Claybank Brick Silo

This structure is of heritage value for its design and construction. A rare example on the Prairies of a silo constructed of brick, this Blue Hills area landmark was built during 1924-25 using brick culled from the production of the nearby Claybank Brick plant due to minor imperfections. The brick portion of the silo extends 6.1 metres in height, with a distinctive 19-sided roof adding an extra 2.7 metres in height to the structure. The walls of the silo are about 30.5 centimetres thick and consist of an inner and outer course of brick separated by an air space, which was incorporated to prevent freezing of the silage. The 2.4-metre-deep pit was lined with the same culled brick.

The unique silo was built for homesteader Calvin (H.C.) Mercer to store feed for his small dairy herd. Mercer built the silo so that his herd would always have consistent, high-quality feed and thereby produce a premium quality of cream.

Source:

Rural Municipality of Baildon No. 131, Bylaw No. 1/08.