The History of the ASLC

A loosely knit group of avid cottagers in the mid 1890’s was the catalyst for community activities on the north east corner of Juniper Island. The 1880’s and 1890’s were a popular time for tourists in the Kawarthas and even more so on Ston(e)y Lake due to considerable advertising of its resorts and steamship/train service. Canoeing was already well established after two American Canoe Association Regattas.

By October 1907, the Province of Ontario granted a charter to the first “Stony Lake Cottagers Association”.

The Juniper Island Store and the pavilion were a drawing card for cottagers and visitors for a variety of community activities. Dances were held in the pavilion with orchestras brought in from Peterborough. The pagoda was built in 1911 with a bright red roof. And of course the annual regattas continued!

The 1930’s were a challenge. By 1936 the association was in dire financial straits, a situation that didn’t improve until the current association was formed in 1950.

Fast forward to 2021 where the association continues to successfully run programs, advocate & educate on environmental issues, provide social events, and of course, run the Juniper Island Store.

(From Burleigh to Boschink: A Community Called Stony Lake by Christie Bentham & Katharine Hooke)