RMS Segwun: Queen of Muskoka

Andrew Hind · Maria Da Silva

Apr 2012 · Dundurn

About this ebook

One hundred and twenty-five years of steamboating in Muskoka come alive with the anniversary celebration of the RMS Segwun.

The Royal Mail Ship Segwun is the oldest operating steamship in North America, a Muskoka icon, and one of Ontario’s best-known tourist attractions. Built as a paddlewheeler in 1887, the RMS Segwun saw her initial career suspended in the 1950s when the ship ceased operations. Fortunately, she began a new chapter in 1974 when she was lovingly restored and magnificent sightseeing cruises were offered. Those who board the vessel step back in time to a romantic era in cottage country’s history when steamboats were vital to settlement, tourism, and economic development.

The history of this celebrated Canadian ship and her sister vessels that made up the Muskoka Navigation Company fleet is thoughtfully explored, as is the long and significant past of steamboating on the Muskoka lakes. Historical and contemporary photographs complement the story of this "Queen of Muskoka" in recognition of her 125th anniversary.

Ratings and reviews

Very Good, concise, provides a good broad view of steamship era in Muskoka.

I love Muskoka and the RMS Segwun. Great book for her 125th anniversary

About the author

Andrew Hind and Maria Da Silva are freelance writers who have long vacationed in Muskoka. Both contribute regularly to regional publications such as The Muskokan, Muskoka Magazine, Muskoka Sun, and Muskoka Sideroads, and have written many travel articles on Muskoka resorts for newspapers and magazines both in Canada and abroad. Their most recent title, Muskoka Resorts: Then and Now, was released in 2011. They live in Bradford, Ontario.