The Ministry of Natural Resources is currently working on a decision regarding an application to rename Crane Island (Lake Joseph) to Stowe Island. But why Stowe? Let’s talk about the incredible history behind the name.
The Story Behind Stowe Island: Honouring Dr. Emily Howard Jennings Stowe
Dr. Emily Howard Jennings Stowe was a trailblazer, a woman who defied the conventions of her time to make a lasting impact on Canadian society. Born in 1831, Emily Stowe became a pivotal figure in Canada’s history as the first licensed female physician in the country. Yet her legacy extends beyond her medical achievements; she was also a driving force behind women’s education and suffrage.
Raised in a Quaker family that valued education for both genders, Emily was encouraged to pursue knowledge from a young age. Though denied entry to the University of Toronto’s medical school due to her gender, she persisted by studying in the United States, graduating from the New York Medical College for Women in 1867.
The treatment she endured set the stage for change, leading to her involvement in founding the Ontario Medical College for Women in 1883. This institution was crucial in providing women with access to medical training in Canada. Emily’s daughter, Augusta Stowe-Gullen, followed in her footsteps, becoming the first woman to graduate with a medical degree from a Canadian university.
The Stowes’ connection to Lake Joseph began in 1883, with the purchase of an island for the family’s retreat, a sanctuary for Emily and her husband, John, to escape the rigours of their work. Named “Stowe Island,” it was designed as a peaceful haven, complete with flower beds, vegetable gardens, and cozy summer cottages. Here, Emily found respite amid her relentless campaigning for women’s rights and equal opportunities.
This island, now known as Crane Island, holds a remarkable legacy. Renaming it Stowe Island would not only honour Emily’s contributions to medical and social reforms in Canada but also her enduring impact on future generations, symbolizing the vision and commitment that inspired her life’s work. She is someone worth remembering.
Old Muskoka
Much of this information is available as one resource in the fabulous book Old Muskoka: Century Cottages and Summer Estates by Liz Lundell. If you are interested in historic estates in Muskoka this is a must read. I am often look to as a resource for information about Muskoka (so flattering!!), and this is one of the books that I referred to often while trying to learn as much as I possibly could about Muskoka and the Big Three (Lake Muskoka, Lake Rosseau, and Lake Joseph).
I hope you enjoyed learning about legacy behind Stowe Island. I will let you know if the change in name is approved by the ministry. If you have any questions, feel free to email me at len@cottageinmuskoka.ca. And don’t forget to check out our Instagram @cottageinmuskoka for more Muskoka content.
Hey there, Muskoka friends and family! Big things are happening around Lake Rosseau… again! The Minett Muskoka development discussions range from a concept drawing of a giant concert venue discovered online, to the planned redevelopment at Clevelands House. While growth can be exciting, it’s also got many of us wondering: at what cost? How can we grow while also preserving what makes Muskoka, Muskoka? Let’s talk about what can be done, and why your voice in this is more important than ever.
The Heart of Muskoka: What’s Changing in Minett?
Minett is no stranger to change, but recent development rumours are turning more heads than usual. First up, there’s talk about a ‘HotelLIVE!’ concert venue that’s aiming to be a big deal – think bigger than Toronto’s Budweiser Stage! Yep, that means potentially 20,000 concert-goers right here in the heart of Muskoka Lakes, based on the concept drawings the company posted online. Add to that the makeovers at Clevelands House and the new Legacy Cottages, and it’s clear the vibe in Minett is about to change.
To be clear, the 20,000 capacity concert venue is not something that has been approved by the Township of Muskoka Lakes yet. All that has been approved so far is are some summer outdoor concerts. I think the would-be developer may have gotten a little ahead of themselves posting the concept drawings online for the public to see before even seeking approval from the Township. But, at least they were nice enough to give us extra detail… like marking the ponds along Five Bridges Path “ponds to be filled.” Umm, environmental assessment please!
