Winnipeg landmark closing due to safety concerns

A popular Winnipeg landmark needs to be torn down due to structural problems unless it raises a significant amount of money. Harrison Shin has more.

An iconic Manitoba landmark that recently celebrated its 50th birthday is facing an uncertain future.

On Sunday, Grant’s Old Mill announced in an Instagram post that the facility is closing.

“Not just closed for the season–but closed because the structure is no longer safe,” the post said.

The social media post goes on to say that the mill cannot be repaired but rather, needs to be carefully dismantled and rebuilt.

“It’s really unfortunate,” said Tyler Crichton, spokesperson for Sturgeon Creek Association. “I grew up around this mill, that mill was a friend to me.”

“It’s a fixture of the neighbourhood so you know, you’ll miss it and hopefully they’ll work to restore it,” Alyssa Cox, area resident, told CTV News Monday.

The organization that oversees the mill, the St. James Assiniboia Pioneer Association, said it needs to raise $600,000 to bring the structure back to life.

“And that is just the beginning. This funding is only for the Mill itself,” the post said.

“We have a much bigger vision—one shaped by what you, our community, have told us you want. A vision that will expand this space, strengthen connections, and create opportunities that will impact and support generations to come.”

The organization is set to unveil its full vision for the future of the mill on July 11. In the meantime, it will continue to host events on the grounds.

When asked for comment on the mill’s closure, a City of Winnipeg spokesperson told CTV News the city continues to work with the St. James Assiniboia Pioneer Association on next steps for the mill site.

They noted there is currently $1.3 million forecast for the 2029 budget for the restoration of the museum in the space.

Grant’s Old Mill opened in 1975, serving as a replica of a mill built in 1829 by Métis leader Cuthbert Grant Jr.

Manitoba Métis Federation Minister Will Goodon counts Grant Jr. among his ancestors and said the Federation will take part in the restoration.

“It is an important part of Winnipeg history, of Métis history, of Manitoba history – and I think that there’s a few folks that need to be at the table, and we just have to figure out the best ones,” Goodon said.

Evans said the association heard area residents “loud and clear.”

“No, the mill is not going anywhere, the mill is a part of our history. It’s an integral piece of the Red River Métis, the Scottish, as well as the community of St. James.”

CTV News reached out to area Coun. Shawn Dobson (St. James) for comment but did not hear back.