THE STORY OF THE 1000 ISLANDS
Visit our Permanent Exhibits in our Second Floor Gallery to learn the story of Gananoque & the 1000 Islands
GEOLOGY
Historic mountains become 1000 islands
A rocky bit of land and two trees that manage to stay above water all year long: that is what defines the 1864 islands that make up the 1000 islands region. Each of these tenacious bits of land are the remnants of a mountain range, which once traversed the area. Now, these islands are the basis for diverse habits and scenic outlooks.
ECOLOGY
All creatures great and small
Teeming with life, animals and plants use the Thousand Islands as a refuge while crossing the St.Lawrence River. The river’s moderating effect on the climate also allows for creatures from both Northern Ontario and the United States to live together in the same habitat-a rare sight to be sure!
FIRST PEOPLES
A homeland since time immemorial
We would like to acknowledge that our museum is on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee First Peoples. We make this statement in an act of reconciliation, honouring the land and Indigenous presence here, which dates back 10,000 years.
ARRIVAL OF EUROPEANS
From beaver pelts to Loyalists
The St.Lawrence River received its name from Jacques Cartier in August of 1535. The river became an important trade route during the Fur Trade and was later settled by United Empire Loyalists. Colonel Joel Stone was deeded land by the British government in 1791.
WAR OF 1812
Connon balls and musket fire
War broke out between the United States and Britain in June of 1812, placing Canada in a precarious position. Gananoque was raided in September of the same year, leading to the creation of the blockhouse. Tensions were high, and gun powder was at the ready!
INDUSTRY
The sooty progression of society
By the early 1800s saw and grist mills had begun to dot Gananouqe’s shorelines. Gananoque earned itself a reputation as an industrious little settlement. Now the Town of Gananoque’s main industry is tourism.
GOLDEN AGE
Wealthy in beauty and currency
The Gilded Age of the United States of America created a Golden Age for Gananouqe and the 1000 islands. To escape the hot polluted cities, travellers came by rail and ship to relax in picturesque Gananouqe and the nearby islands. Some enjoyed it so much, they built cottages and decided to stay.
TODAY
As charming as ever
Today Gananouqe and the 1000 Islands remain a popular destination for people from all over the world.
NEW AT THE MUSEUM
LINK TRAINER EXHIBIT
Do you want to learn how to fly blind? The Link Trainer, built in Gananoque from 1938-1946, taught pilots how to fly using only their instrumentation panels. Come visit the latest exhibit at the Museum!
1000 Islands History Museum App
Take history with you wherever you go! The 1000 Islands History Museum App offers a museum tour, heritage walking tour, venue guide, and fall fairs tour— all in one place. Explore exhibits, learn local stories, and navigate our spaces with ease. Whether you’re visiting in person or exploring from home, the app is your digital guide to the rich heritage of the Thousand Islands.
1000 ISLANDS HISTORY MUSEUM 