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TI Life in February

TI Life in February

When the January edition went online three days after the Haitian earthquake. Immediately, we saw River communities participating in the global collection of assistance funds. One group of islanders went beyond the norm. Grindstone Island’s Mark Purcell, of Watertown’s Purcell Construction Corp. offered to buy, and erect, over 700 shelter tents for Haiti and to deliver same, from Florida,
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in January

TI Life in January

“Slow as molasses in January” – I have heard that expression since I was a child, but somehow this year it seems that Ja...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in December

TI Life in December

How do we pay tribute to our authors for their thousands of words and to Ian Coristine, and many others, for their wonderful photographs? First we thank Paul Malo... then we add Ian's photo of a ship passing under the Thousand Islands Bridge. Stir it all up in the computer and PRESTO - we have 127 articles from 2009.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in November

TI Life in November

Thanksgiving is a wonderful holiday, but there is certainly more than just turkey and pumpkin pie. The day is about givi...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in October

TI Life in October

October, when many of us have left the River and are now beginning our winter projects. Early in September, Judy Well...
by: Susan W. Smith
Put a thousand islands in your life…

Put a thousand islands in your life…

Since joining TI Life in September 2008, I have happily counted (close to 50) the people who have generously donated the...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in August

TI Life in August

This month we introduce our August new contributors, Lynn McElfresh, Douglas Goodfellow and Rachel Cole. We also pay tribute to Tom Schwalm who died suddenly at his home on Wellesley Island in July. The River has lost a good friend.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life On the Water in July

TI Life On the Water in July

When we recorded our 3,000th subscriber, Chris Brock, I wrote to him to say how much we appreciated his interest in "TI Life" and apologized for the lack of a prize as this is a totally-volunteer publication. However, we received a prize from him, a short story - complete with illustrations by Danna Moles!

by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in June

TI Life in June

On June 6th subscriber number 3,000 joined TI Life! This month we introduce Capt. Brian Johnson, Robert S. Miner and William Worden and welcome back Phil Chadwick, Kim Lunman, Michael Whittaker, James Rapport and Ian Coristine.

by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in May

TI Life in May

Trilliums and Beavers are a sure sign of spring. Sagastaweka Island, has thousands of trilliums to welcome us back to the River and at least one industrious beaver. The first I adore, the latter not so much! Actually there are now other worries for islanders to consider and the list is long...
by: Susan W. Smith
April's TI Life and Reader's Exchange

April's TI Life and Reader's Exchange

My husband and I opened Sagastaweka Island on April 3 – cold, rainy, and beautiful. Before opening your cottage I sugges...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in March

TI Life in March

TI Life has a new "Readers' Exchange" where we welcome your short stories of seven-hundred words, or less. Our first sto...
by: Susan W. Smith
Important News for Brockville and the Thousand Islands

Important News for Brockville and the Thousand Islands

A proposed anchor tourism attraction for the Thousand Islands is a huge step closer to opening its doors on Brockville’s...
by: Kim Lunman
Of Time and an Author

Of Time and an Author

Our house is built on a rock in a river. So begins "Of Time and an Island", a love letter to the Thousand Islands penne...
by: Kim Lunman
A New Look? Put a Thousand Islands in Your Life!

A New Look? Put a Thousand Islands in Your Life!

What’s happening? The December issue of our magazine comes to you with a new look!
by: Susan W. Smith
More Than a Salad Dressing and Washington Island

More Than a Salad Dressing and Washington Island

Imagine asking the US residents on Washington Island, in Clayton, NY, to change the island’s name back to its original: ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Eagles in the Islands

Eagles in the Islands

HILL ISLAND - Bud Andress grabs his binoculars and hops on the Jet-Ski at the dock of his St. Lawrence River home to go ...
by: Kim Lunman
“The Summer Cottage: Retreats of the 1000 Islands”

“The Summer Cottage: Retreats of the 1000 Islands”

As the jacket notes describe: "most charming...
by: Susan W. Smith
Grindstone Island: Lost in Time

Grindstone Island: Lost in Time

Listen to the audio version as read by Jan Eliot  Some islands tell a story. Grindstone Island tells many of them....
by: Kim Lunman
Thousand Island Park Revisited

Thousand Island Park Revisited

The island road twists through a series of snake-like turns and suddenly there it is - Thousand Island Park- a bit of Am...
by: Trude Brown Fitelson
The New Frontenac Hotel Flag

The New Frontenac Hotel Flag

Flags abound in the islands. At Grenell Island’s July 2009 regatta, participants were asked to count the flags as they p...
by: Lynn E. McElfresh
Poker Run’s Poker Stakes

Poker Run’s Poker Stakes

Despite the intentions of the Poker Run, it is frequently cited by environmentalists as an example of conspicuous consumption and pollution.
by: James Rappaport
Howard Pyle, Illustrator Extraordinaire

Howard Pyle, Illustrator Extraordinaire

The second in a series on illustrators of the Thousand Islands.
by: Robert L. Matthews
Final chapter in May Dewey’s Diary Part XII

Final chapter in May Dewey’s Diary Part XII

Part XII and final chapter of Kristen Pinkney's research
by: Kristen Pinkney
Photographs and more by Hope Marshall

Photographs and more by Hope Marshall

The early morning mist drapes...
by: Susan W. Smith
“Arctic Goose”

“Arctic Goose”

When the St. Lawrence River freezes over, one mode of transportation is by “ice boat” or “air boat”, as they are called ...
by: Rex Ennis
2nd Annual The Glass River: A Winter Photography Exhibition

2nd Annual The Glass River: A Winter Photography Exhibition

In its second year and with over sixty entries the current winter exhibition at the Arts Center is a showcase of photos ...
by: Rebecca Hopfinger
Nancy L. Gustke’s “The Special Artist”

Nancy L. Gustke’s “The Special Artist”

“It is amazing how there are so many Taylor drawings which have been printed and reprinted over the past century – yet so little is known about the man. “
by: Susan W. Smith
The Man from Shady Ledge

The Man from Shady Ledge

Note:  See the complementary Article about Frank H. Taylor in this issue: Nancy L. Gustke’s “The Special Artis...
by: Robert L. Matthews
A Walk on the Thousand Islands Wild Side

A Walk on the Thousand Islands Wild Side

Anyone who has spent any time in the Thousand Islands becomes accustomed to its creatures... NEW: Audio by Jan Eliot
by: Kim Lunman
From Cottage to Castle

From Cottage to Castle

It wasn’t used and it took up too much space. Yet, chopping it up with an ax and burning it was not an option.
by: Lynn E. McElfresh
2009 Seaway Season Recap

2009 Seaway Season Recap

...the season would go in the books as one of the worst since the early 1960s in terms of tonnage. The 25% decrease in cargo volume ...
by: Michael Folsom
A Winter Islander Returns. . .

