My Dad built a houseboat in our backyard in the Okanagan from one of those Popular Mechanics' plans around 1960.
Two British Seagull two strokes, so you get the idea of the power - on calm, inland water.
Imagine coming to Midland on the rough waters of Georgian Bay and discovering a long history of houseboats. Not 24 feet, like Dad’s, but way bigger.
Way bigger.
The Osborne & Ferrier House Boat and Supply Company operated quite a number of substantial size House Boats in Midland circa 1908. All fully outfitted with the period fittings of an Edwardian home. These behemoths could accommodate as many as 25 people.
Six House Boats were out for rental, with cooks and guides and furnished as required. The Steamship Maud D was in operation hauling the House Boats to quiet bays up the shore.
They knew how to live in those days as these were, in effect, party boats for lumbermen or fishermen.
René Hackstetter Dec.16, 2021.
.jpeg;w=120;h=80;mode=crop)