8 UNIQUE MUSKOKA <strong>August</strong> 2016
{<strong>Muskoka</strong> Insights { Taking a cruise on the RMS Segwun is like taking a step back in time. Shutting your eyes during the calm of a late-night cruise, it doesn’t take one long to envision they were there, some 150 years ago, when the first steamer crossed Lake <strong>Muskoka</strong>. The rippling of the water against the hull, the powerful whooshing of the mighty piston drive, the blending of the cool night breeze with the intense heat from the coal-fired boiler… all interrupted by the piercing sound of the ship’s steam whistle. With a little imagination, our senses allow us to do some travelling to a time before automobiles and highways. It’s the closest we can get to understanding the thoughts of the entrepreneurial Alexander Peter Cockburn who invested in the launching of a steamship company on the waterways of <strong>Muskoka</strong>. For <strong>Muskoka</strong>, it was a time when its potential would be opened to the rest of the world. It took a person with vision and daring, and A.P. Cockburn demonstrated he had both and more as he set about building the small fleet that would push development up the lakes. It seems only natural that an area as blessed as <strong>Muskoka</strong> – with so many navigable lakes and rivers – would welcome its first settlers and visitors by ship. And, when natural obstacles stood in the way, as they did in Port Carling, it took a person with Cockburn’s determination and connection to overcome them. In this issue of <strong>Unique</strong> <strong>Muskoka</strong>, we are marking the 150th anniversary of the launching of the Wenonah, the first of A.P. Cockburn’s fleet but just as importantly, we are also celebrating Cockburn, the man who made it all possible. While Cockburn accomplished much, contributor Jack Hutton tells us this pioneer of transportation died before the truly golden years of steamship travel in <strong>Muskoka</strong>. However, without Cockburn’s initiative, the <strong>Muskoka</strong> story might be much different. Also in this issue of <strong>Unique</strong> <strong>Muskoka</strong>, our readers can be a part of another more recent era with a visit to the collections of automobiles and memorabilia that have been preserved by some longtime <strong>Muskoka</strong>ns. They have a passion for antique and classic vehicles and are opening their doors to the public as part of a fundraiser to support the South <strong>Muskoka</strong> Hospital Auxiliary on Aug. 13. For those interested in the outdoors, balancing on a cable – high in the treetops – might provide you with the thrill you are seeking. Or, you might be interested in what steps are being taken to stem the invasion of the emerald ash borer. And, there is the dedicated group of beekeepers who are doing their part to ensure these important pollinators will continue to provide diversity within our flora. <strong>Muskoka</strong> is known for its artisans and one who has a reputation for his creativity is Peter Fromme-Douglas. Always pushing the boundaries and finding new ways to demonstrate his talent, Fromme-Douglas brings vibrancy to his work… a perfect reflection of his personality. And for a truly unique taste of <strong>Muskoka</strong>, you won’t want to miss our regular feature, Cottage Country Cuisine. In this issue, we tell the story of <strong>Muskoka</strong>’s brew masters and share some recipes that pair well with their ales. For our close, adventurer Les Stroud shares how a childhood in <strong>Muskoka</strong> prepared him for his role as Survivorman. <strong>Muskoka</strong>… so much to celebrate… so unique! Happy reading. Photograph: Susan Smith Open For live chat, push door. Real local people. Real local service. With State Farm ® every policy comes with your own personal agent. I pride myself on being part of the local community so I can truly understand and best serve the needs of my customers. Get to a better State. ® Get State Farm. ® CALL ME TODAY. Les Bell Ins Agcy Inc Les Bell, Agent Bracebridge, ON P1L2C1 Bus: 705-646-9995 Toll Free: 877-877-3929 www.lesbell.ca State Farm branded policies are underwritten by Certas Home and Auto Insurance Company or Desjardins Financial Security Life Assurance Company. ® State Farm and related trademarks and logos are registered trademarks owned by State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, used under licence by Certas Home and Auto Insurance Company, and certain of its affiliates. 1410005CN.1 Sales Representatives <strong>August</strong> 2016 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 9