Big Plans, Big Concerns:
Let’s break down some of the concerns that have been echoed by the Muskoka Lakes community in the comments of our recent posts:
Traffic Jamming on Peninsula Road: Imagine 20,000 people trying to leave a concert at the same time. Peninsula Road doesn’t exactly measure up to Highway 401, and traffic coming over the bridge at Port Sandfield is already a fun little challenge during peak season, isn’t it?
Noise, Noise, Noise: Ever wonder how far the sound from a massive concert goes? According to a good ol’ Google, sound from a concert can be heard up to a few miles away… and when 20,000 fans are rocking out, that’s not just background noise for a quiet evening by the lake. Speaking of a quiet evening by the lake – water doesn’t absorb sound as effectively as land does, and areas with less ambient sound (like a quiet lake at night) make it easier to hear sound from further away.
Night Moves: Picture it—thousands leaving a concert, potentially a bit tipsy, navigating our roads and lakes in the dark. A little anxiety inducing, no? Especially on top of the extra anxiety we’ve all felt after an increase in boating accidents over the last few summers. What if there’s a fire somewhere during this traffic mayhem? Or what if there’s an emergency at the concert venue itself? Emergency services aren’t exactly nearby. Not to mention the strain already facing our hospital…
Environmental Worries: Remember when Wallace Bay had its own drama, like that unfortunate sewage spill from JW Marriott The Rosseau? It’s been sorted, but it’s a reminder that our environment needs TLC, not more stress. Between Legacy Cottages, Clevelands House, and the JW Marriott The Rosseau, By the way – the Official Plan Amendment that designated Minett a ‘Resort Village’ does include rules about being connected to municipal services.
And on the same environmental angle – according to the neighbours, who used to walk Five Bridges Path regularly, the field that was just cleared was teeming with wildlife. Milkweed for butterflies, regular deer sightings, breeding frogs, a turtle in the pond (that I’m told the Marriott had even named!). Check out the before pictures below, some submitted by the community (thank you!) and some from social media. You can check out current pictures here.
Overdevelopment Concerns: Minett’s charm is in its quaintness. Yes, it’s been designated as a resort area… but if we let developers go too far, it will lose what made it desirable to begin with. Luckily, the Official Plan Amendment regarding Minett aims to ensure new development respects the area’s natural beauty and environmental sensitivity. Let’s make sure they stick to that.
Property values: This project actually coming to fruition could certainly harm property values in the area. But there’s no cause for panic. First of all, Clevelands House redevelopments aren’t even slated to start yet (The Ontario Land Tribunal hearing doesn’t start until May). Second, if this concert venue concept is even approved (BIG if), between approvals, permits, and construction, it would be years off. So no need to look at selling yet! Now’s the time to get involved and make your voice heard, but it’s far too soon to be anxious from a real estate standpoint.
What Can You Do to Help?
Here’s the thing: it basically just comes down to speaking up! Community engagement has a huge role in shaping development outcomes in Muskoka – just look at Clevelands House, and the work done by the MLA and the community to change the number of allowed units from 4000 to 1700. Love the idea of more attractions in Minett or worried about losing the quiet beauty of our lakes? Either way, it’s time to get involved.
Stay Informed: Knowledge is power. Keep up with local news, attend town hall meetings, and read up on what we know about the concept so far. Any new information we find will be shared here and on our Instagram account @cottageinmuskoka. Should the need for a petition arise, we will make sure to inform you. The MLA (Muskoka Lakes Association) does a fantastic job at keeping the community informed. If you aren’t a member yet, it’s worth looking into.
Speak Up: Got something to say? Social media, community forums, and public meetings are great places to share your thoughts. We started covering this topic because of the neighbours in the area causing a stir. A massive “thank you” to them!
Engage with Decision-Makers: Send your feedback to the folks making the calls. Writing to the Township of Muskoka Lakes would be a great start. For example, the trailers on the field property behind the Marriott are not on the site plan – I’m told that could potentially subject the owner to a fine, so I’ll be emailing the Township to confirm. Note – this is not a by-law infraction, so please don’t use the form below for this.
Report Concerns: Notice someone breaking a by-law? The Township of Muskoka Lakes has a webform for reporting by-law infractions, which can be used to make an official complaint.
