Muskoka Blog » Historic Muskoka

Muskoka Lakes 100 Mile Cruise

Ed Boutilier — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 16:10:20 +0000

I was contacted by the ~~folks~~ crew at Woody Boater recently, a very cool website that is dedicated to classic boating and watercraft. I was honored that they asked if they could use some of my Muskoka Blog photos for a story they were working on.

On Saturday August 18th, 2012 departing from Gravenhurst the 100 Mile Cruise will be recreated on the RMS Segwun tracing the original route of the SS Sagamo steamship. There will be over 100 other wooden boats accompanying the 1887 built Segwun on her journey. The proceeds of this event are being donated to the Canadian Cancer Society.

For additional details Click Here for the Woody Boater article.

Vintage 1950 brochure of the 100 Mile Cruise

Vivienne II

Ed Boutilier — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 23:14:40 +0000

Most of the boats are now put away for the season. Sometimes when you prolong the inevitable you get lucky and catch a nice day with the opportunity to squeeze in one last boat ride. I caught the Vivienne II out for what was probably her last cruise of the season. I was on the leeward side of Tobin Island on Lake Rosseau and noticed the 31ft Minett-Shields built in the 1920′s gracefully gliding towards us like a dream.

Steamship Makeovers

Ed Boutilier — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 21:15:03 +0000

If you happen to pass through Port Carling you will notice the RMS Segwun Steamship is in for a pedicure and manicure. The locks have been drained creating a drydock while they perform the work. The Wenonah II is right behind her and will be taking her turn next.

Hiking Huckleberry Rock

Ed Boutilier — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 21:45:50 +0000

The weather was absolutely phenomenal this past Thanksgiving weekend so I decided to take advantage of it and hike up Huckleberry Rock. I was inspired to go back up the rock after I picked up a new book called The Hidden World of Huckleberry Rock, a collaboration between photographer Bev McMullen and writer Andrew Wagner-Chazalon. I had the pleasure of meeting both Bev and Andrew at their book launch last month. I highly recommend their book for the stunning pics and great stories on one of Muskoka’s best places to visit. If you have not made it up to Huckleberry Rock please put it on your Muskoka bucket list.

The Islands of Muskoka

Ed Boutilier — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 20:41:45 +0000

Most islands on the Big 3 lakes in Muskoka have unique names such as Sunbeam, Monyca or Lookout and have long and interesting histories associated with them. And then there are these numerous small insignificant islands that are basically rocks jutting out of the lake. We like to make up our own names for them – LOL. Some are completely barren with few trees or they can be occupied by flocks of weird birds. You need to be careful navigating around these chunks of granite as they are usually located in shallow waters. Captain – red marker port side!

Travelling Down the Joseph River

Ed Boutilier — Sat, 10 Sep 2011 23:18:45 +0000

Another scene from a Jestski - I left Lake Joseph and found my way into the Joseph River headed towards Lake Rosseau with the sun sinking on my back. I did a little spin-o-rama to try and catch the sunset at the top end of the river. There is an interesting boathouse here and I think maybe I will return on another day to capture it in more detail.

I have always wondered if the Joe River is a real river? It seems to be a rock cut that connects Lake Joseph to Lake Rosseau. I have heard Lady Eaton had the rocks blasted out many moons ago so she could have her steamship navigate through the rocks instead of traveling down to Port Sandfield. If you know the story please set me straight.

Best Buns!

Ed Boutilier — Sun, 28 Aug 2011 19:27:44 +0000

Have you ever tried the Cinnamon Buns from Silver Stream Farms located in the Port Sandfield General Store? They are to die for! I recommend you get there early because they sell out fast.

Bala Falls Power Struggle

Ed Boutilier — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 21:05:38 +0000

This is a shot from the south side of the Bala Falls on Lake Muskoka. There is a lot of controversy with regards to turning the falls into a new hydro electric dam site. Swift River Energy, a power company has been fighting to develop this site and many of the long term cottagers and locals are not too happy about it. Its been a war.

