Swansea Bark Mill

The Bark Mill, built in the 1880s by William Morey in the seaside town of Swansea, originally functioned as a portable plant for crushing black wattle bark. Its products, bark chips and dust, were shipped to tanneries worldwide, where tannic acid was extracted to tan hides for leather. During the Great Depression, the mill sustained the local economy when the wool market collapsed, with many residents earning sixpence for each bundle of bark they stripped. In 1918, the mill became a permanent fixture and operated until the 1960s, notable for the innovative modifications made by Morey’s son, Frank, who repurposed various materials to enhance its function. After falling into disrepair, the mill was restored in 1981 by Rex Morey, the grandson of William, and opened as a historical museum in April 1982.

In the early 2000s, the Bark Mill expanded to include a coffee shop and a local wool shop. Following a devastating fire in 2004 that destroyed the town’s only pub, the Bark Mill was renovated to become a vibrant gathering place once again, offering a tavern, restaurant, and bottle shop. This revitalization brought life back to Swansea, featuring live music events and hearty meals. In 2006, new owners further enhanced the venue with a bakery, playground, and renovations to the museum, ensuring the Bark Mill remains a cherished community hub while maintaining its historical significance.