The factory first opened in 1901 as the McKinnon Dash & Metal Works Limited plant and produced carriages and wagons but also produced metal pieces for carriages and wagons.

McKinnon Dash and metal was acquired by General Motors in 1929 and GM converted the facility into a powertrain plant.

[1] In the late 1970s, the plant began to experience layoffs due to industrial decline in the city.

[2] The plant produced engine and transmission components and final drive assemblies for GM's powertrains.

BayShore Groups had plans to redevelop the site into a mixed-use commercial and residential space.