Wrapping Up
The direction we take in Muskoka Lakes depends on all of us. Whether you’re excited about the prospect of more to do in Minett, or protective of the peace, staying engaged is key. After all, Muskoka has a lot worth protecting… and its future is in our hands. Let’s make sure it’s a future we all can love.
Got thoughts on the Muskoka Lakes development? Comment here, join the conversation on our recent instagram posts (you’ll have to be signed in), or email me at len@cottageinmuskoka.ca.
Not much to this post, just something quick to share information. Here you’ll find photos of the field (Five Bridges Path) from March 21, 2024, and the Site Plan Agreement (+ Schedule B).
FYI – I’ve backdated this post to the date the photos were taken.
If you’re interested in contributing to the Muskoka ecosystem but can’t attend a Muskoka Ash Drive (Friends of the Muskoka Watershed), spreading wood ash on your property can be a powerful way to support environmental health and sustainability. This guide will show you how to become a self-starter in replenishing the land and supporting local initiatives from the comfort of your own home.
Key Steps for Safe and Effective Wood Ash Spreading
Ensure Ash is Cold and Dry: Before you start, make sure the wood ash has completely cooled for several days. This precaution is essential to prevent any fire hazards.
Personal Safety Gear is a Must: Protect yourself by wearing gloves, long pants, and a mask. This safety gear will help you avoid any irritation or harm while spreading the ash.
Source of Ash: Use ash from clean, untreated wood only. Avoid ash from pressure-treated lumber, plastics, or any wood that has been exposed to harmful chemicals. This step ensures that you’re contributing positively to the ecosystem without introducing pollutants.
Proper Application: FOTMW has researched the optimal amount of ash for spreading: one 750 ml yogurt container per square meter of forest (or ~the area around one tree). This specific ratio helps to counteract the effects of acid rain by replenishing calcium levels in the soil.
When and Where to Spread Ash: It’s advisable to spread wood ash once to combat 50 years of calcium depletion – that’s all it takes to completely restore calcium to pre-1960s levels. Choose areas away from frequent human and pet traffic, and ensure you’re not near water bodies to prevent ash runoff.
Community Engagement: After contributing to this environmental effort, share your actions with FOTMW. Whether it’s through social media or direct communication, your participation highlights the collective effort to restore Muskoka’s natural beauty. And don’t just stop collecting ash once your property has been restored! Please consider donating to a Muskoka Ash Drive held by Friends of the Muskoka Watershed. The dates for the rest of the year are below:
Saturday, April 20, 2024
Saturday, September 21, 2024
Saturday, October 19, 2024
Saturday November 16, 2024
Muskoka Ash Drives are held from 9:30am to 1pm at 1062 Rosewarne Drive (Rosewarne Transfer Station) in Bracebridge, Ontario.
Benefits for Muskoka’s Ecosystem and Real Estate
By adopting these practices, you’re playing a critical role in fostering a healthier Muskoka ecosystem. The benefits extend beyond forest revitalization; they contribute to mitigating climate change impacts, reducing the risk of seasonal flooding, and enhancing conditions for local wildlife and aquatic life. This initiative reflects the broader community values of environmental stewardship, a principle highly regarded by prospective cottage buyers in Muskoka.
The FOTMW initiative is not just about individual contributions; it’s about mobilizing the community towards a common goal of ecological restoration. By participating, you’re investing in Muskoka’s future, making it an even more attractive location for real estate investments, especially for those who value sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Becoming a self-spreader of wood ash is a simple yet impactful way to contribute to Muskoka’s environmental health. By following these guidelines, you’re taking an active role in a community-wide effort to restore and preserve the natural beauty and ecological balance of Muskoka, enhancing its appeal as a premier destination for eco-conscious real estate investors.
Well… more big news from Minett… a potential new Lake Rosseau concert venue! A field next to the JW Marriott the Rosseau on Lake Rosseau, a space once teeming with wildlife including frogs, deer, and an array of local flora, faces a significant transformation. Recent clear-cutting activities (update – not clear cutting! The low brush has been removed, and the MLA estimates ~20 trees were removed) have stripped a potentially environmentally sensitive area (including a field and two ponds), igniting community concern.
