| Introduction. In 1855 the Nelson Township council created a 4.6 kilometer long road between Dakota, Cumminsville and Kilbride. The Hamilton Powder Company was located just inside the gates, of what is now, the Cedar Spring Community. A huge explosion on 8 October, 1884 leveled most of the buildings forcing many local men to find work elsewhere. This event signaled the end for the Dakota and Cumminsville communities. |
A water-powered grist and saw mill, the Dakota Mill, still operated on Cedar Sprinds Road until the mid-1970’s. The Mill was destroyed by fire on 17 November 1979.
The property is owned by the Cedar Springs Community. Driving down Cedar Springs Road no one would suspect that there is anything left of the old grist and saw mill. |
Photo: Burlington Historical Society.
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However, after a short stroll into the heavy undergrowth some parts of the water wheel* and driveshaft used to operate the mill become visible. They are the only reminders left to indicate the location of the old Dakota Mill.
* The water wheel has a diameter of 5.8 m. (19 ft.), a width of 1.7 m. (6'-8") and scoops every three inches.
Location. Cedar Springs Road area, north of Britannia Road. One of the first schools in this area was built at the corner of Britannia Road (formerly named No.5 Side Road).
Mill Location: Cedar Springs Road, east side, just north of the Twelve Mile Creek. |
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| Photographs are copyrighted. Do not reproduce without written permission. © All-Inspec Ltd. |
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On bridge over 12 Mile Creek.
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| Mill race for the Dakota Grist and Saw Mill from 12 Mile Creek to the water wheel. |
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| W. of Cedar Springs Rd. |
E. of Cedar Springs Rd. |
Last 20 m. ran below the mill buildings through this
steel race. Diameter: 1.52 m.
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| Pictures of what is left of the water wheel. |
Facing east. Water wheel is behind this wall
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Facing west. Part of the water wheel |
Close-up view of the large water wheel.
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Facing west. Drive shaft and cogg wheel..
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The water wheel is exposed to the elements. The main wheel structure is in good condition but large sections of the 'scoops' have rusted away. The lower section of the wheel is burried in mud.
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