Known for its idyllic beaches and crystal-clear waters, Swan Island is a paradise for vacationers. The island is also home to one of the country’s most interesting attractions – an abandoned prison. The prison, which was built in the 1970s, once housed up to 2,500 prisoners.
But, over the years, the prison has seen better days and now only a few dozen prisoners are kept there. If you’re interested in exploring the island, be sure to pack your swimming gear because the beaches are perfect for a dip.
Contents
All About Of Swan Island
History
Swan Island is one of Ontario’s oldest islands, and it was first inhabited by the Wyandot people. The island came under French control in the early 17th century and remained under French rule until 1759, when it was annexed by Britain. In 1837, Swan Island became part of Canada following Treaty 10 between Britain and United States.
The prison on Swan Island began operation in 1971 as a result of overcrowding on the mainland. The prison, which was built in the 1970s and is located inside a former naval base near Windsor, on Ontario’s west coast, houses about 100 prisoners.
Climate
The climate on Swan Island is typically warm and temperate. There are usually highs of around 30 degrees Celsius and lows of about 18 degrees Celsius. Winter temperatures are quite mild and the temperature can get up to 8 degrees Celsius on occasion.
In high-humidity months, summer is extremely humid, with lows often only 1 to 2 degrees Celsius. Spring has a comfortable amount of warmth but winter gales still seem too harsh for some wannabe swimmers due to frigid ocean waters.
Culture
The culture on Swan Island is a mix of French and British influences. There are many interesting historical sites available to explore, including the abandoned prison that is home to one of the country’s most interesting attractions. TIP Try negotiating with the warden and get an entire twelve can case of beer inside.
The Wardens of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) started calling themselves such in 1867, when they were tasked with keeping lawlessness at bay.
Fishing
The waters surrounding Swan Island are a rich feeding ground for the lake trout. Lake trout reach their potential size in the upper reaches of streams, and usually only two to three fish will average around 70 pounds live weight.
If you’re interested in discovering what this great fishing looks like up close, contact one of your local guide services or look into renting some gear from a guided outfitter that prides itself on helping clients achieve success on their first outing.
The sport fish for Swan Island are also the walleye, northern pike and perch, catfish-only from September through December. There is a large demand for these fish in dining establishments and local markets by aboriginal groups as well as fishermen who enjoy catching an unlimited supply of delicious white bass all winter long!
Politics
As a Canadian island territory, Swan Island is home to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). The RCMP were formed in 1867 and are tasked with upholding law & order on Canada’s mainland.
This can take the form of police intervention in the cases of illegal drug and alcohol use, along with full enforcement power over people.
Contrary to what you may think from their name, RCMP does not solely include North American mounties! It is known for its distinctive red uniform that resemble an old fashioned military jacket.
The Warrant Officer ranks are pictured right – below them on every target; if you see a picture like this come up during your travels as license plate stands, or on the walls of RCMP buildings, it’s a good chance to not only meet some friendly members of this great nation but also hang out with little girls in red jackets!
Government Services
Residents of Swan Island rely on the Canadian government for most services. These can include postal service, access to medical care, and disaster relief & emergency management through the Canadian Forces Detachment of Alert and Support (CFAS).
CFAS is responsible for providing support to other territorial communities in times of emergencies such as hurricanes or forest fires. They have helped neighbouring islands in the past, such as Saanich and Amherst Island.
Tourism
Tourism on Swan Island is a growing industry. The island is well known for its white bass fishing, and has many attractions that can be seen by tourists such as the RCMP museum, lighthouse, beaches and parks.
Gastro Pub & Restaurant
One of the main tourist attractions on Swan Island is the Gastropub. Voted Best Restaurants in Victoria for 2015, Bayshore Bar and Grill provides great food made from fresh produce and local Shellfish.
The top shellfish dish here at Bayshore are Smoked Salmon Platter which is a cost effective option to poor quality smoked salmon you will find elsewhere! Cheap seafood means more money in your pocket, and can be bought at only 12.5% markup with the Gastropub!
Lighthouse & Coast Guard Museum
Visitors to Swan Island will find that there is a lighthouse on every island – all you have to do is look them up! Each one of the seven lighthouses was built by expert workers who arrived on this little piece of land from Sweden in 1895.
The Lighthouse Museum goes into detail about these lighthouses, each one boasting the history of the African region they were built in.
Conclusion
The Swan Island is a small, uninhabited island located in the middle of the Detroit River. It was once used as a dumping ground for industrial waste and toxic chemicals. Thankfully, the island was purchased by the city of Detroit in 1979 and turned into a nature reserve.
The island has been designated as a Class A Wildlife Refuge and is home to over 500 species of birds, including bald eagles, ospreys, and woodpeckers. The island is also popular for hiking, biking, and picnicking.
FAQs
1.What Is The History Of Swan Island?
Ans: Swan Island was once used by the city of Detroit as a dumping ground for industrial waste and toxic chemicals. Thankfully, it was purchased by the city in 1979 and turned into a nature reserve.
2.What Is Climate Like On Swan Island?
Ans: The climate on Swan island is temperate, with warm summers and cold winters. There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy sunshine throughout the year!
3.What Culture Is On Swan Island?
Ans: There are no people living on Swan Island, but the island has a lot of other cultures besides its wildlife. It was once used as an Ontario power plant and so it is also home to a lot of birds that rely on the food from plants such as grain.
4.Is There Anything Like Traffic Here?
Ans: There isn’t much traffic in any area around Swan Island because all major roads exist only within city limits.
5.Does Swan Island Have Any Government Services?
Ans: There is no government on the island. City Hall was once located there but has since moved to a new location just west of 8 Mile Road, near Lincoln Park zoo! There are also emergency services in Area D (on the west side of town).
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