Matthew Farfan

Boating has been a popular summer pastime in the Eastern Townships for generations. The Victorians and Edwardians were especially fond of their boats. Skiffs, launches, steamers, and yachts of all shapes and sizes were summertime symbols of wealth and status.

Left: Boating, North Hatley, c.1900.

Memphremagog, Massawippi and Megantic are among the largest lakes in the Townships. Not surprisingly, they have always been (and still are) the most popular lakes for pleasure boaters. The boats have evolved since Victorian times, but a wide variety of craft still share these waters, including high-speed power boats, fishing boats, sailboats, canoes, and kayaks. In some places -- Magog, for instance -- passenger cruises are still being offered.

For a glimpse of what boating looked like a hundred years ago, click here.

Right: Cruise boat "Aventure" leaving Magog dock.
(Photos: Private Collection)