Mill Bay Community League

09/07/2026

Today, we recognize the generations of workers whose skill, effort and determination helped build our communities.

From industry and agriculture to transportation, local businesses and public service, their contributions are woven into the history of South Cowichan.

Happy Labour Day from the Mill Bay–Malahat Historical Society and Heritage Museum.

09/01/2026

Do you remember the little Shawnigan Lake Library?

The formal opening of the 500-square-foot library took place on May 10, 1932.

In 1976, the building was turned over to the Vancouver Island Regional Library and the local library association was dissolved. The trustees believed this would ensure that the property would always be used as a library.

By 1985, the busy little branch had an annual circulation of more than 34,000. However, as the population of South Cowichan grew, VIRL determined that a larger regional library was needed.

The South Cowichan Branch opened in Mill Bay in September 1989, making the Shawnigan Lake branch redundant. Mill Bay residents welcomed the new library, but many Shawnigan Lake residents were understandably disappointed to lose such an important part of their community.

What do you remember about the old Shawnigan Lake Library?

History courtesy of the Shawnigan Historical Society.

08/28/2026

Do you live on Deloume Road in Mill Bay?

The road takes its name from the Deloume family, who built it by hand so they could transport produce from their Good Hope Farm to the mouth of the bay.

The former farm property is now part of the Mill Springs subdivision, but the family name—and the road they created—remain part of the community today.

Visit the Heritage Museum to learn more about the Deloume family and the stories behind familiar local places.

Do you live in this neighbourhood, or remember the area before Mill Springs was developed?

08/24/2026

08/08/2026

08/02/2026

07/30/2026

A link to Al Capone? 🕵️‍♂️🔓

Did you know that the Mill Bay Marina site was once a hotspot for rum-runners smuggling liquor down to the United States?

Back in the 1930s, the property featured a house owned by George Scollard. The home famously featured armed security guards and a massive, hidden basement vault—giving rise to persistent local rumours linking our quiet bay directly to Al Capone's operations.

You can see the actual 500-pound steel door from that hidden vault up close today, right inside our lobby!

Come visit the Heritage Museum this Sunday from 11 AM to 3 PM to take a personal guided tour and uncover the wilder side of our local past.
Admission is entirely by donation!