2008
Lock #45 Port Severn, Ontario
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.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2008
Out in Muskoka’s Cranberry Patch
Cranberry Marsh in Muskoka Canada
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, tripin around towns, uncategorized
2008
Exploring the Ghost Town of Swords Ontario
Swords Rd. (click image for biggie size)
2008
A walk through the Muskoka Forest
The fall colors were at peak this past Thanksgiving weekend and you couldn’t ask for better weather. I was lucky enough to tag along on a nature hike with one of Canada’s foremost naturalists, Robin Tapley. The nature hike was courtesy of Red Leaves Muskoka Resort who have setup an impressive 700 acre nature preserve with trails for hiking, skiing and biking which will be open to the public to explore.
Another picture taken from one of the many trails deep into the Muskoka wild and marshland. I highly recommend anyone who spends time in Muskoka to take a walk through these trails. I noticed they are building a maple sugar camp in the bush which will be ready for the spring thaw.
2008
Purks Place in Bala another Muskoka landmark slated for teardown
Their motto is Boats and Bait since 1908. Purks Place is a Muskoka landmark located on Burgess Island at the Bala Falls in Bala, Ontario. It appears Purk’s will be no more. In the near future a hydro electric power plant is slated to be built in its place. Some of the locals have been in opposition to this and have setup a website savethebalafalls.com
Interesting article by local Bala author and musician Jack Hutton. Who Cares About Purks’s Place?
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2008
Bracebridge Fall Fair Revisited
Another photo from the recent Bracebridge fall fair. I noticed these two beauties, a Fairlane 500 and a 1931 Ford Model A with a rumble seat. My father used collect cars and had one like this. When I was a kid we would ride into town in one of those bumpy rumble seats -man we thought we were so cool waving to everyone while it put-putted away.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, tripin around towns
2008
Interesting Boathouses on the Muskoka Lakes
One of the most striking things you notice when visiting Muskoka are the many types of beautiful boathouses. They vary from rustic to charming to grandiose architectural styles. Many of these boathouses feature beautiful sitting rooms, bathrooms, exercise rooms and grand bedrooms. Sometimes driving past you can get a peak at the prized Muskoka antique boats like the Ditchburns, Minette-Shields, Dippys and Greavettes etc.
This photo is of a boathouse on a Lake Rosseau island. It appears someone really loves his sailboat.
In: boathouses of muskoka, historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2008
Huckleberry Rock Trail overlooking Lake Muskoka
Huckleberry Rock is one of the most scenic views in all of Muskoka. You can find the trail just off the road that takes you to Milford Bay. These rocks are some of the oldest rocks in the world, well over a billion years old. I will return in late autumn to catch some of the vivid colors.
“Mama always told me not to look into the eyes of the sun. But, Mama, that’s where the fun is.
“Blinded by the light” — Bruce Springsteen.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2008
Cruising Through the Backroads of Muskoka
I did not know exactly were I was when I found this old 1942 Dodge sitting in a farmers field. Sitting across the road there was a small monument that said, The Hamlet Bardsville, Est 1865. There was a for sale sign on the fence so if your looking for a new set of wheels …
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, tripin around towns
2008
Muskoka boat season, excuse me I am not done yet
Ok so its only September, I mean there’s no reason to pack up and leave yet although most have done so. Boating season still has at least 2 months to go for me and the odd other nut bar I see around the lakes. We are Canadians and we have to stretch it out as long as we can even if it does mean blue fingers and toes.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2008
The Chessboard at Clevelands House in Muskoka
While driving back from the Rosseau farmers market the other morning I decided to take a little side trip into Clevelands House which is one of the last remaining 100 year old resorts still standing in Muskoka. I noticed this really cool giant chess set in the back area for guests to play. Most of the people were down at the water but I would imagine there have been a few interesting matches here in the evenings.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2008
The Church on Lake Rosseau in Muskoka Canada
When you travel north past Cleveland’s House in Minett and towards Royal Muskoka Island you will find this very distinctive church on the waters edge. This is St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Morinus, Ontario. They celebrated their 100th anniversary in 2002. I have often caught glimpses of brides arriving in old Muskoka woodies for their big day. There are some images you cannot capture with a lens however they do remain etched in my brain.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2008
Inside Dukes Boatbuilders of Muskoka
I was lucky enough to get a tour of Dukes Marine Services in Port Carling, Ontario at the hub of the Muskoka Lakes. Dukes has been around for a very long time and used to build rowboats, launches and even produced minesweepers during the Second World War. Charles Duke moved his business to this particular site in 1924. Dukes beautifully crafted Playmate boats are still often spotted on the lakes in Muskoka. Today the shop refurbishes many of the classics from yesteryear including Greavettes, Minett-Shields and Ditchburns.
