At the turn-of-the-century, George C. Boldt, millionaire proprietor of the world famous Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, set out to build a full size Rhineland Castle in Alexandria Bay, on Picturesque Heart Island. The grandiose structure was to be a display of his love for his wife, Louise.
Beginning in 1900, Boldt's family shared four glorious summers on the island in the Alster Tower while 300 workers, stonemasons, carpenters, and artists fashioned the six story, 120 room castle, complete with tunnels, a powerhouse, Italian gardens, a draw bridge, and a dove cote. Not a single detail or expense was spared.
In 1904, tragedy struck. Boldt telegrammed the island and commanded the workers to immediately "stop all construction." Louise had died suddenly. A broken hearted Boldt could not imagine his dream castle without his beloved. Boldt never returned to the island, leaving behind the structure as a monument of his love.
For 73 years, the castle and various stone structures were left to the mercy of the wind, rain, ice, snow and vandals. When the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority acquired the property in 1977, it was decided that through the use of all net revenues from the Castle operation it would be preserved for the enjoyment of future generations.
Since 1977, several million dollars have been applied to rehabilitating, restoring and improving the Heart Island structures.
******************************************************************************
We went to the 1000 islands, w*a*y up in NY last weekend to celebrate my Father's 80th birthday and Father's Day. On Saturday we went on a boat tour and stopped at Boldt Castle for a look around. Aunt Suzie and Lew didn't join us - Suzie offered to stay around the dock with a very cranky boy.
The exterior, first floor and grounds were magnificent. Beautiful details.
The top floors were a *bit* stark. Just the shell - most walls were just brick.
We had this view from our hotel room balcony. The kids were very impressed!
No comments:
Post a Comment