Day 31: Clayton, NY

Day 31: August 18: We are so thankful we decided to stay at this marina for 2 nights. As predicted, the wind howled all day long with a couple of small showers. About 7:00 am a quick moving squall passed through that must have been whipping up to 30 to 35kn and torrential rain. It was short lived but my goodness where did that come from? We watched some daring souls bouncing up and down the river throughout the day but for the most part people stayed put. 

A quick word about Clayton which is in the Thousands Islands. It is a river village that is situated on a peninsula surrounded by the St. Lawrence River only minutes from the Canadian border. The river walk is lovely, leading to a vibrant downtown area filled with restaurants and shops of all kinds. It is a great stop for boaters as we saw over the past two days. Canadian or American, everyone was quick to help another boat pull in (especially tricky with the high winds) for the night. We had great fun chatting with folks on the dock and all agreed that boating people are usually very friendly. We spoke at length with one particular Canadian gentleman and his wife who shared some good information about anchorages and where to stop to check in once we cross into Canada. 

The sun did come out for most of the day but with the steady wind it felt like a crisp fall day. We took the bikes for a few trips to the grocery store to stock up while we have the opportunity. The highlight of the day was visiting the Antique Boat Museum and touring La Duchesse, a Gilded age two-story historic houseboat commissioned by hotelier George C. Boldt in 1903. Boldt was among a group of people who purchased land and transformed the landscape of the Thousand Islands by erecting summer homes and resorts. His empire came to include the Thousands Islands Club (and yes the Thousand Islands dressing), a Wellsley Island farm and the Boldt Castle. The Duchesse is a 104' houseboat which was built in sections which were shipped by rail, assembled and launched onto the St. Lawrence River. Built like a barge, it has no engine and was to be used as a summer home. 

Edward Noble, who made his fortune with the Life Saver Candy Company bought much of the Boldt estate in 1922. Unlike Boldt, he used most of the properties as a business investment as part of the 1000 Islands Country Club. Unfortunately, the Great Depression ruined his plans and the houseboat became neglected, entering a period of gradual decline. She actually sank in her slip in 1943. 

The final owner was Andrew McNally (of Rand McNally). The McNally family had been summering in the 1000 Islands since the 1890's so Andrew was familiar with La Duchesse. He purchased her from Noble for $100 with a promise to remove her from the yacht house where she had sunk. La Duchesse was renovated, and the McNally family enjoyed her as a summer home. She was eventually gifted to the Antique Boat Museum upon Andrew's death in 2001. 

We spent a few hours at the Antique Boat Museum. We absolutely loved it! Anyone who likes to boat has to appreciate the evolution of boating and the craftsmanship that has gone into making beautiful vessels from canoes to pleasure boats to racers over the years. The museum houses more than 300 boats in its collection. Some have been left in the condition as found, others have been carefully refurbished. It was interesting to read the placards placed near the boats detailing the year made, its history, speed, use and what it cost in the 30's, 40's, 50's etc. Many of the early boats resembled cars with their steering wheels, chrome adornments and seating. I could just picture folks touring up and down the lake and rivers showing off their beauty much like people do with classic cars. I need not say anything more about the museum as the pictures tell it all.

While we were there John and I both picked out our next boats! Take a look at my choice. As fiberglass started to replace wood, Sears jumped right away and started selling these little runabouts! I can just picture young kids in the 50's riding up and down in this sleek racer!

After a great day at the museum we had an absolutely incredible pizza at Wood Boat Brewery. Haha appropriate name as it is right across the street from the museum. Had to try their IPA called Channel Marker. Very good with lots of hops and a slight citrus taste. We made it back to the boat by bike just before the rain started. And boy did it rain all night. We are hoping the winds die off tomorrow so we can be on our way.