A Winter Islander Returns. . .

It isn't easy When I first thought of over-wintering, I thought of all the free time to do just as I pleased. Perhaps a ...
by: Richard L. Withington
May Dewey’s Diary, Part XI, July 1889

May Dewey’s Diary, Part XI, July 1889

Well today is the fourth of July. I have had a delightful day.
by: Kristen Pinkney
National Geographic Presents Award

National Geographic Presents Award

Consistent with our mission of raising the bar, Thousand Island Life seeks to recognize special tributes.
by: Susan W. Smith
The River as a Way of Life

The River as a Way of Life

Pilots, by the very nature of their profession, become experts of the waters in their district. They are the logical adv...
by: Brian Johnson
Capitalists, a Socialist, and the Thousand Islands

Capitalists, a Socialist, and the Thousand Islands

The capitalists, the builders of our country, made the Thousand Islands their playground in what we call today the “Gold...
by: Rex Ennis
From Summer Docks To The Captain’s Spot

From Summer Docks To The Captain’s Spot

Seasons of change can be felt in many ways. Summer heat and rain changes to cool fall days with blowing leaves and the b...
by: Michael Folsom
Summer In December: Islands for All Seasons

Summer In December: Islands for All Seasons

As snow falls over the River against a backdrop of a chalk white sky, I can't help but think of summer in the Thousand I...
by: Kim Lunman
Greg Lago and his Winged Bull Studio

Greg Lago and his Winged Bull Studio

Greg Lago welcomes winter. Everyday, snowy or not, Lago makes his way to his studio on James Street “The good thing abou...
by: Lynn E. McElfresh
Captain Davis Recalls the Ships

Captain Davis Recalls the Ships

Captain Leath Davis can trace his Wolfe Island roots to the pioneer Hitchcock family who obtained a charter to start a ferry service to Kingston from Wolfe Island.
by: Brian Johnson
Tremont Island History Comes Alive

Tremont Island History Comes Alive

"Tidd’s Island: a History of its People and Their Stories" was published in July of 2009
by: Susan W. Smith
May Dewey’s Diary, Part X, June 1889

May Dewey’s Diary, Part X, June 1889

Last night we had a delightful serenade. I wonder who it was. He passed the Island five times singing...
by: Kristen Pinkney
The Case for Moose

The Case for Moose

Like so many inhabitants of the northern regions, the moose is one that when spotted, is a sight to behold.
by: James Rappaport
Photographs by Andy King

Photographs by Andy King

Last year we discovered the photography of Andrew B King, (January 2009) who lives on Black Duck Island (Admiralty Islan...
by: Andrew B. King
Floating History for Sale

Floating History for Sale

It looks like it could be the end of an era for the last antique wooden tour boat in the Thousand Islands. The Morrisani...
by: Kim Lunman
The Sinister Side

The Sinister Side

However, once the sun has set, the St. Lawrence River has, amidst all its beauty, a very dark underbelly that continues to this day.
by: James Rappaport
First Summer Cottage on Grenell

First Summer Cottage on Grenell

By the time I first arrived on Grenell Island in 1975, my husband’s family had already been on the Point, for nearly a h...
by: Lynn E. McElfresh
Full TILT Ahead

Full TILT Ahead

After close to a year spent collecting information, answering questions, copying documents...
by: Susie Wood
May Dewey’s Diary, Part IX, April & May 1889

May Dewey’s Diary, Part IX, April & May 1889

It is so beautiful here now nice and pleasant just like
by: Kristen Pinkney
The Great Gale of ‘75

The Great Gale of ‘75

“I am very concerned with the welfare of the steamer Edmund Fitzgerald."[New feature,now available in an audio version, written by Brian Johnson, Wolfe Island; read by Jan Eliot]
by: Brian Johnson
Jennifer J. Brundage “I Love That Place”

Jennifer J. Brundage “I Love That Place”

I love that place. The way that the dock can stretch for miles upon miles Until you reach the white capped river crashin...
by: Jennifer Brundage
Junk Day

Junk Day

Nobody seemed to know whose idea it was to have a junk day in River Valley, but when people saw the small ad in the Week...
by: Chris Brock
Wolfe Island’s Lighthouses

Wolfe Island’s Lighthouses

The first Wolfe Island lighthouse was built on the eastern end of the island in 1861...
by: Mary Alice Snetsinger
John Carter’s Prisoners in Van Diemen’s Land

John Carter’s Prisoners in Van Diemen’s Land

Tasmania seems like a distant land but for John Carter, Tasmania is a treasure trunk waiting to be opened...
by: Susan W. Smith
Broomstick Castle in Fairyland

Broomstick Castle in Fairyland

Storybook bridges. Broomstick Castle. An historic boathouse and an idyllic summer retreat called The Folly. This is Fair...
by: Kim Lunman
Castle Rest, Its story

Castle Rest, Its story

The Pullmans were the first of the islanders to arrive by private railroad car -a sumptuous conveyance, as might be expected of the railroad car builder.
by: Paul Malo
Hooked on Prudence

Hooked on Prudence

Nobody likes Jury Duty, but for Prudence Matthews, in 1992, it was life-changing. “I knew we could not talk about the t...
by: Susan W. Smith
Summer Eco-Tours

Summer Eco-Tours

The greatest way to experience the Thousand Islands is from the water. Each hidden channel, quiet cove, and marshy bay holds little secrets
by: Star Carter
May Dewey’s Diary, Part VIII, March 1889

May Dewey’s Diary, Part VIII, March 1889

Saw Pansy this am. Took a walk and talked over the affair last night. Did not have our hats on.
by: Kristen Pinkney
Wedding Flowers

