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12:15pm
13 June 1997
Strome, Alberta


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Unfortunately, the mill was never able to make as much profit as was assumed in the prospects. This loss of profits caused the mill to change hands many times and by 1930 it was in the stage of disrepair. In 1931, M.J. McCuaig owned the mill for ten years; managing to turn enough profits to keep the mill in good running condition. This is very commendable as this was accomplished during the Great Depression. With the advent of World War II, Mr. Quaig was asked to run the mill continuously to supply flour as many European mills were being destroyed. Mr. McCuaig did not wish to run the flour mill, so he sold it to two men from Okotoks, Alberta. From 1942 to 1953, it is estimated that the mill produced 150 million pounds of flour. During this time period, the mill was converted from coal to electricity.

After 1953, the great demand for flour tapered off and again the mill slowed down. The doors to the mill finally closed in 1958 except for occasional orders to local bakers up until 1967. The owners eventually went into the full time business of mixing and grinding feeds for livestock, along with selling veterinary supplies. Eventually the Blaeser brothers, Ed and Ray of Strome and Killam purchased the mill and changed its name to Strome Feed Services.

Prior to burning down in on July 13, 1997, the Strome Feed Mill was owned and operated by Brian Steiger of Strome.