
How an over 140-year-old Ontario mill went from abandoned into a hive of life
Keena Alwahaidi
created: July 26, 2025, 4:01 a.m. | updated: July 26, 2025, 11:15 p.m.
It's a hidden gem of rural Ontario, offering a glimpse into the region's past and a sign of new beginnings.
Located around an hour's drive from Toronto, the Alton Mill Arts Centre offers a fun weekend escape that seamlessly blends history and art.
The mill closed amid economic strain brought on by the Great Depression before it was acquired by the Western Rubber Company.
During its time as a tenant at the mill, Western Rubber manufactured balloons for Disney, as well as rubber gloves and condoms for Canadian soldiers during World War II.
The Western Rubber Company was in operation until 1982 and was the longest-running water-powered mill on the upper Credit River system.
19 hours, 18 minutes ago: blogTO