Wedding Flowers

Janet was five, when her parents bought the cottage on Grenell Island, and it's where she spent her summers. She became ...
by: Lynn E. McElfresh
Paul’s Legacy, Judy’s Gift, TI Gold

Paul’s Legacy, Judy’s Gift, TI Gold

Finding a particular photograph, identifying an individual or an historic fact is like finding “gold” to a researcher. ...
by: Susan W. Smith
A Muskie Jake Tribute

A Muskie Jake Tribute

For 66 years the legendary “Muskie” Jake Huntley led guests of The Gananoque Inn and Spa on their quest for the illusive muskellunge.
by: John Keilty
Silent Rapids of Long Sault

Silent Rapids of Long Sault

“Warning:  Owners of large and medium sized craft, who navigate the St. Lawrence River between Cornwall and Prescot...
by: Brian Johnson
Howe Island Vines

Howe Island Vines

The Ontario landscape has long been known for its ideal geographical location for growing grapes. However, to many of us...
by: James Rappaport
Readers Exchange - Shipwrecked on Calumet

Readers Exchange - Shipwrecked on Calumet

I stepped out onto the grass on a dull gray July morning. Before me, I could see the great St. Lawrence River. The waves...
by: Jeff Streets
An Island Ghost Hunt

An Island Ghost Hunt

In 1984 there were three famous men best known for fighting evil spirits which had taken New York City by storm. They to...
by: Michael Folsom
D. F. Baker Photography

D. F. Baker Photography

D.F. (Dani) Baker and her partner, David Belding, are the owners of  "Cross Island Farms" - one of the region's bes...
by: Susan W. Smith
One Tenth of One Acre

One Tenth of One Acre

In November 1901, Richard Standish Williamson acquired an island in the St. Lawrence River.  Standish, born in 1877...
by: Beth White
Island Nuptials…

Island Nuptials…

When my husband proposed to me back in 1974, he asked if I would consider getting married on the island. At that point i...
by: Lynn E. McElfresh
Lost Villages, Inundation Day

Lost Villages, Inundation Day

Mary Lynn Johnston was a Mille Roches girl She had an important chore, while her Mother ran a rooming house And her ...
by: Brian Johnson
May Dewey’s Diary, Part VII February 1889

May Dewey’s Diary, Part VII February 1889

He wants me to think of him at twelve o’clock and
by: Kristen Pinkney
Mrs. Simcoe’s Chapel, Drawings & Diary

Mrs. Simcoe’s Chapel, Drawings & Diary

In 1988 I went to England to carry out research at the National Maritime Archives in Greenwich and the
by: Susan W. Smith
New Neighbors

New Neighbors

Change is constant in our world, and certainly in our region. While the focus in the Thousand Islands, more often than n...
by: James Rappaport
Great Lakes Swimmers “get it”

Great Lakes Swimmers “get it”

A scene from a new Hollywood pirate movie? This spectacular setting on the St. Lawrence River is the backdrop for Toronto folk band Great Lake Swimmers newest music video.

by: Kim Lunman
Lost Villages

Lost Villages

Down at Zina’s Barber Shop we used to laugh and sing; We’d gather and we’d gossip about everything; we’d talk about the ...
by: Brian Johnson
Lost Villages, Another Perspective

Lost Villages, Another Perspective

Painted over 40 years before, it is the center line of what once was a two lane highway which ran along the shore of a very different River.
by: Ian Coristine
A Fraternity of River Rats – the Admirals

A Fraternity of River Rats – the Admirals

Jerry Huck is at the wheel of his Boston Whaler heading west out of his native Rockport on the St. Lawrence River toward...
by: Kim Lunman
The Goby and the Bass

The Goby and the Bass

After mowing the lawn in front of the camp, I took out my snorkeling mask last weekend to cool off and check out the riv...
by: James Rappaport
Stamps on Murray Isle

Stamps on Murray Isle

We're not talking "Pony Express", but about a more-personalized mail service than most receive today, a service that is cherished and greatly appreciated.
by: Rachel Cole
What’s in a Name?

What’s in a Name?

What’s one of the very first things you think of after purchasing a new boat? Perhaps you think to yourself, what will I...
by: Michael Folsom
J. Cervini Rector, Grenell’s Resident Artist

J. Cervini Rector, Grenell’s Resident Artist

Spring of 2007, we returned to Grenell Island to find a display of breath-taking paintings in the Grenell Island Communi...
by: Lynn E. McElfresh
K.I.S.S.R - Keep It Simple Sailing Regatta

K.I.S.S.R - Keep It Simple Sailing Regatta

Saturday August 1st, proved to be a perfect day on the St. Lawrence River in the Admiralty Islands for the first Annual ...
by: Douglas Goodfellow
Thousand Islands Postcards

Thousand Islands Postcards

Lynn Beahm, at Arcadia Publishing, sent us several photos of postcards and a description of Arcadia’s recent:  Post...
by: Susan W. Smith
Up Close by Kayak

Up Close by Kayak

One of the best ways to see a spectacular string of islands known as the Admiralty Group in the St. Lawrence River is up...
by: Kim Lunman
A Wolfe Island Christmas Story

A Wolfe Island Christmas Story

“No one panicked while they were floundering in the water and scrambling for firm ice. Mothers held their children aloft...
by: Brian Johnson
“Those Carp People”

“Those Carp People”

It was a good day of fishing on the St. Lawrence River for Floyd Pickerton.  So good, he figured he’d buy everybody...
by: Chris Brock
Kathy Kempson’s Seasons

Kathy Kempson’s Seasons

Random thoughts and photographs about our not so random seasons. If you are reading this, chances are you have visited...
by: Kathy Kempson
What does being a boater mean to you?

What does being a boater mean to you?

As with surgery, I will never know all there is to know about boating. Moving from being a recreational boater to a mariner is similar.
by: Richard L. Withington
Seaway’s Birthday Party

Seaway’s Birthday Party

There was no cake with candles, no singing around the table to the birthday child and no gifts wrapped in multi-colored ...
by: Michael Folsom
TIA Invites you to Breakfast

TIA Invites you to Breakfast

The Thousand Islands Association (TIA) will be holding their annual general meeting on July 25 at the Thousand Islands P...
by: Patricia Tague
"Meetups" in the Islands?

