The Old Mill - 1835 South Perth

The Old Mill, also known as Shenton's Mill, is one of Perth's most distinctive historic landmarks. Built in 1835 to grind flour, the mill played an important role in the survival of the Swan River colony. Perth's first flour mill contains many historic pieces and relics of the early pioneer days. The mill is a stone structure, which has been plastered and limewashed. The simple clear lines of the mill make it a picturesque early colonial building. The thick stone walls give it the character of a fortress. Built by William Shenton it is located in South Perth, on the Swan River, the main transport channel for the settlers. Milling ceased in 1859 and the buildings were used for a variety of purposes including an early picnic site, a residence, a wine saloon and a poultry farm. To protect the site the government declared it a recreation reserve in 1932. In 1957 it was leased to a private company for restoration and as a repository for historic items. The Old Mill passed the National Trust in 1992. Take a tour to fully appreciate the significance of this old building, and learn more about the lives of the early settlers.