Watson's Mill (Museum-Historic Site)

Manotick's Watson's Mill / Long Island Mill and Museum is a historic site that supports the heritage of both the Rideau canal and rural farmers in the community dating back in the 1860's. It also serves today as a memorial of local troops who fought bravely for Canada's armed forces. There are many interesting features surrounding this area. The once very active multi-purpose mill, how it supported life in the community, how mills function and how the mill structure influences the local environment. The mill harnests the kinetic energy from the water to turn turbines providing mechanical energy to drive various gears and pulleys to perform work. This included; a grist mill (a stone grinding mechanism that was used to grind grain and corn into various grades of flour) and a power supply for other machines such as; a hoist to lift sacs of grain and a power supply to cut logs into useable lumber. These services were often traded in exchange for a portion of what was made, thus creating a centre of commerce within the community. I also noticed how the dam used by the mill impacts the local environment. This includes; the formation of oddly shaped ice paddies from the foam of the Rideau river during the winter time. Also how the water sounds, moves and where water collects creating a bay down stream where wildlife likes to congregate. There are also other hidden clues available to be seen, such as; ice pushing staffs, the tunnel into the mill where water is diverted for the turbines. Just take your time and let your imagination figure out how this mill worked in the past and immerse youself into history. Don't get too close to the mechanical workings of the Mill. You don't want to join Ann in the haunting of the Mill. That too is a story you can learn about while visiting the site. If you like my review's, photos or videos don't mill around and give it a thumbs up.

I didn't go in or visit the museum but the whole are is nice. Walking paths around the river have plenty of sitting chairs. The view are beautiful. Then walked around checking the old houses which mostly were converted into restaurants some with outdoor patio. Very nice for relaxing afternoon

A great visit, especially on a day that the mill is operating! Highly recommend a trip to the mill and used book sale.

Great place for anyone looking to stay near Ottawa but still experience some historical sites. Cute restaurants nearby and a very pretty scenic walk by the river.

Very nice place to visit. Its a big four story mill. And it is free, with ample free parking available. It has still it's old machinery working and grinding seeds to make flour. To see the entire operation is fascinating, from old but powerful water run turbines in the basement to all the gears and belts moving the grinding stone and grinding seeds. You can buy bread made of this flour. Opposite to this place is Dickinson House Museum which is also well preserved.

Great place to visit in order to see wheat ground by traditional methods into flour. Boutique with wonderful bread and other tasty items seasonally. Great village like atmosphere and scenic location.

Beautiful full of history and beautiful view . The staff are amazing very friendly very helpful and they answer all your questions. The town is not very far from Ottawa like 40 min nice walk around and few restaurants. Would be nice couple of hours to spend there but I wouldn’t plan a full day . The entrance is free and they have have a shop.

Went out to Manitick today and visited Watson's Mill. There were displays with the history of the mill. The grounds and parks nearby were nicely kept. I can see how people would enjoy the mill and area around. The people in the mill didn't say much. However, when I asked a question, they were quite nice.