The Upper Ottawa Valley Heritage Centre is excited to welcome back filmmaker David Bouthillier as the second guest speaker in the 2025 Speaker Series. Join the Heritage Centre in Pembroke on Thursday, June 19 at 7:00 p.m. for a special screening of his latest documentary short film, Balaclava: The Last Water Powered Sawmill.
The film tells the story of Canada’s last commercially operating water-powered sawmill, built in 1855 and located in Balaclava, Ontario. Powered by Constant Creek until its closure in 1967, the mill’s crumbling remains raise the question: why wasn’t it preserved?
Through powerful imagery, historical research, and interviews, Bouthillier explores the fragility of built heritage and the importance of saving our community landmarks before they disappear.
This engaging evening will include the film screening, a discussion with the filmmaker, and a chance to learn more about local history. Admission is by donation, and refreshments will be provided.
The Upper Ottawa Valley Heritage Centre, operated by the Ottawa Valley Historical Society, houses over 10,000 artifacts and serves as Pembroke’s hub for local history and culture.
For more information, contact the Centre at 613-735-0517 or email curator@uovheritagecentre.ca.
(Written by: Emma Butler)