A concert park site plan drawing of the Lake Rosseau concert venue at the JW Marriott the Rosseau on Lake Rosseau.
The Proposed Marriott Rosseau Concert Venue: A Glimpse into the Future
Amidst discussions, an ambitious concert venue concept under the ‘HotelLIVE!’ brand emerges. With concept drawings showcasing a staggering capacity of 20,000, this venue is poised to surpass Toronto’s renowned Budweiser Stage in size. I must make clear that the Township of Muskoka Lakes has not approved this concert venue concept, and as far as I know nothing has been submitted to them. So, proper approvals and permits still stand between concept and reality.
Site plan context of the Lake Rosseau concert venue at the JW Marriott the Rosseau on Lake Rosseau.
Environmental and Community Impacts at the Heart of Concern
This development proposition does not stand in isolation. It is part of a broader narrative of change sweeping through Minett, touching key landmarks like the redeveloping Clevelands House and the new Legacy Cottages development on Wallace Bay on Lake Rosseau – an area with a history of environmental challenges.
This Lake Rosseau concert venue concept, alongside the revitalization of Clevelands House and the burgeoning Legacy Cottages, foreshadows increased traffic through Peninsula Road. Mitch Goldhar, leading the Clevelands House redevelopment, has said he will look at potentially mitigating construction traffic… though there is no guarantee. The anticipated influx from concertgoers and the increasing development in Minett remains a concern. For more information on the plan for Clevelands House, check out the Cleves highlight on my instagram account. You can also check out a final aerial tour of Clevelands House (including some Lake Rosseau ice out shots) on my YouTube here.
Master property layout of the Lake Rosseau concert venue at the JW Marriott the Rosseau on Lake Rosseau.
A Call to Action: Empowering the Community with Information
I will also make an Instagram highlight for the JW Marriott the Rosseau as well if things continue to develop. If I’m able to get my hands on an e-copy of the JW Marriott the Rosseau site plan, I will include that in my newsletter this weekend, which you can sign up for here.
As always, I’m just doing my best to share whatever information I come across to empower our community to be well informed. Let’s advocate for balance between development and preservation in Muskoka Lakes! Your engagement is vital as we navigate these changes together, ensuring that the future of Minett, and Muskoka as a whole, reflects both our hopes for progress and our commitment to the natural beauty that defines our community.
If you have questions or comments, please feel free to join in the conversation on my instagram post about this Lake Rosseau concert venue concept here! Or, you’re welcome to email me at len@cottageinmuskoka.ca.
In the pristine regions of Muskoka, Ontario, a groundbreaking environmental initiative is breathing new life into the forests that drape the landscape via wood ash additions! The local community, with the support of the Friends of the Muskoka Watershed (FOTMW), has embarked on a mission to counteract the effects of acid rain and calcium depletion—a legacy of industrial activity that has left its mark on the environment. This post delves into the transformative power of wood ash, an unassuming byproduct of our cozy firesides, in rejuvenating our forested backyards.
Students from Sir Sandford Fleming spreading wood ash at a Friends of the Muskoka Watershed test site in Bracebridge, ON.
The Calcium Crisis
For decades, Muskoka’s forests have faced a silent threat: the gradual loss of calcium from the soil, a crucial nutrient for tree health and growth. This decline has weakened our trees, consequently making them more susceptible to disease, pests, and extreme weather. It has also impacted the aquatic life in our lakes. Many species now struggle to maintain the calcium levels necessary for their survival.
A Local Solution to a Global Problem:
Enter wood ash—the unexpected hero in this ecological narrative. Rich in calcium and other essential nutrients, wood ash has emerged as a natural, effective remedy for replenishing the calcium-depleted soils of Muskoka.
Friends of the Muskoka Watershed has spearheaded research, in collaboration with Canadian universities, revealing the significant benefits of wood ash application. Treated forests are not just surviving, but thriving! Trees become stronger, more resilient to storms, and better carbon sinks, mitigating the impacts of climate change.
