Life on the Edge - Stories from Muskoka's Past

For centuries, the granite that lies just beneath the surface has shaped life on the edge of the Canadian Shield. Through the beauty of the environment, and the spirit of Muskoka’s residents, a mystique has evolved that continues to draw people to the area today.

Concerned residents have been working for decades to reclaim lands and waters that were tainted by industrial and residential abuses of the past. Today, countless community groups work to protect Muskoka’s shores. Includes caring for the Watershed and mitigating pollution, the Iroquois Cranberry Growers and the Wahta Mohawks.

When the highway reached Muskoka in the 1930’s, the ever-increasing numbers of automobiles prompted great changes in the tourism economy. While the car was a boon for some enterprises, it was the death knell for the Steamships. Includes the last days of the Steamers, the fall of the big resorts and the rise of cottages, Santa’s Village and winter at Limberlost Lodge and the Huntsville winter carnival.

When Norway was occupied during WWII, the country’s Air Force established a training camp in Muskoka. Here, they could fly over terrain that was similar to that of their home.

Like jewels in a crown, the district’s landscape is dappled with lakes. Numerous boat-building enterprises evolved to help Muskokans navigate the waters. This chapter discusses Disappearing Propeller Boats (Dippies), Ditchburn, Minette-Shields, Greavettes, Fairmiles, Minesweepers and Honey Harbour.

While venues such as Dunn’s Pavilion and the Royal Muskoka attracted celebrities from throughout North America, the area’s residents worked hard to keep the Muskoka Mystique alive.

Operating the tannery in Huntsville was not enough for C.O. Shaw. A band and a luxury resort were among the many projects that occupied Shaw’s time. This chapter includes the Anglo Canadian Leather Company Band, Bigwin Island and its famous clientele.

The unique landscape that is Muskoka has continually drawn people to the area that were looking not only to define themselves, but also the Canadian identity.

By the time of his death in 1905, A.P. Cockburn was able to see hotels, steamers, and commerce booming in the district. Cockburn’s foresight allowed Muskoka to flourish and left him with a legacy that still resonates today. This chapter discusses the Muskoka Lakes Association, Regattas, the Royal Muskoka Hotel and A.P. Cockburn’s Death.

By 1910 more than 75 resorts of all shapes and sizes doted the area’s lakes. People were escaping the pollution of industrial cities for the clean, cool air of Muskoka. This chapter examines the Muskoka Sanitariums, Windermere House, Bondi Village, Stanton House, Beaumaris, Britannia and Severn Lodge.