When I planned our stay in the Thousand Islands it was due to some very old, very vague fond memories of a camping trip to the area. I can’t even remember now when I was there; I just recall being struck by the serenity and beauty of the area.
So my plan for our day in Clayton was pretty vague, being best expressed as “see the Thousand Islands.” The staff at the campground office suggested a 2-hour boat trip and that seemed like a good idea. But Jett, who was suffering from what was possibly a scratched cornea, didn’t want a long boat ride in the open air and bright sun. So I looked for something that would require only a short boat ride and found it in a tour of Boldt Castle. Only a 10-minute boat ride each way and a turn-of-the-century “castle” to view. Sounded like our kind of fun.
It was a beautiful day for anything we wanted to do – low 70’s, puffy clouds, bright sunshine. The castle looked great, inside and out. I got some very nice photos.
Alster Tower
This castle/mansion is different than others I have toured, such as the Biltmore Estate or the Newport mansions. This home was never completed, never lived in. It was built as a summer home for George Boldt and his family, but after 4 years of construction his wife died suddenly and he immediately terminated construction. He never returned to the island. It was left to rot for over 70 years until it was gifted to the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority who decided to restore it as a tourist attraction. The original intent was simply to restore it to the state it was in when construction was abandoned, but after achieving that goal – and because it was so popular as an attraction – they decided to continue with the restoration with a long-term goal of completing construction. It continues to be a work in progress. Most of the lower two floors have been restored, but 4 more stories remain in an unfinished and deteriorated state. It will be years before construction is completed – if ever.
But what exists is pretty spectacular. Because the finish carpentry is modern and the house has never been inhabited, it has a “new house” feel, with turn-of-the-century architecture and details. It is pretty unique. And fascinating.
And if you catch it on a nice day, like we did, it is supremely photogenic. The house is surrounded by beautifully manicured grounds with two interesting outbuildings – a small castle-like building which was a power plant for the mansion and a medieval tower that was built as a party venue and children’s playground. The tower was completed before work on the main building began and includes some interesting features, including a basement with two bowling alleys (now being restored).
It was a lovely day and a real treat. An unexpected pleasure.
Welcome arch
Bowling alleys (in progress)
Castle and grounds
The central staircase
George’s bedroom
Kitchen
Jett and me with the silver