The Benefits of Using Wood Ash in Muskoka
Stronger Trees, Stronger Future:
One of the most remarkable impacts of adding wood ash to our forests is the development of stronger, more resilient trees. Trees fortified with calcium from wood ash are less prone to breakage during storms, reducing the risk of damage to property and loss of forest cover.
This strength is not just a boon for the trees themselves but for the entire ecosystem relying on them. Healthier trees can support a wider range of wildlife, from birds nesting in their branches to the myriad species that call the forest floor home. As these trees grow stronger, they become a living legacy of our commitment to environmental stewardship.
A Breath of Fresh Air – Carbon Capture in Action:
In the face of global climate change, the role of forests as carbon sinks has never been more critical. Trees act as the lungs of the planet, absorbing carbon dioxide during photosynthesis and storing carbon in their wood and soil.
By revitalizing our forests with wood ash, we’re enhancing their capacity to capture and store carbon. This helps mitigate the effects of climate change and contributes to the overall health of our planet. As Muskoka’s trees flourish, they become powerful allies in the fight against climate change!
By using wood ash to enhance soil and tree health, we’re bolstering our natural defenses against increasingly frequent and severe floods. This approach protects our homes, communities, and the natural beauty and biodiversity of Muskoka.
Restoring Balance: Calcium’s Role in Our Watershed:
The benefits of replenishing calcium levels in our forests extend beyond the soil and trees and into our watersheds. Calcium plays a vital role in water health, affecting the life cycles and structural integrity of aquatic life. For example, crayfish and Daphnia plankton rely on calcium to build strong exoskeletons. This makes them crucial indicators of water health.
By restoring calcium to our forests, we inadvertently boost calcium levels in our watershed. This natural restoration supports biodiversity and helps maintain the quality of our water bodies, therefore ensuring they remain a haven for wildlife and the focal point of Muskoka.
The Community’s Role in Spreading Ash in Muskoka:
This initiative’s success lies in its community-driven approach. Many Muskoka residents have actively participated by donating wood ash from their homes. Others have volunteered as “Citizen Scientists”, given training and kits for ash-spreading experiments, enabling wider research and engagement.
The Muskoka community’s collective effort showcases a powerful model of environmental stewardship, where local action sparks significant ecological improvement.
A Path Forward:
The project not only addresses calcium decline, but also opens a dialogue on sustainable living practices. It highlights the potential of simple, locally-sourced solutions in tackling global environmental issues. By turning waste into a resource, Muskoka is helping to set an example for communities worldwide, proving that small changes can have a profound impact on our planet’s health.
This initiative is a testament to what can be achieved when we come together for the greater good of Muskoka. Let’s continue to support and expand this project, which is currently in the midst of collecting enough ash for a first large scale ash addition.
It’s a very exciting one too! It will take place at Harp Lake, an ecologically important lake due to the many years of scientific data available via the Dorset Environmental Science Centre.
Get Involved and Spread the Word about Ash in Muskoka:
The journey to a healthier Muskoka starts with us. Feeling inspired to contribute to the health of our forests and watershed? Please consider donating to a Friends of the Muskoka Watershed Ash Drive. Upcoming dates:
April 20, 2024
September 21, 2024
October 19, 2024
November 16, 2024
All Ash Drives are from 9:30am to 1pm at Rosewarne Transfer Station in Bracebridge, Ontario.
If you can’t make it to an Ash Drive, consider spreading wood ash on your property. To learn more about how you can safely and effectively use wood ash to benefit your local environment, visit our blog post on self-spreading ash at your own properties (Coming Thursday, March 21). Your actions can make a significant difference in our collective effort to restore and protect Muskoka’s natural beauty.
Do you have questions or need guidance on getting started? I’m here to help. Please feel free to reach out to me at len@cottageinmuskoka.ca. Together, we can ensure a greener, more resilient Muskoka for generations to come.
