“A glimpse into the spirit of the 19th century”
Quietly nestled in the hills and valleys, this park is one of Niagara’s best kept secrets. Surrounded by Lake Gibson and adjacent to the DeCew Falls, the historic Morningstar Mill is a picturesque park area, ideal for a weekend picnic and an interesting history lesson.

Morningstar Mill is a glimpse into the innovative and pioneering spirit of 19th century St. Catharines. First constructed in 1872 by Robert Chappel, the mill was one of the first in Canada to be powered by a turbine rather than a waterwheel.

Visitors to the Mountain Mills Museum can see the mill working as it did a century ago. Nearly all the equipment is authentic and has been lovingly restored by a dedicated band of volunteers known as the Friends of Morningstar Mill. The “Friends” formed in 1992 with the goal of restoring the mill to its former glory, and they opened a door into the region’s milling past for tourists and history enthusiasts. Currently, the “Friends” are replicating the timber frame sawmill which was part of the original site. On a visit to the site you can see their progress.

The Mill is open May 18 until Thanks-giving weekend, Saturday, Sunday and holiday Mondays, between 12 noon and 5:00 p.m. After visiting the mill, you can access the trail behind the Miller’s house and you are on the Bruce Trail, which follows the ravine across the top of the escarpment. In 1993, the John Howard Society approached the City offering its services towards the restoration of the Miller’s 100-year-old house. Please call 905-688-5601 ext. 1927 or email ePlay@stcatharines.ca for current rates and permit information.