The future of the R.T. McKenzie and James Naismith collections at the Mill of Kintail Museum appears more secure after a new agreement between the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) and the Municipality of Mississippi Mills.
MVCA manager of programs and properties Scott Lawryk said the agreement is a major step toward ensuring the collections remain at their historic home, where they have been cared for for more than 50 years.
Lawryk confirmed the possibility of relocating the collections outside the community had been considered as MVCA explored options to ensure their long-term preservation.
Lawryk said strong community support for keeping the collections in Mississippi Mills helped shape discussions, along with the municipality’s commitment to preserving the legacy of McKenzie and Naismith.
Lawryk said MVCA plans to remain involved with the site and continue working with the municipality as part of future planning for the Mill of Kintail.
James Naismith, the inventor of basketball, and renowned sculptor and rehabilitation pioneer R.T. McKenzie both have deep ties to the historic property, making the collections significant locally and nationally.
The municipality is expected to take ownership of the collections in 2028, although details surrounding the transfer and lease arrangements still need to be finalized.
Story by Grant Deme
