The historic St. Mary's Paper Mill Tower in Baawating, a First Nation territory near Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, is set to undergo a major transformation. The iconic structure will be redeveloped into a hotel, conference centre, and cultural hub, according to plans announced by Garden River First Nation.
Preserving History, Building Future
The project aims to preserve the architectural heritage of the paper mill tower while creating a vibrant community space. The redevelopment will include a hotel with modern amenities, a conference centre for events and gatherings, and a cultural hub showcasing Indigenous art and history.
Community Impact
The initiative is expected to boost tourism and economic development in the region. Garden River First Nation leaders emphasized the importance of repurposing the landmark to reflect the community's culture and provide new opportunities. The tower, a prominent feature of the local skyline, has been vacant for years.
Construction is slated to begin in the coming months, with completion expected within two years. The project has received support from municipal and provincial officials, who see it as a model for sustainable redevelopment of industrial sites.
