Originally named for an 1800’s British gunboat, its ability to astonish and amaze remains. It features rocky coves, high cliffs and is surrounded by fresh water that reaches over 100 feet deep. It’s been in the same family for nearly 100 years and has a smattering of small 1940’s era cabins on the eastern end. While there are numerous scenic lookouts and building spots around the island, the eastern cabins are the only evidence of human activity. 90% of Dumfounder remains untouched and is a regional geological gem.
Dumfounder is a 9-acre granite island in the Lake Fleet Group of the 1000 Islands, Canada.
Size
9 Acres
Location
1000 Islands, CanadaFind on map
9 Acres in Size
Big enough to explore and discover new things every day, but small enough to manage
Completely Private
A rustic hideaway or architectural gem? Your choice.
Running Water
Pumphouse sources and purifies water directly from the St. Lawrence River
Power & Electricity
An underwater power grid is connected at both east and west sides of the island
Buildings & Docks
The island is big enough for new generations to enjoy or to expand with new cabins or homes
Central Location
Dumfounder is mid-river, minutes to Gananoque (Ontario) or Clayton (New York)
The Cabins
The main cottage features a granite fireplace and expansive views south and east on the St. Lawrence River.
It is not insulated but is easy to keep warm well into December. It could easily be updated to make Dumfounder a special spot to visit in the winter as well. It features a living/dining area, bathroom and bunky room with 3 beds and a private entrance.
There is also a Master cottage with private bath.
The guest cottage has a main sleeping area for two, a backroom with three bunks and a shared bathroom with shower.
There is also a simple kitchen setup with fridge when needed. Another sleeping cottage has been converted over the years to a storage facility and there is a small pumphouse. Water is sourced from the River and purified for all uses even though the water straight from the depths of the River, routinely passes water quality tests!
The Docks
The docks are on granite cribs which over the years have proven to be very strong with winter ice.
Just the same, while very much usable the docks will need attention soon and possibly reconfiguration. The main dock has a 40 foot slip and covered area.
Island Life
You make a special effort every time you travel, to get in your boat and out of the boat. Transfer people and supplies. Some will ask ‘why not get a spot you can drive to?”
A poem by Rachel Lyman Field explains it. It’s true! It’s a different life and once you live it, you’ll never forget it. The island community is composed of people from everywhere who make a special effort to get to the 1000 Islands every year. Currently some of Dumfounders neighbours connect to Ottawa, Boston, Gananoque, New York, Connecticut, Toronto, Nashville and more. Here, everyone is just a River person.
On Dumfounder there is lots to do.
You make a special effort every time you travel, to get in your boat and out of the boat. Transfer people and supplies. Some will ask ‘why not get a spot you can drive to?”
A poem by Rachel Lyman Field explains it. It’s true! It’s a different life and once you live it, you’ll never forget it. The island community is composed of people from everywhere who make a special effort to get to the 1000 Islands every year. Currently some of Dumfounders neighbours connect to Ottawa, Boston, Gananoque, New York, Connecticut, Toronto, Nashville and more. Here, everyone is just a River person.
On Dumfounder there is lots to do.
