Boldt Castle. Breathtaking Crown Jewel of the 1000 Islands. (in 4K)

This castle is just baffling in its size and luxury. George Boldt and his family were very wealthy and often spent their summers here on Heart Island and he decided to build a massive Castle and other interesting ancillary buildings to show his Love to his wife, Louise. He even changed the Island's outline so it was heart-shaped.

Sadly, in 1904, Louise died suddenly and George was so heartbroken that he ordered construction of the Castle to stop, even though it was nearly complete. George Boldt never returned to the Island. The castle remained empty for decades. It passed through several owners over the years but most could not afford the upkeep of the 127-room Castle, so it became derelict and soon it was roofless and inhabited. Local people came to the Island and vandalized property by scratching their names. in the walls and took the pieces as souvenirs.

Finally in 1977, the 1000 Island Bridge Authority decided to buy it and turn it into a tourist attraction, where all the money collected from entrance fees would be plowed back into paying for a lengthy restoration. stands and auxiliary buildings. The restoration is not yet complete, but the work they have done is amazing. The Castle is beautiful and each year you return to visit the Castle, there are new areas open to the public as more and more rooms are restored.

This is truly one of the most spectacular structures we have ever seen and it is a testament to the love George was trying to show to his wife but also shows the sheer wealth that the industrialists of the time had. First period available. Remember that this massive Castle with 127 rooms and many other ancillary buildings, was not a full-time home but a Summer House for his visiting family. The Boldts had 6 other homes and owned 60 boats including the Duchess, a huge 2 deck houseboat which they would tow to various anchorages in the area using a large tug which they also own.

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