The Backhouse Grist Mill is competing in nationwide contest offering $65,000 in cash.
A historic Port Rowan landmark is getting a chance at new life, and the community’s support could make all the difference.
The Backhouse Grist Mill is competing in nationwide contest offering $65,000 in cash prizes to help protect and restore historic places.
That was Jessica King, the Social Media and Marketing Associate for the Long Point Region Conservation Authority.
The competition includes a $50,000 grand prize, along with runner-up prizes of $10,000 and $5,000, aimed at supporting projects that preserve and revitalize heritage sites for future generations.
Built in 1798, the Backhouse Grist Mill is one of the oldest surviving water-powered mills in Canada and has been designated a National Historic Site.
Chloe Anna, Curator for the Long Point Region Conservation Authority tells us that despite its resilience-surviving the War of 1812 and centuries of wear-the building is now facing serious structural challenges.
That was Jessica King, Social Media and Marketing Associate with the Long Point Region Conservation Authority.
The competition offers a $50,000 grand prize, with $10,000 and $5,000 for runners-up, supporting projects that preserve and revitalize heritage sites.
Built in 1798, the Backhouse Grist Mill is one of Canada’s oldest surviving water-powered mills and a National Historic Site.
Curator Chloe Anna says despite surviving the War of 1812 and centuries of wear, the building now faces serious structural challenges.
At the time of writing this article, the Grist Mill sits in third place.
Both Anna and King are hoping that the community take time out of their day to show their support.
The mill’s story is deeply tied to the region's early settlement.
John Backhouse acquired the land in 1796 and built the mill two years later. It operated for nearly 160 years, producing flour and animal feed until closing in 1956.
Its survival is remarkable. During the War of 1812, many Lake Erie mills were destroyed, but the Backhouse Grist Mill was spared—whether by deception, negotiation, or luck remains local lore.
Today, supporters say preserving the mill is about more than a building—it’s about protecting shared history for future generations.
Vote here: https://nextgreatsave.us.launchpad6.com/NextGreatSave2026
