Bear River Windmill Winds Down

Bear River Board of Trade held a public meeting last week to discuss the future of the community’s iconic windmill.

An examination of the structure that has been used as a visitor information building found deterioration that poses health and safety risks.

More than 35 people attended the May 17 meeting during which a slideshow presentation of the windmill displayed deteriorating floors, mold on drywall, windows without headers and no support underneath, a rotting ceiling beam and more.

Community members at the meeting recognized the building was beyond repair and the board engaged an independent inspector to confirm it.

The board of trade issued a statement May 21 saying structural engineer Francis Doucet inspected the building and concluded it should be demolished immediately and the municipality has told the board of trade a permit will be issued.

A public meeting is planned within the next 10 days where Doucet and officials will provide more details.

The windmill was built in the mid-1970s by Rick and Anton Geerling and was used as tearoom and gift shop called De Zaaier (the sower), which they kept up until 1982. Afterwards, Gene Samson with a team of four or five other employees moved the windmill to its current riverfront location, said Bear River resident Don Rice.

He also said there is a time capsule buried near or in the foundation of the windmill.

As the plan moves forward to deal with these developments, the Bear River Board of Trade is seeking input and suggestions on what to do with the waterfront.

The Digby Courier, May 27, 2010