Windermere Buzz

Ed Boutilier — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 22:45:23 +0000

I had dinner over at Windermere House just recently. No, not in the pub or on the patio but in the main dining room. Yup, they let me in, I couldn’t believe it either – LOL.
The food services are now managed by Oliver & Bonacini this season and I have to say the food quality, ambiance and service was just superb. I don’t normally go plugging places on here but I do have to say after experiencing every resort and restaurant around Muskoka and area I have yet to find something that compares. It will be interesting to see how the off-season goes though.

I was at Windermere on a Friday night and the entire resort was just buzzing with everyone in such a great mood. The veranda area was jam packed with a gentle breeze drifting off the lake. A small band was performing with just the right jazzy rhythms. I closed my eyes and imagined what it must have been like back in the day. It felt like we were there. I’m going to have to swing by Windermere again just to see if I can capture that same feeling.

Muskoka Antique and Classic Boat Show Video

Ed Boutilier — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 22:41:08 +0000

A short video for those of you that didn’t make the annual Muskoka Antique and Classic Boat Show in Gravenhurst on July 9, 2011. As always, lots of interesting boats and things to see at the show. The boat show is put on each year by ACBS and it is a must visit for any boat enthusiast. This years feature boat was the Kittyhawk a 32-foot Gidley once owned by Orville Wright. Yup, the airplane guy who used to cottage on Georgian Bay. Thanks to CottageCountryNow.ca for the video.

MuskokaBlog Channel

The Boat Guy

Ed Boutilier — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:06:25 +0000

During the recent Doors Open Ontario event we had the opportunity to meet renowned Muskoka boat builder Stan Hunter, aka “BoatGuy”. Stan has been restoring and servicing some of the most prized antique and classic boats in the Muskoka area for decades. I have been told he is one of the best there is.

If you are ever interested in taking a classic Muskoka boat for a cruise, Stan also operates a business called Muskoka Launch Livery. He has a fleet of famous Muskoka built Duke Playmates each with their own unique history. You can rent these beauties at Stan’s location on Hwy #118 between Port Carling and Milford Bay right on Lake Muskoka. The photo is of an 18 ft Shepherd in for servicing. Please click on the image for a larger photo.

Where Fairies Sleep

Ed Boutilier — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 11:54:38 +0000

Another photo from the recent Fairyland visit during Doors Open Ontario event. This is the bedroom located upstairs in the cottage. Looks like it may have been a little chilly in the winter months.

Please click for a large photo.

Fairyland

Ed Boutilier — Mon, 04 Jul 2011 23:45:33 +0000

On June 25th I had the opportunity to tour some of the interesting properties in this years Doors Open Ontario for the Muskoka area. In 1929 twin sisters Marguerite Boyce and Violet Hobbs arrived in Bala, pitched a tent at what would become Jaspen Park on the Moon River near Bala and started to sell their paintings. A year later they put a $100 down payment on a nearby cottage called Hollyhock and started a love affair between themselves and Muskoka that would last for decades.

At first they sold their paintings, then expanded to a gift shop and eventually a tea room. One of the important features was the wishing well out front (still there) which was created at the beginning of WW II. Visitors were encouraged to throw coins in which helped send more than 1000 gift parcels to Canadian servicemen and prisoners-of-war during war time. They also developed children’s doll exhibits and several generations of kids regarded the Twins Studio as a very enchanting place. After Marguerite passed away in the 1950′s Violet renamed the studio Fairyland and would dress daily in organdy. Many children believed she was a real fairy.

While I was photographing the inside of the cottage two elderly ladies arrived and displayed gifts they had purchased as little girls. They were quite emotional as they described their Fairyland experiences and how magical it was for them to visit as children. It was the first time the doors of Fairyland had been open to the public since 1974.