"Meetups" in the Islands?

A note from a young Grindstone Island summer resident was brought to my attention a couple of weeks ago, citing a need f...
by: James Rappaport
Exhibit in the Making – Alson S. Clark

Exhibit in the Making – Alson S. Clark

It was a cold and rainy day on June 1st – but the invitation to meet Mike Franklin, Patricia Tague and Rhea Jenkner and ...
by: Susan W. Smith
The Wolfe Islander is Missing

The Wolfe Islander is Missing

…after four hours of continuous searching bleak coves and small inlets, both groups were almost ready to announce that t...
by: Brian Johnson
Niagara to the Sea

Niagara to the Sea

For over sixty years, “Niagara to the Sea” was one of the most famous travel slogans in North America. The phrase was or...
by: William M. Worden
Navigating Lost Channels

Navigating Lost Channels

Great Lake Swimmers Back in River Tony Dekker, the lead musician of the Great Lake Swimmers, rests his hand on the helm...
by: Kim Lunman
Balboa - a Century of History

Balboa - a Century of History

My family was fortunate to call the Balboa our summer home in the Thousand Islands from 1955 to 2008 and it has served...
by: Robert S. Miner
Thousand Islands Weather...

Thousand Islands Weather...

About 10,000 thunderstorms occur in Ontario during a typical summer and only about 1% of these are "severe"
by: Phil Chadwick
Crooked Creek May Morning

Crooked Creek May Morning

The morning trip through Crooked Creek follows a route that brings a myriad of contemplations as well as a collage of co...
by: James Rappaport
1760 "Battle of the Thousand Islands"

1760 "Battle of the Thousand Islands"

What went down in history as the Battle of the Thousand Islands ended when the French and Canadian defenders struck thei...
by: Michael Whittaker
Saying Goodbye to the River

Saying Goodbye to the River

Dudley Danielson is a man who has done just about everything in life, working as a (talented) professional photographer...
by: Ian Coristine
Masts Motors & Music

Masts Motors & Music

Great Lake Swimmers are coming June 6th! Celebrating the Maritime Discovery Center of the Thousand Islands. Eighteen m...
by: Ian Coristine
Wolfe Island Wind Turbines

Wolfe Island Wind Turbines

    The following was received in mid-April: Dear Susan, ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Film Pays Tribute to the Wreck of the J.B. King

Film Pays Tribute to the Wreck of the J.B. King

A  documentary that takes viewers beneath the St. Lawrence River to a wreck at the bottom the Brockville Narrows is...
by: Kim Lunman
John A. Morrow, Artist

John A. Morrow, Artist

"The World is a wondrous place, rich with texture, color and form, where the magic of light creates an ever changing sta...
by: Susan W. Smith
Border Crossings

Border Crossings

One of the unique elements in the Thousand Islands region is our ability to travel between our two countries with relati...
by: James Rappaport
Time Stops on Watch Island

Time Stops on Watch Island

April's TI Life listed Watch Island on the "Properties" page where we post important properties of the region that are f...
by: Mike Franklin
Shipping Muse: A River Hobby

Shipping Muse: A River Hobby

  I was once spotted by innocent onlookers who crowned me to be the "crazy guy in a little boat with a big flag," i...
by: Michael Folsom
Island Names, Updated May 2009

Island Names, Updated May 2009

As the new season begins on the River, I’m pleased to offer this Sixth online edition of POLLACK’S GAZETTEER OF THE THOU...
by: Ross D. Pollack
Peacock Yacht House, Part II

Peacock Yacht House, Part II

The Peacock Yacht House succumbed to a fire in early 1990’s leaving only the
by: Rick Tague
The Tallest Cathedral...

The Tallest Cathedral...

The tradition of worship in Half Moon Bay began in 1887.  People came from neighbouring islands and from Gananoque ...
by: Carolyn Pratt
Grindstone’s Missing State Park

Grindstone’s Missing State Park

In August of 1897, at a meeting of the New York State Fisheries, Game and Forest Commission in Albany a discussion was h...
by: Rex Ennis
May Dewey's Diary, Part VI, January 1889

May Dewey's Diary, Part VI, January 1889

"Mr. Grey is a beautiful dancer. It is like a dream dancing with him. I wish I knew him better." May Dewey, January 21, ...
by: Kristen Pinkney
Swami Vivekananda

Swami Vivekananda

Spending the month of August every summer of my youth at my Grandmother's cottage in Thousand Island Park was a child's ...
by: Trude Brown Fitelson
"Lakeland Boating's" Tribute to the Islands

"Lakeland Boating's" Tribute to the Islands

In March we announced that Ian Coristine's photographs were featured in the March
by: Susan W. Smith
May Irwin and her Keeper

May Irwin and her Keeper

It started out innocently enough with a cookbook. Then came the song sheets
by: Kim Lunman
Artist: Phil Chadwick

Artist: Phil Chadwick

  This month we welcome Phil Chadwick, aka "Phil the Forecaster", to TI Life, as an artist. Although he trained at ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Seaway's 50th Anniversary - a Celebration or Not?

Seaway's 50th Anniversary - a Celebration or Not?

The year was 1959. The Barbie doll debuted;
by: Michael Folsom
May Dewey's Diary, Part V, December 1888

May Dewey's Diary, Part V, December 1888

"I was furious & will tell him what I think of him when we meet again." May Dewey, December 31, 1888.
by: Kristen Pinkney
A Trickling Stream of History

A Trickling Stream of History

The first time we saw the Inn was in spring, on a day bursting with the promise of a fresh season. The grass was almost ...
by: Susanne Richter
Keep Grindstone on the Left

Keep Grindstone on the Left

Editor's Note:  This month we received two short stories written by friends who paddle together in the summer. Both...
by: Kathy Kempson and Peggy Hart
Who Won the War?

Who Won the War?

