1912 Booth Board Mill
John Rudolphus Booth was a bold man with a vision, whose strong work ethic and sensible head helped him achieve much success. From humble beginnings, by 1882 his mill grew to be the largest lumber producer in the world. They supplied the lumber in the construction of Canada's new Parliament Buildings and also for the decks of Cunard ocean liners. Booth made his fortune not only through the timber trade, but also thanks to grain elevator and steamship operations on the Great Lakes, a cement plant, as well as a pulp and paper mill. Most importantly, however, he established the Canadian Atlantic Railway; essentially giving birth to Free Trade by sending the lumber and grain to the United States, further onto Europe.
Four previous mills fell in flames and this one was constructed in 1912, when Booth was in his eighties. Although now considered derelict, this abandoned mill in the Chaudière district still holds a sense of proudness and functionality. (Plus I like the contrast with the fresh green grass!) Hopefully the NCC will feel the same way, and choose to restore rather than demolish, if plans go ahead to convert the area into a prime tourist destination.
1 comment:
Yes, I think it looks great too, especially against the grass. I hope it does get restored. There's so much they can do with all that space inside!
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