It Was a Dark and Stormy Night in Tyrone!
All the lights of the Village of Tryone were out. The storm, nearly the strength of a hurricane, had blown down trees, and had caused massive blackouts throughout the area. It would be days before the hydro workers could repair the damage caused by the storm. Everyone was in the dark, everyone but Bob! Yes, Bob owned the Tyrone Mills, and its power was supplied by the pond’s water rushing through the turbine he had installed years before. The historic legend of the Tyrone Mills lived on!
This was not a story that happened, but one that could, thanks to the foresight of the Mills owner, Robert (Bob) Shafer!
Still Water Powered After All These Years!
It’s a little-known fact that Tyrone Mills runs on waterpower from its mill pond, channeling energy through an 1880s turbine and a network of belts and pulleys. Even if the lights go out, this historic setup keeps the machinery going strong!
The Story of Tyrone Mills: Since 1846
As new settlements came to the region, settlers began clearing the land to farm.
The Tyrone Mills was built in 1846 as a flour mill, helping settlers grind wheat and sell their crops, a vital boost to the local economy. By the 1850s, it was exporting flour to Britain and the U.S.!
As agriculture and technology evolved, so did the mill. In the 1870s ~ 80’s it swapped mill stones for steel rollers, making whiter flour. By the late 1800s, local farmers were shifting to barley, shipping it to American breweries.
Tyrone Mills has been a part of ongoing change, adapting and thriving with the times!
1880’s Tyrone Mill’s Flavorful Evolution!
In the 1880s, Tyrone Mills became a feed mill for local livestock. Fast forward to the 1950s, when Robert’s predecessor added a sawmill, planner, and woodworking shop to keep things going.
When Bob bought the Mills in 1979, there was only a $50 profit from the feed mill, he knew changes were needed. Spotting the area’s apple boom, he installed a cider press, and soon after, the famous apple fritter donut machine was purchased! Known for these fresh, tasty donuts, Tyrone Mills became a must-visit stop.
Check out Ontario Visited’s ‘Drive Home from Tyrone Mills Video for proof of this tasty tradition (from our personal experiences, you be the judge)!
Tyrone Mills: A Destination for History and Flavor!
In 1996, Tyrone Mills reinstalled its original millstones to grind flour, then added a wood-fired clay oven, hand-built from local clay from around the pond. This soon evolved into a popular pizza spot! While lumber remains part of the mill’s charm, The Tyrone Mills is now a true destination, offering a unique step back in time. The mill’s general store is filled with Canadian goods (as local as possible), and yes, the famous donuts are still made fresh on site!
Discover Antique Treasures at Tyrone Mills!
Step upstairs at Tyrone Mills to explore a fascinating collection of antiques gathered over 45 years! From vintage hand tools to woodworking machines, these items tell the story of the Mill’s history in flour, apples, and woodworking. Many pieces are local donations, and if you have an authentic item to share, the “Mills” would love to” chat”!
Tyrone Mills: A Timeless Destination for All!
Generations of visitors, from families with young kids to seniors who remember “the good old days”, travel to Tyrone Mills year-round, seven days a week (except Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year’s).
Don’t miss their latest attraction, wood-fired pizzas on weekends! And don’t forget, fresh donuts made onsite daily.
Even in winter, when there’s snow to shovel, the Tyrone Mills is open and ready for visitors!
A magical historic and wonderful place to visit year-round!
EXTRA, EXTRA …Hear all about it: THE POND & “Thanksgiving at Tyrone Mills: A 37-Year+ Tradition!”
While standing on the lush grounds, with the crisp fresh air and fall fading into the cooler nights, Bob tells us that they share their Thanksgiving feast here. An annual tradition with family, staff, and friends of the mill.
Of course, the meal is cooked on their historic woodstove, rescued from the village and fired up for a true taste of the past!
For over 37 years they have been celebrating the legacy of generations who have made the Tyrone Mills what it is today.
NOTE: Interview with Robert (Bob) Shafer, Owner of Tyrone Mills Ltd.
Much of the script for this article comes from our Ontario Visited “interview” videos with Mr. Shafer. We were fortunate enough to spend an hour plus with Bob. His genuine enthusiasm for the Tyrone Mills was captivating, so much so that we took for too many videos for this article. If you’d like to know much about this amazing heritage mill, visit their website at www.tyronemill.net or, better still, visit the Mills in person. You will be glad you did!
Either way, we hope that you enjoyed our story, and “Bob’s”.