In: boathouses of muskoka, historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2008
Take the Time Machine, Visit the Rosseau General Store Circa 1874
Located at the northern tip of Lake Rosseau at Hwys # 141 and # 632 you will find the famous Rosseau General Store.
Not only is it a tourist destination its also one of the best places for groceries, hardware and supplies in the area.
Built in 1874 the two-storey white frame building is much the same as it was 100 years ago.
The creaky wooden floors and interior displays are like taking time machine back to another era.
Rosseau General Store
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2008
Not Everyone has a Million Dollar Place in Muskoka
While driving just outside of Minett, Ontario in the Muskoka district I noticed these decrepit old buildings along the roadside. I haven’t been around the area long enough to know their history. I am sure all of these old homesteads will vanish over the next few years especially with the new Red Leaves Resort going in around the corner.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, tripin around towns
2008
Behind the doors of Muskoka
I am always intrigued by doors. Whats behind them? Who goes in them? Do they come back out of them? How did they get to look like this? What gnawed the hole through at the bottom and who put those latches on it? I was walking down the main street of Bracebridge in Muskoka, Ontario and saw this door in the alleyway of an old building. Now I have to go back to see what the building was for.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, tripin around towns, uncategorized
2008
The Muskoka Antique Boat Show in Gravenhurst Ontario
The Antique and Classic Boat Society, (ACBS) had their annual Muskoka boat show this past weekend at the Muskoka Wharf in Gravenhurst. This show featured many of the classic boats from yesteryear including Ditchburns, Dukes, Minett-Shields, Greavettes, Peterboroughs, Dippy’s, Sea Birds, Hackers and more.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2008
Tripping around the small towns of Muskoka Canada
Sometimes taking a little peek around the corner pays off. I discovered these cool old doors around the side of the building that sells antiques in the town of Rosseau, Ontario. The building was just crammed with memorabilia and assorted stuff that someone must want.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, tripin around towns, uncategorized
2008
Antique hunting in the town of Rosseau, (Muskoka) Ontario, Canada
At the north end of Lake Rosseau you will find the Town of Rosseau which is situated on Hwy 141. There is a great general store and a few other shops and galleries including this interesting antique shop. Don’t forget to stop here for ice cream as its one of the best places in all of Muskoka. While I was taking some pictures an incognito gentleman walking his dog sauntered by. Good to see you Ed Grimley.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2008
The Classic Wooden Boats of Muskoka include the 1930 Ditchburn
Here is another shot of “On Behalf Of Sam” a 31 foot Ditchburn beauty built in 1930. Taken from the docks at Port Sandfield in Muskoka on a sunny Sunday afternoon.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2008
Sullivan Island on Lake Joseph in Muskoka Canada
There are many islands within the Muskoka lakes district. This is Sunbeam Sullivan Island on Lake Joseph. (thanks Jamie for the correction on the name) I am not sure of its history but I am sure it has an interesting one with its wrap around veranda and big lake views or “vistas” as the real estate marketer extraordinaire’s call it. This baby can be picked up for a mere 1.99M
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2008
Ditchburn and other Classic Boats of the Muskoka Lakes
On any given day on the Muskoka Lakes you can spot the beautifully crafted boats that were built in this region almost one century ago. “On Behalf Of Sam” a 31 foot Ditchburn built in 1930 was spotted on Lake Joe out for a Sunday cruise.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2008
An Old Cabin on Lake Joseph, Muskoka
I discovered this old cabin on a small island while traveling towards the north end of Lake Joseph. It is still possible to find old cabins and cottages around the Muskoka Lakes that date back over 100 years. New development has not taken everything.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2008
The Boatworks of Port Carling, Muskoka
The Boatworks of Port Carling, Muskoka
The Port Carling, Ontario Boat Works was established in 1925. During the Depression, the company sold the most stock production inboard boats in Canada. Their famous SeaBird launches were built on site and at a branch plant at Honey Harbour.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2008
The Six Waterskiers on Lake Rosseau
Zooming out of Clevelands House – the six waterskiers
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2008
The Dempster Cottage (Former Big B Camp) built in 1894 Muskoka, Canada
Doors Open Ontario presented an opportunity to look at some interesting places.
Dempster Cottage (Former Big B Camp) built in 1894, located on Lake Muskoka
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2008
Cruising the Muskoka lakes
While cruising down Lake Joesph on Saturday I spotted the Segwun Steamship anchored at the Sherwood Inn
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2008
The Sun Sets on Muskoka’s Historic Marygrove
For those of you following the story about Marygrove formerly the Glen Home Hotel circa 1939 in Muskoka.
