Bringing history back to life with restoration of Lower Doon Mill ruins in 2025
A piece of Kitchener’s history is set to be brought back to life, as plans to restore the crumbling Lower Doon Mill ruins were unveiled at a Heritage Kitchener Committee meeting on Jan. 7. An engineering report presented to the committee outlined the critical need to stabilize the crumbling Lower Doon Mill ruins, which meet criteria for historical and contextual significance.
“You can kind of see the irregular property just by Schnider Creek,” said Deeksha Choudhry, Kitchener’s Heritage Planner. “The ruins are currently in an advanced state of disrepair, with many sections of the stone falling off.” Built in the 1830s, the Lower Doon Mill was a cornerstone of Kitchener’s industrial beginnings. Powered by Schnider Creek, the mill processed grain for the surrounding farming community, contributing to the economic growth of what was then known as the Village of Doon. By the early 20th century, operations ceased, leaving the stone ruins as a testament to the city’s heritage.
The work needed to stabalizie the ruins is expected to cost around $250,000. The assessment revealed the masonry of the ruins is in poor condition, particularly in areas exceeding 1.2 metres in height, while the channel remains in good shape. Tacoma Engineers recommended immediate action, including reinforcing damaged sections, monitoring loose stones, and developing a vegetation control plan. These measures aim to preserve the structure’s integrity and prepare it for a broader restoration effort set to begin in 2025. Funding for the project will come from the city’s heritage preservation budget, with additional support from community partnerships under consideration. Plans include structural repairs, improved landscaping, and potentially educational elements to showcase the site’s rich history. The committee also discussed the possibility of engaging local schools in the effort to enhance the area.
“Perhaps we could get school kids involved to protect the area with heritage flowers or some sort of garden,” suggested council member Christine Michaud.
Regional Councillor Jean Haalboom expressed her support for the restoration effort. “I’m really glad to see that this is on the agenda to be repaired. It’s been sitting there for quite a while, so I look forward to the work to be done.” The Heritage Kitchener Committee is also exploring additional preservation initiatives, such as digitizing archival materials and increasing awareness of lesser-known historical sites in the city.
As of March 14, restoration work on the Lower Doon Mill ruins is still pending.
