Every summer thousands of Central New Yorkers head north to the 1000 Islands region to camp, boat and fish. One of the most popular attractions is Boldt Castle on Heart Island which, according to YNN, just opened for the season this past weekend. The castle is open daily through October and has a colorful history.

Beginning in 1900, the Boldt family spent summers in the 1000 Islands at the Boldt Families Wellesley House near Mr. Boldt’s Wellesley Island Farms while 300 workers including stonemasons, carpenters, and artists fashioned the six story, 120 room castle, complete with tunnels, a powerhouse, Italian gardens, a drawbridge, alster tower (children’s playhouse) and a dove cote. Not a single detail or expense was spared.In January 1904, tragedy struck. Boldt telegraphed the island and commanded the workers to immediately “stop all construction.” Louise had died suddenly. A broken hearted Boldt could not imagine his dream castle without his beloved. Boldt never returned to the island, leaving behind the structure as a monument of his love.

via History : Official Boldt Castle Website – Alexandria Bay NY in the Heart of the 1000 Islands.

There is nothing that can compare to a visit to this fascinating castle but in case you can't make the trip or are planning to go and want a preview check out this video tour.

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