Trillium grant helps Thousand Islands Boat Museum expand educational programming

Local MPP Steve Clark was in Gananoque on Wednesday, July 22 to celebrate the completion of a $148,000 Ontario Trillium Foundation grant for the Thousand Islands Boat Museum.

The money comes from the Foundation’s Resilient Communities Fund and has helped the museum strengthen its long-term sustainability through new educational programming over the last two years.

Located on Water Street in Ganonoque, the museum is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving, sharing and celebrating the boating heritage of the 1000 Islands and showcases a large collection of preserved and restored antique boats.

“The Thousand Islands Boat Museum connects the community with the heritage of the river,” said Clark.
“I’m pleased that the Ontario Trillium Foundation has made this important investment in the Boat Museum, a project that has helped the museum strengthen its educational programming, reconnect with local youth, and build a stronger foundation for the future. I want to congratulate the staff, volunteers, and board members whose dedication continues to preserve and share the rich heritage of the Thousand Islands region.”

The grant, which was originally awarded in 2024, has helped the Boat Museum to expand its community outreach through the educational partnerships with local schools and allowed them to hire an educational engagement coordinator develop to and implement program delivery methods.

During the announcement, local youth from the museum’s boat camp were busy carving wooden oars.

Ganonoque Mayor John Beddows, who was also present, talked about the importance of the museum’s role in keeping the boating history of the region alive and connected it to his youth spent building boats and guiding fish tours on the lodge he grew up on in northern Ontario.

“Museums are talked about as being about the past, but the reality is that the future is built on the past, and reminding people of the value of where they come from is the purpose of so many museums. It’s not just about education; it’s about creating and nurturing a love for things.”

Beddows thanked Clark for his commitment to the museum’s cause and the communities of the St. Lawrence River.

Executive Director Susanne Richter was also honoured by the assembled speakers for her leadership and long-term dedication to the museum.

“We all know Susanne, we all love Susanne,” said Trillium Grant team member and former TICDC Executive Director Tom Russell.

“We know how hard she works on behalf of this organization. I worked with her for decades in my previous employment. I can say with certainty one of the most capable, confident, kind, and benevolent human beings I have ever met. Susanne, thank you for everything you do for the town and for this opportunity.”

For more information, visit the Thousand Islands Boat Museum website, Facebook page and Instagram account.