a fire escape costing about $100,000 had to be funded and constructed before the Mill could open to the public. And it was -- thanks in large part to a long-time resident who helmed the project by inviting everyone he knew to contribute. Perhaps invigorated by Barnard’s favourite slogan – Grow or Bust.
In 2015, the Mill Foundation, local politicians and volunteers celebrated the completion of the upper level which is now available for events, special exhibits and rentals, primarily weddings. With time to reflect on a welcoming and wonderful heritage structure, a new consideration emerged – inclusion!
It was clear that those with disabilities, aging bones or confined to a wheel chair cannot climb the stairs. With a commitment to provide access for all, the Mill Foundation now needs to install an elevator to the second floor while ensuring that this modern device is dove-tailed carefully into a 19th century environment. To achieve this, another Rise-Up campaign estimated to cost $100,000 is needed though this one will be much more fun.
Starting in April, the Spencerville Mill Foundation is inviting area companies, businesses, agencies and individuals to contribute to this challenge with a financial donation of $250, $500, $1,000 or more. Donors will receive a full tax receipt.
Interested patrons and friends can also help the Foundation to reach the fundraising goal by purchasing tickets to a gala fundraising dinner at the Spencerville Mill on Saturday June 24. Tickets are $100 per person or diners can reserve a table for eight at a cost of $90 per person. Total seating is 80 people. Dinner guests will receive a tax receipt for a portion of their tickets. Those who cannot attend the dinner may consider sponsoring the cost of a portion of the event such as cocktails, dinner wine, entertainment or table settings.
This special event is a “roaring twenties” themed evening which is not to be missed. With visions of flappers, speakeasies and bootleggers in mind, guests will enjoy vintage cocktails – think Bees Knees, Singapore Slings or a Gin Rickey – along with fine dining that continues with live jazz, provided by Sue Baker and the Rhythm Makers, dancing, and a few fun surprises throughout the evening. Guests are invited to attend in full 1920s attire if they wish.
This kind of fanciful entertainment is likely not what Peleg Spencer or Ted Barnard ever envisioned but it does jive with their enduring conviction that the Mill was a major endeavour worth saving – at first as a business, then as a necessity for the local community and then as an iconic treasure for all,
As time goes by, all those who visit can rest assured that history continues to live and breathe in Spencerville.
