The Town of Blind River has unveiled two new protective shelters built with a $29,500 Ontario Trillium Foundation capital grant
NEWS RELEASE
TOWN OF BLIND RIVER
*************************
BLIND RIVER – The Town of Blind River showed off the results of the $29,500 Capital grant it received last year from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). Funds were used to construct two artifact protection shelters that will ensure that irreplaceable machinery artifacts from one of North America’s largest white pine mills, once operated in Blind River, will be protected for future generations to learn about.
“Congratulations to the Town of Blind River on receiving a $29,500 Capital grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation for the construction of machinery artifact shelters,” said Bill Rosenberg, MPP for Algoma-Manitoulin. “This valuable investment will help preserve over 100 years of local history, ensuring that these important artifacts can be protected and shared with future generations. Residents and visitors alike will have the opportunity to learn about Blind River’s rich heritage and continue the story of the community for years to come.”
The Town of Blind River’s Curator, Ashley Young, in collaboration with Canadian Museum Standards, has thoughtfully planned structures that facilitate artifact protection, local school outdoor field trips, tourism asset improvement, and local restoration volunteerism. These artifacts can be found on your next visit to the Timber Village Museum as they are near the grounds at the Blind River Marine Park.
“The Town of Blind River is so pleased to have been selected as an Ontario Trillium Foundation grantee,” said Sally Hagman, Mayor of the Town of Blind River. “Our team has been working for over 10 years on plans to protect these artifacts, and with your support, we are bringing this goal to fruition. This project will be a beautiful stop for tourists, engage all school children to learn about our local history, as well, protect irreplaceable machinery.”
The Town of Blind River thanks Dr Paul Campbell for donating over 100 hours to restore the “crazy wheel”, and praises Kevin Middaugh, Bruce Brisbois, and LA Trucking for their expertise, equipment, and time.
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. In 2025-26, OTF invested nearly $107M into 746 community projects. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.
*************************
Leave a comment