Whoever controlled the St. Lawrence River controlled Canada. The Americans never cut the lifeline of British supplies during the War of 1812...
by: Michael Whittaker
Music & Art in Clayton

Music & Art in Clayton

July 17th will be a special day in Clayton. Two regional arts organizations,
by: Susan W. Smith
A Spring Islander

A Spring Islander

In January the River took its leave, pulled a thick white blanket over itself, and rested. Freed from the turmoil of thr...
by: Richard L. Withington
An Historic Treasure: Comfort Island

An Historic Treasure: Comfort Island

Comfort Island is for sale. . .  When Paul Malo created Thousand Islands Life in 2006, he created a Properties page...
by: Susan W. Smith
The Peacock Yacht House

The Peacock Yacht House

Growing up in the Thousand Islands the old homes and
by: Rick Tague
River-Lations: A Music Video

River-Lations: A Music Video

Patricia and Robert Mondore received good news this
by: Susan W. Smith
Training On Ice

Training On Ice

Ice on the mighty St. Lawrence is beginning to thaw, but as light snow fell on the morning of February 22, nearly thirty...
by: Michael Folsom
Danger On Ice

Danger On Ice

We were going to contact you about going airboating with us, but we had a small mishap a few weeks ago.
by: Michelle Argersinger
Honey Bee Island's Magic

Honey Bee Island's Magic

It can be said every island has its magic. But not every island has its own magician. Honey Bee Island is the summer ho...
by: Kim Lunman
Research at Governor's Island

Research at Governor's Island

The Thousand Islands Biological Station (TIBS) is located on Governor's Island, near Clayton, NY, and is an important re...
by: John Farrell, PhD
The Glass River: A Winter Photography Exhibition

The Glass River: A Winter Photography Exhibition

The images below were part of a first-time exhibition titled "The Glass River"
by: Rebecca Hopfinger
Skates, Hockey Sticks and a Puck

Skates, Hockey Sticks and a Puck

I have absolutely no doubt this scene was played out on countless waterways and lakes in the area. The fact that it took...
by: Steve Hornsby
Reporting Trouble on the River

Reporting Trouble on the River

Have you ever wanted to help the River, but you were not quite sure what to do?  Save The River, an environmental o...
by: Sarah Walsh
Geronimo's Remains in the Thousand Islands?

Geronimo's Remains in the Thousand Islands?

Are the remains of Geronimo in the Thousand Islands? The legendary Apache Chief died
by: Rex Ennis
May Dewey's Diary, Part IV October and November 1888

May Dewey's Diary, Part IV October and November 1888

"Well the Pullmans have all left & we are here all alone in our glory.
by: Kristen Pinkney
Snowsqualls and Other Joys

Snowsqualls and Other Joys

In January, Phil Chadwick read Dr. Richard Withington's "A Winter Islander" story and offered to write about the weather...
by: Phil Chadwick
Time On Tug Was No Breeze

Time On Tug Was No Breeze

  Some sleep in queen-sized beds on luxury yachts, some sleep under the Thousand Islands sky in a sleeping bag, but...
by: Michael Folsom
Photographs in the Lake Fleet

Photographs in the Lake Fleet

For the formative years of my career I shot news and documentary programming on 16mm film and later tape. It was the bes...
by: Doug McLellan
The MacNair Forty-Acre Muskie

The MacNair Forty-Acre Muskie

A “Monster” muskie was caught in the Thousand Islands on November 28th by Ottawa resident Dale MacNair who was with his ...
by: David Ray & Susan W. Smith
King of the Empress

King of the Empress

PRESCOTT: The Canadian Empress is about to set sail from the Fort Town to its next port of call - Brockville - with passengers from all over North America
by: Kim Lunman
Winter Island living - "How do you do it?"

Winter Island living - "How do you do it?"

In listening to the Inauguration, I was struck by our new President's call for individual responsibility. As I thought a...
by: Richard L. Withington
Preserving the Thousand Islands

Preserving the Thousand Islands

Have you seen the terns circling over their nests on the Eagle Wing Shoals? When was the last time you walked the Macshe...
by: David Ray & Susan W. Smith
May Dewey's Diary, Part III September 1888

May Dewey's Diary, Part III September 1888

"Ella & I did nothing much today. Edgewood has closed & everything is on the decline. I received a letter from L...
by: Kristen Pinkney
February's TI Life

February's TI Life

The January issue was sent in the late evening and by morning my mailbox received comments, questions and offers to contribute. That was great!
by: Susan W. Smith
Spring into the Boating Season

Spring into the Boating Season

February, the dead of winter, and here we are thinking spring. We asked Roland Pootmans and his wife, Danielle, if they ...
by: Roland Pootmans
More Than a Salad Dressing & an Author of Astronomy

More Than a Salad Dressing & an Author of Astronomy

Kim Lunman wrote about John Keats in our January issue (Of Time and an Author) and we all appreciate the Trilogy written...
by: Susan W. Smith
2008 Seaway Season Recap

2008 Seaway Season Recap

Snow has covered summer cottage roofs, boats have been shrink wrapped and placed in marina parking lots and ice is formi...
by: Michael Folsom
St. Lawrence Red

St. Lawrence Red

When I envisioned a visit to the Thousand Islands Winery, I imagined the grandeur of Boldt Castle, the upscale atmosphere that typifies the Saint Lawrence River experience. I expected a graying gentleman
by: Ashley Brenon
Photography by Andy King

Photography by Andy King

Andy King spends most of the summer on Black Duck Island in the Admiralty Islands.  We say "most" because Andy also...
by: Susan W. Smith
Part II - May Dewey's Diary

Part II - May Dewey's Diary

This is the first day of a new month. We all have been hanging around ...
by: Kristen Pinkney
Rock Island Lighthouse: A Story of Discovery

Rock Island Lighthouse: A Story of Discovery

When I was 10 years old, my mother sat me down at her parent’s porch table and showed me her grandmother’s notes written...
by: Mark A. Wentling
Black Duck Cottage Family History

Black Duck Cottage Family History

In November we received a note from Marnie Ross, a member of the Canadian Thousand Islands Watershed Land Trust, “Would ...
by: Jean King
More than a Salad Dressing & the Golden Apple Fire

More than a Salad Dressing & the Golden Apple Fire

Each month I seek links to the Islands which highlight the area's history and activities, to emphasize why the Islands s...
by: Susan W. Smith
A Winter Islander

