Heart Island: A love story

 July 22. 2021

Swan Bay Resort, Alexandria Bay, NY

Today's adventure was all about a love story.  In 1900, George Boldt, a self made millionaire,

purchased Hart Island, which he renamed to Heart Island, and began construction on a 'Castle' for his wife, Louise. 

With 6 stories and 127 rooms, it was an elaborate undertaking with no expense spared.  In January of  1904, his wife died and George sent word to cease construction and he just walked away. 

 After years of neglect and vandalism, Boldt Castle is slowly being restored to the splendor of the early 1900's.

It is jaw dropping gorgeous with lots of attention to detail.  Even the organ in the ballroom was spectacular as was the stained glass skylight dome.

I'm certain, had Louise lived long enough to reside in the castle, there would have plenty of entertaining in the dining room with seating for 22 and a good sized kitchen to prepare the 9 course meals that were common back then.

  But the castle had been vandalized over the years by the weather and humans as can be seen on the upper floors that have not undergone restoration yet.

The tour was self guided with a script available on an app downloaded to your phone and in print and audio format.  Well done!!  Take it at your own pace.

Boldt Castle, being located on Heart Island, surrounded by the water of the St. Lawrence is only approachable by boat.  Uncle Sam Tours is one of the companies who deliver tourists daily.  The ride over was on the smaller shuttle

While the return was on the larger boat.

The weather was perfect for a day on Heart Island whether standing on the entrance steps

Or taking taking that well framed photo by the water's edge.

I think you'll agree, this story had a lot of heart!

Too bad pets aren't allowed on the island.  I think I would have enjoyed romping in the lush grass and prancing on the marble and wooden floors.

I'm Chloe