Psst… I am so proud to be able to say that I currently serve as Vice Chair of Friends of the Muskoka Watershed, so please reach out about any of our other projects that pique your interest! Or any questions about Muskoka’s environment in general – if I don’t know the answer, I will definitely find it for you!
Last Look at Clevelands House Resort Before Demolition | Aerial Tour of Muskoka’s Lake Rosseau Gem – Cottage in Muskoka/ Lenore Inniss
Enjoy our latest YouTube video where we pay tribute to Clevelands House on Lake Rosseau, a beloved Muskoka landmark set for demolition. Our exclusive drone footage captures the resort’s charm and the stunning natural beauty of Lake Rosseau, offering a unique farewell to a place many have held dear.
The Beauty of Clevelands House
Explore the scenic wonders and historical charm of Lake Rosseau and Clevelands House Resort through breathtaking aerial footage. You can view and share more aerial footage of Clevelands House Resort and Lake Rosseau on our instagram reel here.
A Final Farewell to a Muskoka Icon
Clevelands House in Minett, Muskoka Lakes was beloved by so many, its demolition marks the end of an era in Muskoka’s storied landscape.
Muskoka Ice Out: a Sign of Spring
Experience the Muskoka Ice Out phenomenon, a herald of spring and a captivating natural event captured in our exclusive footage. We do not anticipate spring floods so far this year, so this phenomenon marks the beginning of boating season!
Preserving Memories: a Legacy at Clevelands House
Reflect on the legacy of Clevelands House Resort and how it has shaped the community and memories of those who visited this iconic site. Check out the comments on our Clevelands House pics here, and join in the conversation!
Just one of the many Clevelands House pics you’ll find on our Instagram page, @cottageinmuskoka.
As we say goodbye to Cleves, we cherish the memories and beauty captured in our exclusive aerial footage. This farewell tour not only commemorates a significant piece of Muskoka’s heritage but also celebrates the natural beauty and community spirit that continue to thrive in the region. Stay connected with us for more Muskoka real estate insights and captivating content from the heart of cottage country.
Excitement is in the air as Muskoka enthusiasts and steamship lovers celebrate the completion of the dry docking process for the iconic Muskoka Steamships, Wenonah II and RMS Segwun. As of November 7th, the large lock at Port Carling has reopened, signaling the triumphant return of these historic vessels to the waters of Lake Muskoka, Lake Rosseau, and Lake Joseph.
RMS Segwun and Wenonah II at the Port Carling Lock, November 6, 2023.
Dry Docking at the Port Carling Locks
The dry docking process, which takes place at the Port Carling Lock, ensures the safety and preservation of the Wenonah II and RMS Segwun. This essential maintenance, mandated by Transport Canada, involved thorough inspections, repairs, and care for every intricate detail of these floating pieces of history. The dry docking process offered a rare opportunity for enthusiasts to witness these majestic vessels out of the water, showcasing the craftsmanship that keeps them afloat.
Reopening of the Port Carling Lock
As of today (November 9th, 2023), the Port Carling large lock, situated on James Bartleman Island, has reopened, welcoming the Muskoka Steamships back to the lakes. This reopening not only marks the successful completion of the dry docking process but also signifies the beginning of a new chapter for these vessels as they embark on another season of journeys through the picturesque Muskoka Lakes.
Celebrating a Tradition of Elegance
The Wenonah II and RMS Segwun, with their rich histories dating back to the late 19th century, continue to be cherished symbols of Muskoka’s elegance and timeless allure. The completion of the dry docking process ensures that their legacy endures, captivating both locals and visitors with the magic of steamship travel.
With the large lock now reopened, Muskoka Steamship enthusiasts can look forward to upcoming cruises and experiences aboard these historic vessels. Whether it’s a leisurely trip on Lake Muskoka, a captivating journey on Lake Rosseau, or an exploration of the serene waters of Lake Joseph, the Muskoka Steamships promise unforgettable moments against the backdrop of Muskoka’s stunning scenery.
RMS Segwun and Wenonah II at the Port Carling Lock, November 6, 2023.
