The Mills at Galetta
In the 1870s Galetta village included a store, a grist mill, a woollen mill, a carding and spinning mill, a shingle mill, and a cooperage. There was also a potash works on the island in the Mississippi River.
Wherever there was sufficient waterpower to operate them, mills were constructed to produce sawn lumber in conjunction with the square timber trade. Alex McMillan and Donald Dingwall established the first sawmill in the township near the mouth of the Mississippi Snye in 1825. That mill was subsequently acquired by Mr. Learmonth, who operated it as well as a grist mill on the site.
…from “Beyond our Memories”
by the Fitzroy Township Historical Society
In Galetta, a water-powered mill was built by James Steen on the Mississippi. Steen sold it to J.G. Whyte and constructed another mill further downstream. Whyte operated both a sawmill, a gristmill and a carding mill. Steen operated a sawmill and a gristmill.
Little remains to remind us of those numerous mills save for artifacts like the pair of millstones beside the Galetta Community Centre.Stay informed about our upcoming events and activities. From social gatherings to educational workshops, there's always something happening in our community.
…from “Beyond our Memories”
by the Fitzroy Township Historical Society