A Mill Behind Every Stump

In 1922, the Judson family arrived in the Cariboo region by covered wagon and quickly established themselves in the burgeoning forest industry. Two years later, their son Lewis was born in Ashcroft, BC, and has remained in the area for most of his life. Recounting his memories and family lore to local historian and author Maryann Van Osch, Louis Judson tells fascinating tales of working at a gold mine in Braloren at a young age, of riding the trails, of losing his foot in a milling accident, and witching for gold and water. A Mill Behind Every Stump is an engaging look at the Judsons’ history and the unique culture and communities that developed, flourished, and declined around the early sawmills in the Cariboo, in an era before chainsaws and skidders. It is a testament to hard work, extreme risk, great perseverance – and the gift of storytelling.