Well shes gone now. Hope The Sisters are happy.
See also: The Wrecking Ball Takes Down Another Historic Muskoka Landmark
and …
The Continuing Destruction of Muskoka Courtesy of your Muskoka Lakes Township Council
The Sun Sets on Marygrove
Twisted Sisters Stoves Waiting for the Scrap Man
And after a hard days work remember to drink Muskoka Dry
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2008
The Kee to Bala, A Muskoka Favorite
The Kee opened for business in the summer of 1942 and was originally named Dunn’s Pavilion.
It has been a favorite to many that have visited the Muskoka area.
In the 1940s and ‘50s, Big Bands like Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong played here.
Since the 1960s, rockers like David Wilcox, Kim Mitchell, The Ramones, April Wine, Rush, Burton Cummings, The Tragically Hip, 54-40 and the late great Jeff Healey played at The Kee.
Check out this year’s lineup: www.thekee.com
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2008
The Continuing Destruction of Muskoka, Courtesy of your Muskoka Lakes Township Council
The developers came with the worlds greatest plans and we wrote all down as the progress of man …
The previous post about Marygrove formerly the Glen Home Hotel circa 1939 seems to have created quite a stir. I received many e-mails and comments from people that are very furious with what has transpired here.
The Muskoka Lakes heritage committee and the Architectural Conservancy of Ontario had recommended that Marygrove be preserved due to its historical and architectural significance. The Muskoka Lakes township council ignored these request and decided to grant demolition permits and rezoning to allow for four new cottage lots to be developed instead. This hapless and cavalier decision resulted in the resignation of all seven Muskoka Lakes heritage committee members.
This photo was taken from the docks of the Lake Joe Club on Saturday May 24, 2008. It shows the last standing portion of Marygrove which is now reduced to rubble. The oblivious expressions of the boaters are rather fitting.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2008
The wrecking ball takes down another historic Muskoka landmark.
Marygrove (formerly Glen Home Hotel) was an important historical structure on the shores of Lake Joseph, Muskoka. It was a rare example of streamline moderne architectural style built in 1939.
It was operated as the Glen Home Hotel until labour day 1974. In 1975 it was purchased by the Sisters of St. Joseph and used as a seasonal religous retreat, renamed Marygrove. The Sisters put the site up for sale last year with no takers. They recently applied for rezoning from commercial to residential and received a demolition permit from town council. It seems the property is more marketable by carting everything off to landfill and making 4 new cottage lots. They wasted no time in tearing it down. Below is a photo showing part of the structure that’s still standing. Next week it will become a memory.
Article from the Bracebridge Examiner
Article from the Globe and Mail
Article from The Architectural Conservancy of Ontario
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2008
Pumped in Muskoka Canada
Well it wasn’t the warmest Victoria Day weekend on record
As we left on Monday ice pellets were coming down
While at Windermere House in Muskoka I decided to escape the hoopla and take a walk down to the docks
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2008
The Lady of the Lakes, Windermere in Muskoka Canada
This past weekend was the grand re-opening (new owner) of the famous Windermere House. Originally built in 1870 “The Lady of the Lakes” sits on Lake Rosseau in Muskoka. It has just gone a major makeover with updated rooms, new dining areas including a sushi bar and a very cool pub which I of course tested out.
Back in 1996 during the filming of The Long Kiss Goodbye, Windermere burned to the ground when one of the production lights caught fire. It was rebuilt to its original glory back in 1997 and today remains a very popular place to visit in Muskoka. You can sometimes catch Canadian hockey players like Steve Yzerman, Eric Lindros, Shayne Corson and Darcy Tucker chillin with family and friends as all have cottages near by.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2008
Muskoka’s Port Sandfield Marina still flooded out while Victoria Day weekend quickly approaches
With the Victoria day long weekend quickly approaching the folks at the Port Sandfield Marina in Muskoka are sure hoping for the lake levels to drop. At present the water is rolling over their docks. Lake Muskoka appears to be back to normal however Lakes Joseph and Rosseau remain a bit high. Port Sandfield is where Lake Joe and Rosseau connect and is a well known stop for gas, shopping and supplies.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns, uncategorized
2008
North Americas oldest operating Steamship in Muskoka, Canada
Another shot of North Americas oldest operating steamship located in Muskoka, Ontario, Canada. They will start cruising in early June. These famous steamships can be seen in the town of Gravenhurst right on the new waterfront development area which is on Lake Muskoka.
The “Grace & Speed” Muskoka Boat and Heritage Center is located here as well and worthy of some time.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns, uncategorized
