Our Beloved Backus Mill - Neglected but not forgotten

For many generations the Backus (Grist) Mill has been a monumental landmark in Norfolk County.  Built in 1798 it stands tall and proud as a representation of everything that has made not only Norfolk County but Canada what it is today.  It reminds us of the sense of community, the dedication, and the triumphs of our early settlers to the area and gives us all a tremendous amount of pride. 

Mr Ross Bateman's letter to CBC to allow everyone access to Backus Woods

Backus Woods is a forest of hundreds of acres north of Lake Erie in Norfolk County, Ontario.  It’s part of the Backhouse Mill and homestead, established in 1797 by John C. Backhouse.  In a past generation, many of the family members changed their name from Backhouse to Backus. (Who knows why?) Backus Woods is the best remnant of an extreme southern Canadian forest; the jewels of these woods are the groves of Tulip Trees that tower over the forest canopy.