For a more detailed story on Fairyland courtesy of Jack and Linda Hutton please Click Here

Benched

Ed Boutilier — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 01:28:31 +0000

I enjoy wandering around discovering places that you normally wouldn’t get to see when visiting the Muskoka area. I have been fortunate to meet a number of great people that have deep-rooted knowledge on the history of the area.

One of my connections brought me to this old secluded and abandoned place in the forest. I promised the owners I would not disclose the location as it is deeply cherished and private. Yup, secret Muskoka. There appeared to be a tennis court here at one time which has long since been forgotten. This old bench is all that remains woven into the memories of Muskoka.

Still Standing

Ed Boutilier — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 15:29:19 +0000

I noticed this old barn while driving down Brackenrig Rd in Muskoka. You wonder how it survives the strong winds and heavy loads during winter. I guess its a testament to the way things used to be built. Please click on the image for a larger photo

The Old Yellow Cabin

Ed Boutilier — Mon, 23 May 2011 17:55:45 +0000

Hope everyone enjoyed the Victoria Day long weekend. Finally some decent weather apart from Sunday nights thunder boomers. I noticed plenty of boats out on the water and even one brave water skier. The streets were busy in Bracebridge and Port Carling when I was passing through. A good sign.

As many of you already know I like to stay off the beaten paths. You never know what you will discover down that side road you have been driving by for years or veering off the regular trail. A rougher ride but far more interesting. Please click on the image for a large sized photo.

MuskokaBlog Channel

Ed Boutilier — Tue, 17 May 2011 23:10:22 +0000

I have setup a new YouTube Channel and plan to add some Muskoka videos this year. The first video (only 2 mins) is a Muskoka promo that was produced for the G8 meetings held in Muskoka, June 2010. It features the well known and very talented Jack Hutton of Bala.

MuskokaBlog Channel

Kicking off the Season

Ed Boutilier — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 13:48:02 +0000

Yes – the ice is out, finally! Its been taking a while for spring to arrive and there are still a few dusting’s of snow in the Muskoka area. This time last year I had my boat in the water so I would say the season is behind a tad. Nevertheless warmer weather is on the horizon. I suspect this Easter weekend will be the return for many people starting spring cleanups and opening their cottages. This is a photo of the Christ Church in Gregory which is between Port Sandfield and Minett, Ontario.

Beaumaris Dock

Ed Boutilier — Sun, 13 Mar 2011 16:12:51 +0000

Beaumaris is a well known settlement located on Todern Island within Lake Muskoka. You can reach it by traveling off Hwy #118 at Milford Bay. It was an important transit point in the steamboat era and once hosted the Beaumaris Hotel and a post office. Today there is a general store, marina, church, summer camp, yacht club and this cool government pier.

Please click on the image for a large size

Bohemia Island, Lake Rosseau

Ed Boutilier — Sun, 17 Oct 2010 18:19:38 +0000

The weather was cool but still warm enough to enjoy a seasonal boat ride without layering up too much. This is Bohemia Island on Lake Rosseau near Tobin Island not to be mistaken for North Bohemia which lies on the opposite side of Tobin Island closer to Juddhaven. I am not certain of its history however if its consistent with other Muskoka Islands I am sure it has a storied past.

Please click for a larger sized photo

Shadows

Ed Boutilier — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 13:07:36 +0000

Down the Indian River and through the Port Carling locks on a sunny afternoon. Where else do you get to see a scene like this?

Please click for a large photo

Gentleman’s Racers of Muskoka

Ed Boutilier — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 14:42:34 +0000

I dropped by the Antique Boat Show in Port Carling this past Saturday just as it was coming to an end. It was put on by the Muskoka Lakes Association better known as the MLA and this year they featured the Gentleman’s Racer. Many of the vintage boats were starting to make their way back home through the lock system and I hurriedly snapped a few shots. The locks in Port Carling straddle Lake Muskoka on one side and Lake Rosseau on the other. This is a very busy are and popular tourist destination. The hub of the lakes as its known.

