Our History
A Link to the Past
The Robert Shepherd Grist Mill site constitutes one of the oldest areas in Brockville. While other 19th century buildings remain in the area, Shepherds is the last building left in use of the nine that once utilized the waterpower of Buell’s Creek. It is now known as the The Grist Mill.
In 1784 the first settlers began to occupy this area. Two of the first were William Buell and Daniel Jones. Daniel Jones acquired the property at the mouth of Buell’s Creek. Sometime before 1800 he and Buell formed a partnership to dam the stream and build a sawmill. The sawmill was situated a short distance away, across the existing creek bed. In 1836 Robert Shepherd and his partner acquired the sawmill and the surrounding property.
In 1852 he decided to add a Grist Mill. He might have been the builder, as he was a stonemason by trade. His brothers and father were well known masons and builders. By 1883 the Grist Mill building was left vacant, the saw mill torn down and the millpond drained.
In 1893 the Samuels Rogers Oil Company purchased the property for a coal depot. In 1911 the Imperial Oil Company acquired the property. They maintained a storage depot here until 1978 when the City of Brockville purchased the property.
In 1980 the Robert Shepherd Grist Mill was designated under the Ontario Heritage Act, as a heritage building by the City of Brockville for both historical and architectural reasons. In 1982 it was gutted to the four outside walls and rebuilt as it is today using a much of the existing materials as possible. The majority of the beams downstairs and in the main floor dining room are original, and British Columbian Fir was brought in for the upstairs room known as Rafters.
Join Us
At The Mill, we offer a warm and inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy a truly memorable dining experience. Our carefully crafted menu, paired with an exceptional wine list, perfectly complements each dish.
We also provide private function and catering services, making us the ideal venue for intimate gatherings, corporate events, and special celebrations.