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McLean Mill National Historic Site facts for kids

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McLean Mill National Historic Site
McLean Mill-Interior.jpg
An interior shot of the McLean Mill
Type steam-operated sawmill
Location Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada
Built 1926
Governing body City of Port Alberni
Website Alberni Valley Heritage Network

The McLean Mill National Historic Site is a special place on Vancouver Island, Canada. It's an old sawmill that used to run on steam power. A sawmill is a factory where logs are cut into lumber, which is wood used for building.

This historic site officially opened to visitors on July 1, 2000. It was recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada in 1989. This means it's an important place in Canadian history.

The Mill's History

Starting a Family Business

The McLean Mill started as a family business. It was owned and operated by the McLean family from 1926 until 1965.

The land for the mill was bought by Robert Bartlett McLean, also known as R.B. McLean. He moved there with his wife, Cora, and their three sons: Arnold, Philip, and Walter.

Passing Down the Mill

Later, R.B. McLean's son, Arnold, took over the business. After Arnold, his son Howard McLean became the owner. Howard ran the sawmill until it closed in 1965.

Why the Mill Closed

One of the main reasons the McLean Mill closed was tough competition. Larger lumber companies in the area had bigger operations. It became difficult for the family-run mill to compete with them.

See also

  • Alberni Valley Heritage Network

External links

  • Alberni Valley Heritage Network
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