If you are interested in the Gentleman’s Racer boats, check out Neil Honeymen’s book that documents many of the vintage boats of the area. And thanks Neil for including one of my photos of Dukes Marine

Passing By The Lady of the Lakes

Ed Boutilier — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 17:55:48 +0000

The sky was overcast and it threatened rain all day however that did not stop the crowds from coming out to the lawn for the Windermere House concert on July 24, 2010. As I was passing by in my boat I could hear the distinct sounds of Canadian tenor Michael Burgess and the National Academy Orchestra emanating from the lawn. Just as I started to take some shots this work boat swooshed by from out of the shadows.

Please click on the image for a larger sized photo

From The Mother In-Laws Seat

Ed Boutilier — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 14:19:47 +0000

This photo was taken from the mother in-laws seat in a 1930″s Ditchburn launch on Lake Rosseau in Muskoka. Unfortunately we were not allowed to bring cameras on the Muskoka Heritage Foundations annual Summer Tour. I snuck this low quality shot in from my iPhone as we were being transported across the lake by beautiful vintage boats. The summer tour was well organized and we had the privilege to learn about 3 very distinct and fascinating summer homes, Grey Rock, Monyca Island and Llanfair.

The Old Farm in Rest Harbour Muskoka

Ed Boutilier — Wed, 26 May 2010 12:15:44 +0000

This is all that remains of a farm in Rest Harbour on Lake Rosseau in Muskoka with the exception of the old boathouse across the road. The land, “owned free and clear to the waters edge” was originally deeded to the Wrenshall family dating back to 1884. It was amongst the first 20 free grants issued for Medora township. The Judd family purchased the property from the Wrenshall family around 1886.

Up until the 1940′s this property was only accessible by water. The steam ships would come into the docks and bring supplies. Of course in the winter everything was carted across the ice. The farm and a resort called Rest Harbour operated until the late 1960′s. Many of these historic places are disappearing from Muskoka.

I want to thank the numerous and knowledgeable people out in Blog land that have left comments, forwarded information, land surveys and photos to me. Thank you Deborah!

Off the Cleveland House Dock

Ed Boutilier — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 23:36:13 +0000

In about another month this dock will be filled with people lying in the sun, swimming, boats pulling up etc. This is at the world famous Clevelands House family resort located on about 3000 feet of prime Lake Rosseau frontage in Muskoka. Its a great place to explore, drop by for drinks, have dinner or people watch.

Wharfing Around

Ed Boutilier — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 13:47:18 +0000

It can be a little desolate walking around the Muskoka Wharf in the winter time. The Muskoka Wharf project is part of the $170M rebirth of the 89 acre waterfront in Gravenhurst that features the famous Muskoka Steamships, Grace & Speed Museum, shops and restaurants and many great events such as the Muskoka antique and classic boat show.

The Ghosts of Muskoka

Ed Boutilier — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 21:28:50 +0000

I decided I would take the long way home and drove through Bala early this morning. It was dead quiet and I noticed an empty Bala Bay Inn parking lot so I did a little u-turn and headed back for a few quick snaps.

The Bala Bay Inn was built in 1910 by Ephraim Browning Sutton from Leads in Yorkshire, England. Initially it was named The Swastika Hotel and due to the unpolitical correctness of the times it was renamed to the Sutton Manor in the early ’30s. In 1945 the name was changed to The Bala Bay Lodge, and in 1998 to The Bala Bay Inn.

E.B. Sutton died in room #319 of the hotel in 1917 and many of the staff and patrons say the Inn is haunted by him. There are Muskoka ghost tours and even seances that have been held here for you paranormal types.

