Alexandria Bay and the 1000 Islands

After leaving that wonderful campground on the island, we were convinced that we were never to find a site that we would enjoy as much. True, but we found one almost as nice. On an island in Alexandia Bay, just over the bridge to Canada called Wellesley State Park.

Since we wanted to spend the day in Alexandria Bay and the 1000 Island area, we got on the stick to find a campsite first, then we were off to play.




Stopped at an information area just before the Bay and booked tickets for a Bay tour and stopover at the Boldt Castle. We had about one half hour to park the "lead sled" and get our butts on to the docks for the boat. It was hot as Hell! But, once out on the Saint Lawrence Seaway it was comfortable and quite scenic and enjoyable. The boat tour was about 2 1/2 hours in length departing from Alexandria Bay, through international waters with views of historic and scenic wanders in both the Canadian and American sections of the 1000 islands (actually over 1700 islands) before it dropped us off at Heart Island where the Boldt Castle is.

The Castle: bought by George Boldt in September of 1899, to build a castle for his wife and present it to her on Valentines Day. This was to be a gift of love, but his wife died suddenly from a heart attack just 18 months prior to it's completion.

It has an indoor swimming pool, rises six stories in height, and the castles 120+ rooms were served by an elevator. The Castle itself was modeled after buildings of the 16th century, with classical details applied to the towered, medieval forms, combining traditional elements with such modern features as large, plate glass windows and extensive wrap-around porches. The castles massive granite walls were ornamented with decorative details of cast terra cotta, and roofs were tiled with the same material.

The day after Mrs. Boldt's death, George Boldt sent a telegram telling all of the workers to stop construction and the island stayed as it was at that moment.

For 73 years, the castle and various stone structures were left to the mercy of the wind, rain, ice, snow and vandals. When the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority acquired the property in 1977, it was decided that through the use of all net revenues from the Castle operation it would be preserved for the enjoyment of future generations.

Since 1977, several million dollars have been applied to rehabilitating, restoring and improving the Heart Island structures.

Truly a beautiful tribute and a awesome tour.