Nestled in the heart of Manotick Village, Dickinson Square shares a remarkable past rooted in Canadian history and industrial ingenuity. Run by Watson’s Mill Manotick Inc. (WMMI), Dickinson Square is comprised of 2 sites; Watson’s Mill and Dickinson House.
Built in 1860 along the shores of the Rideau River, Watson’s Mill remains active as a water powered flour mill; Dickinson House, built in 1867, displays the heritage home of the past mill owners.
Dickinson Square is the only industrial heritage site in Ottawa and explores the lives and work of the people who have called, and continue to call Manotick and Ottawa home.
From May to October visitors can view the site in its entirety which also includes the Manotick dam and original Carriage Shed, as well as the Manotick Cenotaph and Remembrance Park. The site comes to life through tours given by our team in period wear as well as on each Sunday through live milling demonstrations. There's more to explore, visit On This Spot: Manotick for more information, including history of the area, a mobile app, and walking tour guide.
In-person visiting hours
*Follow building health protocols.
- Saturday, June 3 202310am to 4pm
- Sunday, June 4 202310am to 4pm
Watson's Mill- Front exterior façade, photo credit: Courvette/Ottawa 
Watson's Mill- Rear exterior façade, photo credit: Maureen McPhee 
Watson's Mill- Interior main floor- millstone, photo credit: Brian Kunter
-
Watson's Mill- Front exterior façade, photo credit: Courvette/Ottawa -
Watson's Mill- Rear exterior façade, photo credit: Maureen McPhee -
Watson's Mill- Interior main floor- millstone, photo credit: Brian Kunter
Architecture
Amenities and features
- Public washrooms
- Free parking
- Bike parking
- Family friendly
- Guided tours
- OC transpo nearby