Please click on the image for a 1280 pixel sized photo

A Pinball Wizard, There’s got to be a Twist

Ed Boutilier — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 14:37:42 +0000

Ever since I was a young boy
I’ve played the silver ball
From Huntsville down to Barrie
I must have played them all …

Just a few doors down from The Kee I could not resist a little peek inside the Balacade. It was like a journey back in time (gee now I’m dating myself) with vintage pinball machines and games crammed into the small room. Balacade is an arcade shop that was started in Bala Ontario over 50 years ago and is still run by the original owner Paul Arney and his wife Patricia. Please click on the pic or HERE for a biggie 1280 pixel photo

Balacade Story

Snooping on Snoop Dogg at the Kee to Bala

Ed Boutilier — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:57:45 +0000

Snoop Dogg in The House Cottage
The rapper / hip hop artist, Snoop Dogg or formerly known as Snoop Doggy Dogg played two sold out nights at The Kee to Bala August 13 & 14, 2009. I took a drive by (perhaps not the best choice of words) just to see what kind of crowd he would draw in Muskoka’s cottage country. It turns out the Snoopster drew a large crowd … of Cops.

Unfortunately I did not get a chance to take a decent shot under the high security situation. (required high ISO and there were lots of moving) There have been a lot of interesting bands come through The Kee including, Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong in the old days. There has also been other great bands like Rush, Max Webster, David Wilcox, George Thorogood, The Ramones, Tragically Hip, Blue Rodeo and others that have rocked The Kee.

The Ditchburns of Muskoka

Ed Boutilier — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 21:15:19 +0000

In 1869, four Ditchburn descendants, brothers William, Henry, John and Arthur, emigrated to Canada from England. They settled in the village of Rosseau, Ontario. When the resort industry in Muskoka began to flourish. The Ditchburn brothers turned to what they new best, their family tradition of boat building.

After about 20 years of building small craft in Rosseau, the Ditchburns, moved their operations to the Muskoka Wharf area of Gravenhurst in 1890. Gravenhurst had much more traffic as the trains arrived and the steamers departed for various parts of the lakes. The Ditchburn is considered one of the most cherished crafts and a household name in Muskoka.

This is the identification plate off of the 31 ft launch On Behalf Of Sam, a 1930′s Ditchburn docked in Gravenhurst Bay.
Ditchburn History

Please click on the image for a large sized photo.

In the Belly of a Muskoka Steamship

Ed Boutilier — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 17:54:28 +0000

I had a chance to spend some time in the pilothouse with the Captain of the R.M.S. Segwun steamship in Gravenhurst earlier this month. I thought it would be rather fitting to also visit the engine room to see whats happening. Well you can see by the look of crew Grumpy that he was none to pleased to see me and my camera. Oh well, I’m sure he got over it.

Mary Lake at Port Sydney, Ontario

Ed Boutilier — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 14:08:32 +0000

The welcome sign says “Home of 800 nice families and 1 old grouch” in Port Sydney, Ontario.
Located approximately 12 km’s south of Huntsville and just off highway #11. This is the area next years G8 Summit will be held.

Port Sydney is situated on Mary Lake and is also part of the North Muskoka River. See Google Map

Please Click the image for a G8 sized photo

The Gravenhurst Antique and Classic Boat Show

Ed Boutilier — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:07:40 +0000

I noticed this mammoth monster sized boat in Port Carling last year. Someone told me it used to be Conrad Black’s boat but I’m not sure about that. Connie did like things a tad grandiose so its always possible.

Just a reminder that this Saturday July 11, 2009 is the 29th annual Antique and Cassic Boat Show down in Gravenhurst. All the classic boats will be there along with a flea market, steam boat rides and more …
Its definitely worth checking out. More info here and here

Take Me to Your Captain

Ed Boutilier — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 13:41:54 +0000

It was a blustery 4th of July when I had a chance to board the R.M.S. Segwun steamship out of Gravenhurst, Ontario. The Segwun is North Americas oldest operating steamship and one of the crown jewels of Muskoka. The R.M.S. designation stands for “Royal Mail Ship” and you can still mail a letter or postcard from her today. I had the opportunity to spend some time in the pilothouse with the Captain discussing his many adventures on the Muskoka Lakes.

