Balmoral Grist Mill Museum Reopens

An important part of Nova Scotia's industrial heritage will reopen on Saturday, Aug. 11, as a maintenance project nears completion at the Balmoral Grist Mill in Balmoral Mills, Colchester Co.

Visitors will have access to the entire museum interior, including an observation area where the miller will continue his work to restore the mill machinery to operating status. Although the mill is expected to resume flour production next year, there is a wonderful and rare opportunity to see the ancient craft of the millwright in action this season. Outside, the walkway across the dam remains closed to visitors while the stairways on either side are rebuilt.

"I encourage visitors to take a trip back in time and experience the mill and what life was like through the eyes of residents more than a century ago," said Leonard Preyra, Minister of Communities, Culture and Heritage. "This is what our museum system is all about, making life better for Nova Scotians by preserving our heritage for future generations."

Enhancements to the walking trails along the gorge and overlooking the mill provide an additional opportunity to experience the museum.

"This is a beautiful section of trail in the neighbouring woods which showcases the natural surroundings of this historical setting," said Mr. Preyra.

The museum was closed last August to allow for repairs to the museum's dam, walkway and support structure. Repairs were necessary to maintain safety and protect the natural environment of the museum and surrounding area. The total cost of the maintenance project was $1.1 million. Additional work was undertaken as a result of a structural assessment which identified $90,000 of improvements that are now complete.

Admission to the Balmoral Grist Mill is free for the rest of the month of August.

The museum was originally built in 1874 and is part of the Nova Scotia Museum, a network of 27 sites across the province.