A Winter Islander

So you think you're a dedicated Thousand Islander? Dr. Dick Withington (also known as Doc) is enjoying his fourth consec...
by: Richard L. Withington
January Contributors

January Contributors

Put a thousand islands in your life... This, our second month of a new look, is an exciting one. Certainly all the pers...
by: Susan W. Smith
Grenadier Island and its Unofficial Mayor

Grenadier Island and its Unofficial Mayor

GRENADIER ISLAND: June Hodge was born in a houseboat on the St. Lawrence River.
by: Kim Lunman
Clayton's Historic Island Hotels

Clayton's Historic Island Hotels

Rexford M. Ennis is the author of several dissertations on Thousand Islands history; often presented to an appreciative ...
by: Rex Ennis
A Memorial Tribute to Aaron Vogel

A Memorial Tribute to Aaron Vogel

It is with great sadness that we report that Aaron Vogel, Executive Director of the Thousand Islands Land Trust, died su...
by: Susan W. Smith
Island Names Updated, December 2008

Island Names Updated, December 2008

This is the fifth online edition of “Pollack’s Gazetteer of the Thousand Islands of the United States and Canada in the ...
by: Ross D. Pollack
More than a Salad Dressing and “See’s Famous Old Time Candies”

More than a Salad Dressing and “See’s Famous Old Time Candies”

It is almost Christmas and I am about to buy several boxes of candy to give as presents. Of course I know all about See’...
by: Susan W. Smith
Contributors in December

Contributors in December

Kristen Pinkney We are pleased to present Part I of a series to publish a diary, researched and transcribed by Kristen ...
by: Susan W. Smith
From the Editor, Susan W. Smith

From the Editor, Susan W. Smith

  This month we cover three special places in the Thousand Islands – Brockville, Clayton and the region itself – t...
by: Susan W. Smith
Brockville's Waterfront

Brockville's Waterfront

"Brockville’s Waterfront" first appeared in the Brockville Recorder and Times on August 30, 2008 and subsequently was pu...
by: Kim Lunman
Life at the Crossroads - The Frontenac Arch

Life at the Crossroads - The Frontenac Arch

HILL ISLAND - To many, the Canadian Shield is the quintessential Canadian landscape—the rugged “north”, ...
by: Don Ross
Clayton: a Boating World

Clayton: a Boating World

There can be no disputing Clayton is the boating capital of the Thousand Islands both on land and in the water. This small U.S. town on the St. Lawrence River has been transformed ...
by: Kim Lunman
The Mystery of the Thousand Islands Dressing

The Mystery of the Thousand Islands Dressing

CLAYTON, NY The salad dressing that put this place on the map might have a slight geography Challenge.
by: Kim Lunman
Readers' Exchange, November 2008

Readers' Exchange, November 2008

Hello,  Thank you for the great content you give us on Thousand Islands Life. The photos make you feel like you ar...
by: Susan W. Smith
Brock’s Islands

Brock’s Islands

Many of the officers who fought in the British campaigns during the War of 1812 are commemorated in the Brock Islands. W...
by: Susan W. Smith
From the Editor, October 2008

From the Editor, October 2008

October is a hectic month for Islanders and those who summer in the Thousand Islands, for it is often synonymous with cl...
by: Susan W. Smith
Great Lake Swimmers

Great Lake Swimmers

  ROCKPORT - A Toronto band is using the Thousand Islands as a backdrop for its fourth album, recording in some of...
by: Kim Lunman
Historic Island Names

Historic Island Names

It is exasperating' said Capt. William FitzWilliam
by: Susan W. Smith
More than a Salad Dressing and the 1st Duke of Wellington

More than a Salad Dressing and the 1st Duke of Wellington

Throughout the winter, I will provide a number of links to demonstrate how our region of the mighty St. Lawrence River s...
by: Susan W. Smith
Queen of the Castle on Dark Island

Queen of the Castle on Dark Island

DARK ISLAND N.Y. It's hard to know what to pack when you're going to spend the night in the Royal Suite of a castle as ...
by: Kim Lunman
King of the Castle on Dark Island

King of the Castle on Dark Island

DARK ISLAND N.Y.: Scott Garris gets to be king for a night almost every night of the year at Singer Castle. The 46-year...
by: Kim Lunman
Paul Malo Remembered

Paul Malo Remembered

  "Malo's gifts were, as his students, many. But his legacy lives on in his lessons about this special place he so ...
by: Kim Lunman
T.I. Park: A Step Back In Time

T.I. Park: A Step Back In Time

Beginning on Saturday, July 5, 2008 and appearing every Saturday through Labour Day Weekend, Kim Lunman's series entitle...
by: Kim Lunman
Viva Hoffmann: A Thousand Islands Painter

Viva Hoffmann: A Thousand Islands Painter

  A special thank you to Judy Wellman, Paul Malo's dear wife and special partner in life. Judy found this articl...
by: Paul Malo
Historic Hart House Inn

Historic Hart House Inn

When Paul Malo created Thousand Islands Life, the magazine, in 2005, he did so with a hope that much of the "past" would...
by: Susan W. Smith
Tribute to Hal McCarney

Tribute to Hal McCarney

  The Thousand Islands' fine friend, Hal McCarney died on September 16th in Kingston General Hospital. He was 81. ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Ghost of a gilded age: Carleton Island's Wyckoff Villa

Ghost of a gilded age: Carleton Island's Wyckoff Villa

  CARLETON ISLAND This is the second story in a series written by staff reporter, Kim Lunman, for the Brockville...
by: Kim Lunman
Thousand Islands Life introduces Susan W. Smith as Editor

Thousand Islands Life introduces Susan W. Smith as Editor

A compliment, for sure by Susan W. Smith One day a few weeks ago, I met Ian Coristine and Mike Franklin to discuss the ...
by: Susan W. Smith
A Trip to Kingston's Rosemount Inn & Spa

A Trip to Kingston's Rosemount Inn & Spa

Feature story and photographs by Mike Franklin I recently discovered the Rosemount Inn & Spa in Kingston and the ar...
by: Mike Franklin
Remembering Paul Malo: "Mr. Thousand Islands"