Put it on your bucket list if you are visiting Muskoka or plan to in the future
Steamship schedule and info

Please click on the image for a Steamship sized photo

Summerholm, a piece of history in Muskoka

Ed Boutilier — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 15:10:38 +0000

Summerholm is a landmark property located on Lake Joseph. The original owners first log cabin built in 1856 still stands today. The original main cottage was completed in 1894. The cottage was constructed from stone found on the property and the lumber from Lamberts saw mill located next door.

The elements of the interior design reflected the arts and crafts movement of the time and would include oak floors, ceiling beams, stained glass and dark woodwork. The main living room was two stories high with an upper gallery that was home to a large pump organ. The owners would bring their own cow from Rosedale, Ontario so that they would have fresh milk all summer. This beautiful and historic property has been in the same family for five generations.

Please click for a large photo

Muskoka Boathouses, Eye Candy on the Lakes

Ed Boutilier — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 13:17:52 +0000

One of the key attributes of Muskoka are the numerous boathouses nestled in on the shorelines. I don’t believe there is anything else like this in the world. They can range from little one slip shacks to gigantic mansions with helicopter pads. Many of them offer a deep and interesting history. Whether its a summer home to a previous US President, Hollywood movie star, designs by a famous architects or a property that dates back to the 1800′s they are all interesting to see.

People are always asking to see more of these boathouses so I will make an attempt to include them as I travel throughout the lakes.

Please click on the image for a large 1280 pixel size

Searching for a Hearth of Gold

Ed Boutilier — Thu, 14 May 2009 12:03:03 +0000

I want to live …
I want to give …
I have been a miner for a heart hearth of gold

While driving down old highway #69 in Muskoka this time of year you can catch a glimpse of something through the trees. For years now I have been meaning to stop and wander through the bush to see what it is.

This fireplace is in remarkable shape considering there is no sign of any buildings being around. I assume there must have been a cabin here at one time but I’m not sure how they would have fastened the foundation as this is situated on a giant rock. Sometimes you never know what lurks only a few feet away.

Thanks Doctor C. for the tip

(Click on the image for a large size)

Ice Out Milford Bay, Muskoka Lake

Ed Boutilier — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 21:13:58 +0000

The sun was sinking fast and I wanted to try and get one more photo in before dark. I was driving across highway #118 towards Bracebridge and remembered Milford Bay. As I cruised down the side road I noticed this little creek draining into Lake Muskoka.

It won’t be long now until the ice has disappeared and us Canadians can don the obligatory, shorts, T’s and Sneaks.

Click Photo for a Glacier Sized Image

The Ghost Town of Swords, Ontario (Muskoka)

Ed Boutilier — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 23:27:17 +0000

This is the general store and former post office in the ghost town of Swords, Ontario located in the district of Muskoka. It is abandoned uninhabited now and has been for quite a while. In 1894 a lumber company was established here and the town was called Maple Station with trains passing through up to 20 times per day. Later the towns name was changed to avoid confusion with another Maple Station. The Sword family operated the general store until 1930. The lumber ran out, the train station closed in 1946 and the post office shut down in 1966 with most residents moving away.

NOTE: Although many of these types of properties are abandoned or unoccupied please remember they are still private property. Please respect the rights of these owners and do not go crawling through them without obtaining prior permission. (Swords photos taken from the roadside)

Ontario Abandoned Places

For a General Store Sized Photo Click on the Image – 1280

Click Image for Biggie Size

Click Image for Super Sized 1280 version

Put up your Dukes in Muskoka Canada

Ed Boutilier — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 16:26:17 +0000

Things looked a little quiet and bleak when I passed by Dukes in Port Carling recently. Dukes is a historic place in Muskoka with a long history of classic boat building. I had a chance to tour the facility last year and witnessed the restoration of some old Ditchburns and Minett-Shields classic woodies. They occasionally have an open house for the public and if you get the chance I highly recommend you take the opportunity to step back in time.

