Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin Island rests between Georgian Bay and Lake Huron and is the ancestral home of the Odawa First Nations people, whom you may not know, as well as the Huron and Iroquois, whom you probably know. If I may return you to grade 5 Canadian history, you will remember Samuel de Champlain – he’s a big name on the early explorer list, and this is where he first met the Odawa people in 1615. Then the Jesuits arrived around the 17^th century and set up their mission and that encompassed teaching the people to read and write as well as how to farm, run a business and the importance of embracing and adhering to Catholic tradition.

You know how the story usually goes but this plot line incorporates a twist. The Odawa people refused to sign the treaty trading more of their settlement land for reserve land and the government let it go. Yup, a large population of First Nations (8 tribes in all) live, work and play here and they do a great job of promoting its unique history and beauty for the tourist (my current interest) as well as working the land. Farmland is plentiful and profitable and the cottage-style homes are cozy with expansive gardens and lush lawns and the views are varied and captivating. There are also the usual treats for sale along with handcrafted items using ingredients from the island itself.

The two hour ferry sails not 5 minutes from here to Bruce Peninsula in the morning and the village of South Baymouth offered us a chance to camp on the shores of Lake Huron tonight so that’s our intention. The skies are pink, the air tinged with the smoke of nearby campfires, and the lake reflects a rosy glow as we prepare to settle in for the night.

One more little thing; Stella (our van) is drawing more attention of late, despite her bug-splattered nose. The conversation usually begins, “Your plate is BC, I noticed. Where in BC are you from?”…the answer from us…”Where are you heading?”…..our answer….”Never been there but I sure would like to go someday.” We are just so thankful we are…going, that is!