Remembering Paul Malo: "Mr. Thousand Islands"

A memorial service will be held Saturday Oct. 11 at Hendricks Chapel at Syracuse University for Paul Malo, architect, pr...
by: Kim Lunman
More than a Salad Dressing and George Washington

More than a Salad Dressing and George Washington

More than a Salad Dressing… Years ago, I met a young medical student and I was telling her about my favourite vacation r...
by: Susan W. Smith
Island Names Updated, September 2008

Island Names Updated, September 2008

Dedication: This fourth online edition and all subsequent editions of “Pollack’s Gazetteer of the Thousand Islands of th...
by: Ross D. Pollack
August Tributes to Paul Malo

August Tributes to Paul Malo

The August issue of Thousand Island Life Magazine was dedicated to the memory of Paul Malo.     The magazine ...
by: Susan W. Smith
A tribute to Paul in Brockville's The Recorder & Times

A tribute to Paul in Brockville's The Recorder & Times

The Thousand Islands has lost one its most influential voices. Paul Malo, architect, author and advocate for this magi...
by: Kim Lunman
River-Lations - Mr. Thousand Islands

River-Lations - Mr. Thousand Islands

The River community lost a very special member of our community a few weeks ago.  On July 22nd, author and beloved...
by: Patty Mondore
Thousand Islands Life Future

Thousand Islands Life Future

As was his way, Paul generously shared credit for this online publication with Mike Franklin and myself but the reality ...
by: Ian Coristine
"The Camp"

"The Camp"

This article, written by Paul Malo, was originally posted in the old format of TI Life as part of the series Grand River...
by: Paul Malo
Fishing Trophy Photographs

Fishing Trophy Photographs

Nevada and Steele Williams, who landed the black bass at Millens Bay in August, 2007
by: Mike Franklin
A Grater House

A Grater House

This article, written by Paul Malo, was originally posted in the old format of TI Life as part of the series Grand River...
by: Paul Malo
Hub Island's "Miss Lady Slipper"

Hub Island's "Miss Lady Slipper"

Hub Island house, built by Steve Taylor from Wellesley Island.  Originally posted in the old format of TI Life as p...
by: Paul Malo
Best Foot Forward Award

Best Foot Forward Award

Consistent with our mission of raising the bar, Thousand Island Life seeks to recognize exceptional quality. Thousand...
by: Paul Malo
Len Rusin, Wildlife Painter

Len Rusin, Wildlife Painter

Len Rusin is familiar to many viewers since he was the 2006 featured Artist at the Clayton Decoy and Wildlife Art Sho...
by: Paul Malo
Fairview Manor

Fairview Manor

Above Clayton, about the year 1937, Fairview Manor was constructed of boulders, sometimes said to be “Adirondack river s...
by: Paul Malo
Nelfred

Nelfred

The last large summer home appeared on “millionaire’s row” prior 1913 (although by one account that property was not acq...
by: Paul Malo
Minding the Store (Editorial)

Minding the Store (Editorial)

Minding the Store: The Anglers Association, the unofficial key development agency of the 1880s. The Anglers Associati...
by: Paul Malo
Architecture: Ontario/NewYork

Architecture: Ontario/NewYork

Why does the Ontario countryside look so different from that of upstate New York, across the river?  It is largely ...
by: Paul Malo
Photographs by Ian McAcadie

Photographs by Ian McAcadie

"I am quite honored and thank you in advance for the opportunity to submit so many to the magazine, I enjoy reading thro...
by: Paul Malo
Custodian of Character: Trude Brown Fitelson

Custodian of Character: Trude Brown Fitelson

As this issue of Thousand Islands Life appears, the Preservation League of New York State honors Trude Brown Fitelson at...
by: Paul Malo
Joseph and Molly Brant, compiled by Paul Malo

Joseph and Molly Brant, compiled by Paul Malo

Thayendanegea’s father, a prominent warrior, died
by: Paul Malo
Photography, Recent work of Dudley Danielson

Photography, Recent work of Dudley Danielson

“It is as clear in my mind as this morning's newspaper headline: I had just turned ten and for my birthday that year, Ap...
by: Paul Malo
Perfecting a Place: Improving Thousand Island Park

Perfecting a Place: Improving Thousand Island Park

Towards the end of the twentieth century, Thousand Island Park was not the place that is now, when the twenty-first cent...
by: Paul Malo
Jan Brabant's Kayaking Photographs

Jan Brabant's Kayaking Photographs

For the intrepid, the river is a place for all seasons. Several photographs shared by Jan Brabant recall an early April ...
by: Paul Malo
Bill Hecht Photographs, April 2008

Bill Hecht Photographs, April 2008

  Aerial photography by Bill Hecht.  Complied by Paul Malo, April 2008  
by: Paul Malo
Rediscovering Fort Haldimand, compiled by Mike Franklin and Paul Malo

Rediscovering Fort Haldimand, compiled by Mike Franklin and Paul Malo

Obscurity … has hung like a cloud of oblivion over the history of this island
by: Paul Malo
Readers Exchange, April 2008

Readers Exchange, April 2008

  Re: "Where Have All the Shorelines Gone?" by Bud Andress From: Andrew Textor I'd love to have [you] come take a...
by: Paul Malo
Pisces Redux VI: Bass

Pisces Redux VI: Bass

We initiated this "Pisces Redux" series of fishing articles with a less favored species (or at least less popular among ...
by: Paul Malo
Gananoque Inn

Gananoque Inn

The Gananoque Inn & Spa, Gananoque Ontario At the turn of the twentieth century fast rail access made the Thousand ...
by: Paul Malo
Two Early Centuries, Eyeing the Islands

Two Early Centuries, Eyeing the Islands

  The saga of navigation on Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River, in war and peace, is far too vast and rich a ...
by: Paul Malo
Two Recent Centuries

Two Recent Centuries

  So, as we have seen during two earlier centuries, prior to the nineteenth century, the region already was widely...
by: Paul Malo
Where Have All the Shorelines Gone?

Where Have All the Shorelines Gone?

