Full steam ahead as funding comes in for RMS Segwun restoration

Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre is celebrating after receiving provincial funding for two projects.

On Friday, Parry Sound-Muskoka MPP Graydon Smith was joined by George Pirie, minister of northern economic development and growth, to announce an $830,000 Northern Ontario Heritage Fund grant to go toward the restoration of the RMS Segwun.

It will be the largest restoration in the ship’s 145-year history, with an overall price tag of $2.2 million, and will include the replacement of structural and cosmetic woodwork on the top deck, wheelhouse and interior using weather-resistant materials. The engine room machinery will also be modernized, with work on piping, rewiring/replacing electrical safety items and upgrading to LED lighting.

Restoration is expected to be finished by the end of August, and the RMS Segwun will resume carrying passengers Sept. 1.

“Funding for the Segwun restoration project is a commitment to safeguarding our shared heritage, strengthening local jobs, and ensuring that our tourism icon continues to serve future generations,” John Miller, president of the Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre, said in a news release. “Quite simply, we would not be able to undertake a project of this scale and importance without this invaluable support.”

The RMS Segwun is North America’s oldest operating, coal-fired steamship “and the sole survivor of a fleet of steamships which carried passengers, mail and freight throughout Muskoka before the days of modern roads and the automobile,” the release stated.

“The award-winning Segwun is recognized as one of a kind and a global rarity. She is a vital link to our heritage as the only remaining steam-driven Royal Mail Ship in the world, having carried mail from 1925 to 1958. Segwun continues to hold status as an official Royal Mail Ship with Canada Post and she is one of only three vessels worldwide to retain this esteemed designation.”

Love Muskoka, Sustain Muskoka

Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre also announced funding to support its Love Muskoka, Sustain Muskoka exhibit.

Smith and Pirie were on hand for the announcement of the funding, which also comes from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund.

“The Love Muskoka, Sustain Muskoka exhibit will enhance the Muskoka Discovery Centre’s ability to celebrate, protect and share Muskoka’s unique heritage, environment and culture, while supporting long-term sustainability, improved visitor experiences, and increased community engagement,” the release stated.

Wendy Fairbairn, general manager of the Muskoka Discovery Centre, called the funding “a tremendous investment in Muskoka’s story and its future.”

“The Love Muskoka, Sustain Muskoka exhibit will allow us to strengthen our programs, expand our reach, and continue connecting residents and visitors to the people, places and stories that define Muskoka. We are sincerely grateful for the support from (Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation), FedNor, and the District Municipality of Muskoka,” she said.