The Long Point Region Conservation Authority is calling on residents to support a cherished local site.
Apr 02, 2026 • Last updated Apr 02, 2026 •
The Backhouse Grist Mill, found at the Backus Heritage Conservation Area in Port Rowan, is among the top 12 finalists for the Next Great Save competition, with a grand prize of $50,000. Photo by LPRCA
The Long Point Region Conservation Authority needs community support to help save a cherished local landmark.
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This week, the authority announced that the Backhouse Grist Mill, situated at the Backus Heritage Conservation Area in Port Rowan, is one of twelve finalists in the Next Great Save competition. This contest is run by the National Trust for Canada and offers a grand prize of $50,000 to help protect or improve heritage sites across Ontario.
<p“Winning the Next Great Save would directly fund the first major steps needed to save the mill: a comprehensive engineering report, temporary structural shoring and drainage improvements,” noted the release. “These actions must happen before any further restoration can begin. A vote for Backhouse is a vote for real, immediate, shovel‑ready impact.”
The mill became a National Historic Site and was built back in 1798. It features two centuries’ worth of milling technology and includes original machinery. It’s also central to the property’s historic village that hosts programs, tours and community events year-round. The last time it operated commercially was by the Backus (Backhouse) family in 1956; it’s one of just a few mills along Lake Erie that survived during the Battle of 1812.
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A background piece about the mill posted on the Next Great Save website shares: “There are a number of stories as to how the Backhouse Mill escaped destruction. Maybe the Norfolk Militia set up bonfires to fool American troops into thinking it was already burning. Maybe John Backhouse negotiated with Americans to spare it. Or perhaps American troops simply didn’t find it. Whatever happened, this mill went on serving its community for nearly 160 years.”
Unfortunately due to structural problems, visitors won’t be able to tour the mill in 2026.
“It’s very unique – it’s probably one of the most historical mills around,” said Doug Brunton, Norfolk County councillor and chairman of Long Point Region Conservation Authority. “Hopefully we get that $50k so we can restore it and make it operational again.”
David Beres, deputy mayor of Tillsonburg and longtime conservation authority board member mentioned how much educational value this mill provides for children of all ages.
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“It’s really something special to see history come alive,” he said.
The competition runs from April 7 through April 27 allowing one vote per person each day. After their latest meeting on April 1 members have been encouraged to spread information about this competition widely.
“We’re very excited about it,” Beres stated while urging everyone in town to help out.
“Please remember every day you can vote once and encourage friends to do so too because more votes mean better chances at getting that grant-and if we win-everyone wins.”
To learn more and vote visit nextgreatsave. ca.
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