Babcock Mill in Odessa is a historic 1856 planing mill and basket factory situated along Millhaven Creek. Visitors can explore the site of the famous “Babcock Baskets” and see patented machinery from the early 1900s. The surrounding park offers a scenic mini cascade and rapids, making it a top choice for history & heritage enthusiasts.
Three mills once stood at this spot on Millhaven Creek in Odessa. Babcock Mill is the only one left. John Babcock bought it in 1907, built his own basket-making machinery, patented it, and the family kept producing baskets on-site until Don Babcock shut down the equipment in 1993. Loyalist Township restored the building and opened it as a museum in 1985, with the original machinery still inside. Out back, Millhaven Creek drops over a small rock cascade that once powered the whole operation.
This property is owned/operated by Loyalist Township.
What to Expect
You can walk through the mill interior and see the machinery where it sits, then head outside to the grounds along the creek. The cascade is small, maybe half a metre wide, with rock rapids, but it makes for a good place to sit with a lunch and watch the water. The bridge over Millhaven Creek gives you the best angle on the rapids and the mill together.
Here’s What’s Different
- The only place in Ontario where you can see John Babcock’s original, patented basket-making machinery.
- The mini cascade on Millhaven Creek provided power to the village of Odessa.
- Baskets were produced on-site using the original methods until 1993.
Good to KnowÂ
- The original Woollen Mill from this site was significant enough to be relocated to Upper Canada Village. While visiting, walk across the bridge for the best views of the Millhaven Creek rapids.
- LOCAL TIP
- Pack a lunch and use the picnic tables near the cascade. It is one of the quietest spots in the village.
- FAST FACTS
- The Babcock Mill was originally built in 1856.
- Don Babcock continued the family tradition of basket making at the mill until 1993.
Your Route
What We Offer
Common Questions
Tours are generally available Thursday through Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm during the summer season.
Yes, the mill interior houses the original patented machinery used to make the Babcock Baskets.
Yes, the grounds and the cascade are open and popular for picnicking and photography.
Loyalist Township hosts heritage programming at the site. Check the local event calendar for updates.
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Getting Here
100 Bridge Street in Odessa
Easily accessible from Highway 401 and the main village corridor.