The mist was still on the water as we headed off on our Canoe Lake adventure Friday morning. The electric canoe slid silently over the water as we imagined Tom Thomson’s mysterious drowning in July 1917.
Thomson spent a great deal of time in Algonquin (1912-1917)—especially Canoe Lake. When he wasn’t socializing at Mowat Lodge, or picking up guiding jobs, he had a special spot just a canoe ride away where he loved to tent and paint. Today a memorial cairn is erected at that spot. It was designed by J.E.H. MacDonald, who would later become one of the founding members of the Group of Seven. The cairn praises Thomson’s character and painting, and ends claiming the wilderness “...took him to itself at last “. Very touching. Thanks to our guide we were also able the find the spot where Thomson was originally buried before his remains were moved to Leith, Ontario. As soon as our canoe pulled up to the rocks we hopped off and were able to locate several of the foundations that remain of the Town of Mowat. The grave was a little more difficult and involved a few twist and turns, and muddy hiking shoes, as we headed up the hill. It is a simple white cross just outside the tiny formal fenced cemetery. If it weren’t for the fishing lure and the paintbrush, left by admirers, it would be easy to miss. By the time of Tom Thomson’s death he was an expert canoeist and a strong swimmer. It was a surprise to everyone when his empty canoe washed up on shore. There has always been speculation that there is more to the story, but for us the important part was that we were able to think again on the incredible works Thomson left us in his short career as an artist. Home tomorrow to warm up and dry out 😄 You are Always in my Prayers. Love Mom. Note: guided tour by Stuart from Algonquin Adventure Tours
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Ray & Diane HomewoodSharing the Blessing of Travel Archives
August 2022
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