Canadian Co-Op Wool Growers

CCWG markets the Canadian wool clip to global markets. For more than 70 years customers have been visiting this large, limestone building to see how wool is handled, starting with the wool grading operations, continuing with farm supplies and ending with high quality wool products. The building originally served as a roundhouse and shop for the Canadian Pacific Railway until 1939, employing as many as 200 workers. After railway operations moved to Smiths Falls in 1940, the Canadian Co-operative Wool Growers Limited purchased the building and opened the Livestock Supply Store for local farmers. The building was cleaned up and the scrap iron from the tracks and turntable was sold for the war effort. The company’s entire wool grading operation moved to Carleton Place in 1967, and the administration offices followed in 1972. Almost 3 million pounds of wool arrive in Carleton Place each year for grading! Also in the building you’ll find the CCWG Livestock Supply & Equestrian Centre which offers animal feeds, pet supplies, animal health products, fencing, feeders, tack and western clothing and much more. The Real Wool Shop Boutique opened in 1979 and is a major shopping attraction drawing customers from all over. In addition to specializing in wool products, you’ll find a wide range of ladies and men’s clothing and accessories along with high quality knitting supplies. It carries many Canadian made products and a unique assortment of items. Both stores offer online catalogues of their products through the company’s website www.wool.ca. There is also a mini museum with railway memorabilia on display.