A Family Project: From Stilts to Sustainability

 Birthday Island Baie Fine

Our family's story on Birthday Island began during the 1920’s when my great-grandparents were operating a summer camp/resort in the local waters of the North Channel near Killarney Ontario. In 1943 my great-grandmother acquired title to the larger of the two islands on her birthday, hence the name, and my grandfather acquired the second smaller island a few years later. The property didn't have much at first—just the promise of escape and adventure. Over the years, each generation added their own contributions.

My ancestors started by building a simple A-frame cabin on stilts, with each generation adding to the facility. Later, my great-grand parents added more structures and functions, such as a 140’ cable suspension bridge built in 1968, and a generator to power lights and appliances. My grand father and father’s generation added floating docks, auxiliary battery power with 110 volt inverter, wind and solar charging systems, composting toilet system, and internet connection, to this off-grid and un-plugged remote outpost.

We also have a propane and a dual gas and electric pressure pump water system that ensures we have clean and hot water available.

Being part of this ongoing project has taught me so much about practical skills like plumbing and electrical work. These experiences are invaluable, not just personally but professionally too, as they give me a real-world understanding of building sustainable, functional homes from the ground up.