Grant's Old Mill

We are located at 2777 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg on the banks of Sturgeon Creek in St. James.

We share the life of Cuthbert Grant (1793-1854) and his involvement in the fur trade and as a leader in fur trade wars at our museum inside the mill. Grant is considered to be the first leader of the Métis Nation here in Manitoba. In 1829 he built the first water-powered mill west of the Great Lakes, located on the banks of Sturgeon Creek in Winnipeg. This mill was constructed in 1975 as replica of the original one Grant built. Our replica uses mill stones to demonstrate how wheat was ground into flour in the mid 1800’s.

We are closed and in the planning stages of the mill's reconstruction process. Check back later for more details.

Follow our Instagram and Facebook pages for more information!

Send us an email at grantsoldmill@gmail.com

Boards of Belief Campaign

Preserve the Past. Build the Future.

Grant’s Old Mill is more than just a structure—it’s a living symbol of the intertwined legacies of the Red River Métis Nation and Scottish settlers in Manitoba. Through the Boards of Belief Campaign, we invite you to join us in preserving this powerful story by sponsoring a symbolic “board” as part of the Mill’s restoration and renewal.

Each tier in the campaign is inspired by a meaningful aspect of Métis or Scottish tradition, offering donors visible, lasting recognition and the opportunity to be part of our shared heritage.

Contribution Tiers:

Seed Sower – $25–$199

Inspired by those who plant the first seeds of support.

Recognition: Digital thank-you on our website and social media.

Highland Harvester – $200–$499

Inspired by the hardworking crofters and Métis families who turned grain into sustenance.

Recognition: All of the above, plus name listed on a collective donor board and a personalized thank-you postcard featuring Grant’s Old Mill art.

Sturgeon Guardian – $500–$999

Inspired by the sturgeon—resilient, sacred, and symbolic of Métis stewardship.

Recognition: All of the above, plus name on a shared “Guardian Wall”, a timber piece from the 1975 Mill structure, and a special invitation to a behind-the-scenes tour.

Wheatstone Pillar – $1,000–$2,499

Inspired by the millstones that powered self-sufficiency in prairie life.

Recognition: All of the above, plus your own “Board of Belief” placed permanently inside the Mill, a commemorative photo, and recognition during Cuthbert Grant Day.

Cuthbert’s Circle – $2,500+

Inspired by Cuthbert Grant, founder of Grantown and a visionary Métis leader.

Recognition: All of the above, plus a Founding Donor title, framed Métis sash and Scottish tartan artwork, and a role in future development consultations.

Why Boards?

Just as the original Mill was built board by board, your contributions help us rebuild a foundation of pride, culture, and community for future generations. Together, we will raise the walls, ring the bell, and restore this symbol of Métis and Scottish legacy.

How to Contribute

Donations can be made online here

Or by cheque (Payable to: St. James Assiniboia Pioneer Association)

The St. James Assiniboia Pioneer Association Inc.

PO Box 26008, RPO Maryland, Winnipeg, MB R3G 3R3

All donors will receive a charitable receipt.

Contact Us

grantsoldmill@gmail.com

2777 Portage Ave, Winnipeg, MB R3J 3S5

The St. James-Assiniboia Pioneer Association Inc.