Boater? Here’s What to Expect
The large lock in Port Carling is now once again available for boaters to travel through. It will soon close for the season (date pending), but the small self-serve lock will still be available for boaters to travel through.
As the large lock at Port Carling swings open once again, Muskoka celebrates the successful completion of the dry docking process for the Wenonah II and RMS Segwun. These beloved steamships, meticulously cared for and preserved, are ready to set sail on another season of history and elegance. Join us in welcoming them back to the Muskoka Lakes and creating new memories aboard these timeless vessels. The journey continues, and the legacy of Muskoka Steamships sails on!
Muskoka, Ontario, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, pristine lakes, and a rich history of leisurely exploration. One iconic feature of Muskoka is the Muskoka Steamships, which include the Wenonah II and the RMS Segwun. These vintage vessels have been sailing the Muskoka Lakes for generations, offering a unique and timeless experience for both residents and visitors.
The RMS Segwun dry docked at the large lock in Port Carling, Muskoka Lakes, Ontario. October 19, 2023.
But have you ever wondered why these charming steamships periodically dry dock at the Port Carling lock? In this blog post, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of Muskoka Steamships, their significance, and the essential Transport Canada mandated maintenance and inspection that takes place at this strategic location.
Muskoka Steamships: A Legacy of Elegance
The Wenonah II and RMS Segwun are more than just boats; they are floating pieces of history. The RMS Segwun, for instance, was built in 1887, making it one of the oldest operating steamships in North America. These vessels offer an authentic glimpse into Muskoka’s past and provide an unforgettable experience to those who step aboard.
The Importance of the Port Carling Lock
The RMS Segwun dry docked at the large lock in Port Carling, Muskoka Lakes, Ontario. October 19, 2023.
To ensure the safety and longevity of these cherished vessels, Transport Canada mandates regular maintenance and inspection. The Port Carling lock, located on James Bartleman Island, where Lake Muskoka meets Lake Rosseau and connects to Lake Joseph, stands as the only place that can accommodate their specific needs. This strategic location serves as the indispensable hub for servicing and maintaining the Muskoka Steamships. This process should be completed around November 7th.
This also provides a great opportunity for inspection and maintenance of the large lock!
Port Carling Small Lock – Standing By!
During the ~ month long closure of the large lock, the small self-serve lock is still operational to allow passage between Lake Rosseau and Lake Muskoka.
A Rare Opportunity to Witness the Steamships Out of Water
The dry docking process at the Port Carling lock provides a remarkable and rare opportunity for enthusiasts and curious onlookers to witness these historic steamships out of the water. It’s a chance to see the intricate details of these vessels, which are typically hidden beneath the surface, and gain a deeper appreciation for their craftsmanship.
The mandated maintenance and inspection processes are critical to ensuring the safety and functionality of these historic vessels. They include checks on the steam engines, hull, and other essential components. These activities are conducted with the utmost care and expertise to preserve the charm and reliability of the steamships.
The Muskoka Steamships, Wenonah II and RMS Segwun, are living pieces of history that offer a timeless and elegant experience on the Muskoka Lakes. The Port Carling lock plays a vital role in preserving these iconic vessels by providing the only location that can accommodate their specific needs for Transport Canada mandated maintenance and inspection. As they continue to navigate the beautiful waters of Muskoka, the legacy of the steamships lives on, enchanting new generations with a taste of the past.
The iconic Port Carling Wall, located diagonally across the intersection from the Port Carling Lock.
So, the next time you see the Muskoka Steamships cruising on Lake Muskoka, Lake Rosseau, or Lake Joseph, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for the care and maintenance that keeps these pieces of history afloat. Hopefully you had the chance to see them out of the water during the dry docking process, but if not don’t forget to check out our instagram for a closer look!
Every Wednesday I feature an antique wooden boat I’ve spotted in Muskoka on our Instagram account @cottageinmuskoka. Today’s feature was “The Jeffrey,” a 1939 Greavette rebuilt by Peter Breen in the early 90s after being rescued from a boathouse on Lake Nipissing during the previous decade. The Jeffrey now lives on East Bay in Lake Muskoka.