By Bud Andress Not that long ago, some 12,500 years, the great North American continental glacial period drew to an end...
by: Bud Andress
Concours d'Elegance

Concours d'Elegance

What do Pebble Beach, California; Amelia Island, Florida; Michigan's Meadowbrook Hall; Lake Como, Italy; and hopefully t...
by: Ian Coristine
Photography Pete Medcalf

Photography Pete Medcalf

Pete Medcalf lives on Hill Island, near the Thousand Islands Bridge. The Medcalf family cruised the Thousand Islands on ...
by: Paul Malo
Aerial Infrared Photographs

Aerial Infrared Photographs

These gorgeous images, appearing like abstract paintings, were photographed on infared film in order to show the changin...
by: Paul Malo
Thousand Islands Artist: Alfred Worsley Holdstock

Thousand Islands Artist: Alfred Worsley Holdstock

Alfred Worsley Holdstock [1820?-1901] moved from England to Montreal about 1850. There he taught drawing at the National...
by: Paul Malo
Photography by Patty Mondore

Photography by Patty Mondore

As an avid (some might say obsessed) kayaker, I feel fortunate to have been able to get up close and personal with my li...
by: Paul Malo
Forgotten Architect John B. Williams, Clayton, N.Y.

Forgotten Architect John B. Williams, Clayton, N.Y.

Overlooked by history was the designer of many river landmarks--overlooked because he did not practice independently but...
by: Paul Malo
Pisces Redux: Carp

Pisces Redux: Carp

Are Carp news? Have the big fish suddenly migrated into our waters, perhaps filling some void left by decline in other s...
by: Paul Malo
Pisces Redux: Muskies

Pisces Redux: Muskies

Most of us have spent a lifetime—or a lifetime of summers—on the river without ever even seeing, let alone catching, a M...
by: Paul Malo
Sinking a Scuba Mecca

Sinking a Scuba Mecca

We think of landmarks as being on land, but we have underwater landmarks on the river. Soon we may have one more. A non-...
by: Paul Malo
Captain Jim's Hubbard House

Captain Jim's Hubbard House

Before we had hotels, we had inns. Before we had inns, we had taverns. The earliest accommodations for visitors on the r...
by: Paul Malo
The Case of the Vanishing Sturgeon

The Case of the Vanishing Sturgeon

If Muskies grow large, the real colossus of our fish is the sturgeon, “the King of Fish.” A six-foot long record-breaker...
by: Paul Malo
Vince Dee Remembered

Vince Dee Remembered

Most of us ask what a place offers us;  fewer of us ask what we can offer the place.  Thousand Islands Life co...
by: Paul Malo
Ian Coristine's Galleries

Ian Coristine's Galleries

Ian Coristine, the preeminent photographer of the Thousand Islands, produces pictures professionally. He derives revenue...
by: Paul Malo
Recent photographs by Kathy Kempson

Recent photographs by Kathy Kempson

I was initially drawn into the bay by the sight of a heron hunting there. The mist and the early morning light and still...
by: Paul Malo
When is a Ship not a Ship?

When is a Ship not a Ship?

Answer:  When it's a Great Lakes freighter on the river. Capt. Bill Millar of Carleton Island, himself skipper of ...
by: Paul Malo
Alexandria Bay Historic Photographic Exhibition

Alexandria Bay Historic Photographic Exhibition

The major photographer of the Thousand Islands, A. C. McIntyre began taking daguerreotypes in the mid-nineteenth century...
by: Paul Malo
New Publication Wins International Award

New Publication Wins International Award

  Competing against nearly 7,500 entries, Ian Coristine's latest publication received a Premier Print Award.  ...
by: Paul Malo
Original River Houseboat, Balboa

Original River Houseboat, Balboa

The Clark family of Comfort Island in 1893 acquired the first houseboat on the river, the Comfort (later Balboa). As Pau...
by: Paul Malo
Rex Ennis' Book Project

Rex Ennis' Book Project

For several years Rex (Rexford M.) Ennis of Grindstone Island has been compiling research for a biography of Charles Goo...
by: Paul Malo
Important New Book

Important New Book

One of the leading international publishers, Rizzoli, currently is
by: Paul Malo
Island Names Directory, 2007

Island Names Directory, 2007

Help Me Catalog the Thousand Islands. International Collaborative Effort Sought Since appearance of the last issue o...
by: Ross D. Pollack
Stephanie L. Woods' Brockville Photographs

Stephanie L. Woods' Brockville Photographs

Photographs of Brockville by Brockville resident, Stephanie L Woods.  2007  King Street Old Post Office ...
by: Paul Malo
Veracity, or Truth in Advertising

Veracity, or Truth in Advertising

Phil Amsterdam, himself an old tour-boat guide and boat-line operator, complains about about sitting on his Cherry Islan...
by: Paul Malo
Party of the Century

Party of the Century

Nearly a century has passed since the first golden age of the Thousand Islands ended. A "funeral" party in 1913 at the T...
by: Paul Malo
Historic Post Cards

Historic Post Cards

A new publication presents a collection of Thousand Islands images from the past. Dudley Danielson, known to many of us ...
by: Paul Malo
Carleton Island Villa: A Souvenir The Thousand Islands of the St. Lawrence River by John A Haddock, 1895

Carleton Island Villa: A Souvenir The Thousand Islands of the St. Lawrence River by John A Haddock, 1895

Standing on the peninsula-like head of Carleton Island ...
by: Paul Malo
Carleton Villa Visit 2003

Carleton Villa Visit 2003

  The following presentation has been adapted from an article that appeared in the Thousand Islands Sun Vacationer ...
by: Paul Malo
Clayton Opens Up

Clayton Opens Up

Clayton's Carl Frink was known as inventor of the steel snow plow. His Frink Sno-Plow Co. by the 1930s had become the largest producer of snow plows in America. The Clayton plant closed in 2000, after the firm became Frink-America, Inc.
by: Paul Malo
Paul Malo's Carleton Villa Life

Paul Malo's Carleton Villa Life

  In 2006 Paul Malo shared a collection of Carleton Villa photographs.  These historic photographs have been ...
by: Paul Malo
The Vision of the Anglers' Association of the St. Lawrence River

The Vision of the Anglers' Association of the St. Lawrence River

Instead of our patchwork of public parklands on the river, we might have had—and perhaps almost had—a larger...
by: Paul Malo