The Alton Mill recently held a Doors Open Event to showcase their renovations to the 19 th century mill that co-owners Jeremy & Jordan Grant have undertaken over the past several years. The Grant brothers inherited the aging structure from their father, Jack. Using development experiences brought from previous restoration projects, they settled on converting the mill into an arts and event centre with a future restaurant on the horizon.

The CHBTC was invited to join in on the day's events. Club member, Albert McMaster lead an enjoyable hike through the Alton Grange, the Alton Mill and the Millcroft Inn. Our lunch stop at the Alton Mill included a delicious hiker's lunch box prepared by Peter van Ryn who manages the Shaw's Creek Café inside the mill. The café is open Wed – Sunday 10-5pm. Our group was treated to a personal tour of the mill's historical features, architectural changes and art studios by Jordan . We gained an understanding of the turbine heritage display thanks to he and Albert's recollection of historical machinery.

As well as restoring the building, extensive landscaping to the property was involved and that is how I became acquainted with Jeremy & Jordan. Their plans included relocation and upgrades to our Alton Side Trail. Trail captain, Alan Billing, and I regularly stopped by to see the site's transformation.

At the end of the tour, we presented the Grant brothers with our Landowner Appreciation Certificate. They have been enthusiastic and welcoming landowners for many years and for that we are very thankful.