Click on the image for a large launch sized photo

The Rick Mercer Report visits Muskoka Canada

Ed Boutilier — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 20:01:03 +0000

For a good laugh here is the Rick Mercer Report filmed in Muskoka last year.

The Church on the Hill in Gregory

Ed Boutilier — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 01:32:26 +0000

On the Lake Rosseau side of the fence there is an old Anglican Church – The Christ Church of Gregory.

Well its time to take a small Blog break. I have not had many chances to get up north this winter but will return for New Years. I’m headed to the Caribbean in search of sandy white beaches and mixed concoctions. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and all the other correct Seasonal Greetings. See you in 2009 – Cheers!

Click Image for Santa Claus Belly Size

Conn Stafford Smythe R.I.P. in beautiful Muskoka

Ed Boutilier — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 15:03:29 +0000

Toronto Maple Leaf fans are hoping for the turning over of a new leaf (no pun intended) with the signing of Brian Burke as the new President and GM announced recently. With this news I thought of Conn Stafford Smythe who rests peacefully across the road from my cottage overlooking Lake Rosseau in Muskoka. Stafford was the son of the great Conn Smythe and only lived to the age of 50 while embroiled in controversy with control of the Leafs and Maple Leaf Gardens.

They have changed Stafford’s headstone in recent years as it used to read; “He was dearly loved by his wife, children, and many friends, he was persecuted to death by his enemies. Now he sleeps peacefully in the quiet north country that loved him for the person he was”

Please click on the photo for a larger image

The Leaning Doors of Rosseau

Ed Boutilier — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:46:42 +0000

I posted a similar shot of these doors I found up in Rosseau back in June. Many liked them so I thought I would show from the opposite angle.

Looking Back at Bala Falls

Ed Boutilier — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:55:47 +0000

While taking a drive through the town of Bala in Muskoka its hard not to miss the Save the Bala Falls signs. Many locals and cottagers are very upset at the possible destruction of the natural beauty of these falls with a proposed hydroelectric plant being built. This photo was taken “looking back” at the road over the dam and railway bridge near Purks Place and the old stone church.

The Sun Sets Over Clevelands House in Muskoka

Ed Boutilier — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 16:08:14 +0000

The sun sets over Clevelands House to end another summer/fall season in Muskoka. I took this photo from a new trail that opened up along the shoreline from the Wallace Marina over to the New Red Leaves Resort. Of course Red Leaves now owns Clevelands and the entire shoreline around to the resort. It has to be close to 2 miles of shoreline on Lake Rosseau in Muskoka – do the math.

Click for bigger size

The Old Cranberry Truck in Bala, Ontario

Ed Boutilier — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 23:49:45 +0000

Just before the Cranberry Festival hit the Town of Bala I made a trip over to Johnston’s Cranberry Farm. The leaves were almost peaking and the sun was warm at least compared to now. This old truck was or is used for the harvest of cranberries on the farm. It looks like it probably still works.

Lock #45 Port Severn, Ontario

Ed Boutilier — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 13:05:12 +0000

When you take highway # 400 north to cottage country you pass over the Severn River that empties into Georgian Bay. This is the township of Port Severn or Severn as its known today. Severn is part of the Trent Severn waterway that is 387 km’s long and consists of 44 locks, 39 swing bridges and 160 dams. This photo was taken near lock #45 the smallest of them all.

Out in Muskoka’s Cranberry Patch

Ed Boutilier — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 22:00:09 +0000

Muskoka has two large cranberry farms and makes the claim that they are the Cranberry capital of Ontario. This photo was taken at the Johnston Family Farm near Bala at harvest time. They have been growing Cranberries here for over 50 years.

Cranberry Marsh in Muskoka Canada