Builders of Wanda III were leaders in their day Polson Iron Works closed many years ago, but in over 50 years of operation it produced some incredible vessels, including a few that are still in operation. Most notably, the beloved Wanda III. The company began operating as an engine builder in Cobourg, Ontario in 1878. […]
Wanda III is housed in a custom-built boathouse and will soon resume cruising on the lakes. But before there was a III, there was Wanda II. Wanda II was a 94-foot steam yacht owned by Timothy and Margaret Eaton from 1905 to 1914. She was built by Polson Iron Works in Toronto and was kept […]
1914 was a significant year around the world and also in Muskoka. The year was marked by the outbreak of the First World War and the sinking of the ocean liner Empress of Ireland. And it was also the last time the ship we now know as RMS Segwun sailed under her original name, Nipissing. […]
The Chinese translation of Muskoka Lakes is “Honeymoon Lakes”. Although I don’t know how the translation happens, it does accurately express this area of Ontario. No matter spring, summer, autumn or winter; regardless of sun, wind, rain or snow, as long as you are here, your feeling will always be so sweet like honey. When […]
The Disappearing Propeller Motorboat is basically a double ended lapstrake rowing skiff that was converted to a power boat by mounting a single cylinder, low horsepower two-cycle inboard gasoline motor in the centre. The motor was connected by way of a universal joint, to a hinged and elevating propeller shaft that also protected the rotating […]
This past winter the phrase “busy as a beaver” certainly applies to the volunteers at Heritage Boat Works. However, since they create many items with wood, this phrase might not be appropriate. Heritage Boatworks is a group of volunteers who work every Wednesday morning year-round repairing items on the RMS Segwun and Wenonah II and […]
Have you wondered how towns and villages in Muskoka got their names? It is acknowledged that many of these communities had Indigenous names used by those who lived here for many centuries. However, most of these communities were given their English monikers when they were granted permission to have post offices. They needed an […]
The Muskoka Discovery Centre is proud to announce that its acclaimed Misko-Aki: Confluence of Cultures exhibit has received an award for Outstanding Achievement in Exhibitions from the Canadian Museums Association (CMA). There were more than 25 organizations under consideration in a multi-juried process with criteria including potential impact and connection with community. […]
The Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre is pleased to announce Wendy Fairbairn as General Manager and Tom Rose as Curator and Operations Manager of the Muskoka Discovery Centre. Wendy has a strong leadership background within Muskoka and beyond in the arts and culture field, building annual programming resulting in growth in tourism and community participation. […]
Join us for the 2025 Muskoka Wedding Show on Saturday February 8, 2025 at the Muskoka Discovery Centre in Gravenhurst! Featuring a variety of vendors covering everything you will need to plan your dream Muskoka wedding! Show hours are 9am to 4pm on February 8, 2025 Muskoka Discovery Centre is located at 275 Steamship […]
The Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre is the leader in preserving, promoting and celebrating the culture and heritage of Canada’s Muskoka District. Founded in 1973, the MS&DC is a membership-based, not-for-profit registered charity with an ongoing objective of presenting compelling, entertaining and educational experiences, attractions and events.
Charitable Number: 132617770RR0001
