Who We AreWatson’s Mill Manotick Inc. (WMMI) is a private, not-for-profit organization that oversees the preservation and management of three heritage buildings in the heart of Manotick – Watson’s Mill, Dickinson House, and the historic Carriage Shed. Our site shares a remarkable past rooted in industrial ingenuity and the foundation of the community in Manotick. Watson’s Mill is an 1860s water-powered grist and flour mill built along the Rideau River. Commercial operations at the Mill ceased in 1963, and the building was first opened as a museum in 1974. Today, the mill stone and original equipment continue to grind flour, providing a unique and immersive experience for visitors of all ages. Dickinson House, built in 1867 and located directly across the street from the Mill, originally served as office space for the mill, a general store, and a post office. By 1870, it had become a private home to Moss Kent Dickinson, one of the Mill’s original founders. Dickinson House is now open to the public as a heritage house museum, taking visitors back to the time when the Dickinson family was living there. The historic Carriage Shed building, which would have been used to house horses and wagons during the early operations at Watson’s Mill, now houses a thriving Used Book Store, and WMMI’s administrative offices.WMMI is governed by a robust and interdisciplinary Board of Directors and is staffed year-round by three full-time employees. We also rely on a dedicated and enthusiastic group of volunteers who are integral in successful operations and delivery of programming across the site. Each year, we welcome over 30,000 visitors to our site, and to the village of Manotick.MissionTo provide a thriving and inclusive museum space where people come together through innovative and meaningful educational experiences, events, and programming centered on the history of Dickinson Square.VisionDickinson Square is a heritage destination and vibrant community hub, celebrating and preserving Manotick’s roots in agriculture and industry. Values As an organization, we value:Authenticity – upholding authenticity and best practices in preserving and conserving the collection, heritage buildings, and the stories we tell.Visitor Experience – offering high quality, consistent visitor experiences that are engaging and resonate with different audiences.Open and Inclusive Environments – a genuine respect for visitors to our site, our place in the community, our volunteers, partners, and staff members. We strive to foster an open and inclusive environment where all feel welcome.Community Partnerships – strong relationships with our community, and a commitment to continuously seek out new opportunities for collaboration.