The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund (NOHFC) has announced significant support for the largest restoration in the 145-year history of the RMS Segwun, Canada’s iconic steamship. The fund also announced important support for the “Love Muskoka, Sustain Muskoka” exhibit at the Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre.
Graydon Smith, MPP Parry Sound-Muskoka, and George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth, visited the Muskoka Discovery Centre in Gravenhurst on Friday (Jan. 30) to announce their commitment and support through NOHFC in the amount of $830,000. This grant is a critical piece of financing in the project, which will cost more than $2.2 million.
The Royal Mail Ship Segwun is North America’s oldest operating, coal-fired steamship and the sole survivor of a fleet of steamships that carried passengers, mail and freight throughout Muskoka before the days of modern roads and the automobile. 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.
If you’ve never had the opportunity to take a ride on this historic ship, which is based in Gravenhurst, only 90 minutes or so north of Toronto, you’re missing one of the top experiences in Ontario, and, indeed, all of Canada.
The RMS Segwun in action. PHOTO COURTESY MUSKOKA STEAMSHIPS & DISCOVERY CENTRE
The Segwun Restoration Project will include the replacement of both structural and cosmetic woodwork focusing on the top deck, wheelhouse and interior using weather resistant materials. Engine room work will include modernizing machinery including piping, rewiring/replacing electrical safety items and upgrading to LED lighting. Work on RMS Segwun is expected to be complete by the end of August, and she will resume carrying passengers on September 1, 2026.
“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,” said John Miller, president of the Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre. “Quite simply, we would not be able to undertake a project of this scale and importance without this invaluable support.”
In addition to this Grant from NOHFC, the Segwun Restoration Project has also received financial support from FedNor, and an esteemed group of community leaders.
Smith and Pirie announced $500,000 in funding for Love Muskoka Sustain Muskoka through the NOHFC. The project has also received funding from FedNor, the District Municipality of Muskoka and private individuals.
The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund has announced significant funding for restoration of the RMS Segwun, and for the Love Muskoka, Sustain Muskoka exhibit at the Muskoka Steamships and Discovery Centre in Gravenhurst.
The Love Muskoka Sustain Muskoka exhibit will enhance the award-winning Muskoka Discovery Centre’s ability to celebrate, protect, and share Muskoka’s unique heritage, environment, and culture.
“This funding is a tremendous investment in Muskoka’s story and its future,” said Wendy Fairbairn, General Manager of the Muskoka Discovery Centre. “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 NOHFC, FedNor, and the District Municipality of Muskoka.”
Editor’s Note: Yours truly is on the board of directors of the Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre.
