How about a mill that stood against an empire? That’s the story of the Fleming Mill. This majestic stone structure overlooks Boulevard LaSalle. It stands as the only Anglo-Saxon-inspired mill still in Quebec.
The Fleming Mill is more than just a building. It is a symbol of defiance. It is a testament to Scottish immigration. It is also an integral part of Montreal’s history.
In 1814, William Fleming bought land in Bas-Lachine. He built a wooden windmill. This act sparked conflict with the Sémimaire de Saint-Sulpice de Montréal. The Seminary had a monopoly on flour-producing mills since 1663. They ordered Fleming’s mill to be demolished.
Fleming fought back. His lawyers argued that the Seminary had no legal power in Canada. The legislative council questioned the Seminary’s claims. The Seminary defended its rights.
In 1822, the King’s Bench ruled for the Seminary. They ordered non-regulation mills to be demolished. Fleming appealed. Three years later, the judges were deadlocked. This stalemate was a victory for Fleming. He rebuilt the mill in stone in 1827.
The Fleming Mill became a symbol of resistance. It stood against the feudal rule of the Catholic Church. Others expressed their discontent. Fleming was the only one to take his claim to court.
The Fleming Mill faced an uncertain future from its start. The Fleming family operated the mill until the 1880s. Industrial mills rose in popularity. The Fleming Mill remained active for occasional use.
After operations ceased, the mill deteriorated. It lost blades and its rotating mechanism collapsed. The roof fell inside. In 1928, The Wellcome Foundation acquired the mill. They restored it around 1930. This saved it from total destruction.
In 1947, the City of LaSalle acquired the site. The city expanded rapidly. Municipal authorities focused on development. Many old houses were demolished.
In 1976, the Cavelier-de-LaSalle Historical Society pushed for heritage recognition. In 1982, LaSalle adopted the mill as its emblem. In 1983, it became an official archaeological heritage site.
Reconstruction began with the goal to protect the building. In 1989, the city decided to promote it as a public attraction. Restoration work preserved the external appearance. The inside was renovated for modern use.
The Fleming Mill became an interpretation center. It showcased the history of LaSalle. Its proximity to paths and the river made it a tourist attraction.
The Fleming Mill was inaugurated on July 7, 1991. In 1991, a book about the mill was commissioned. It told the story of William Fleming and his court case.
Today, the Fleming Mill is a landmark. It stands for residents of LaSalle and Montreal. It reminds us of the battle for a free market. The Fleming Mill is a testament to enduring tenacity. It is a one-of-a-kind mill in Quebec.