The Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre has received an incredible marine artifact donation: a Mackinaw boat called the Kayoshk. The name comes from the Ojibwe word gayasshk meaning “Seagull”.
Built around 1890 by James Falls of Wiarton, Kayoshk was later bought by Fred Millar for thirty dollars. Fred and his family sailed the boat in the Oliphant Regatta, winning multiple times and solidifying its place in local marine heritage.
When the boat was donated to the Museum in 2025, staff approached the Marine Heritage Society to help with the restoration of the Kayoshk. Society volunteers enthusiastically took on the project, contributing hundreds of hours to restore the boat back to her former glory. Their expertise and knowledge in traditional rigging played a vital role in the restoration process, particularly when setting up the sails.
The Kayoshk will be on permanent display at the Museum. Before the boat is in place, she will make some special appearances at the Friday Artisans and Tastes Market in Southampton, July 4,11, and 18.
The official unveiling of the Kayoshk will be announced shortly. Visit brucemuseum.ca and follow the Museum on Facebook for updates.
About the Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre: The Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre is situated within the traditional territory of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation (SON). We offer adult and children’s programming, exhibitions, special events and are home to the Bruce County Archives & Research Room. Our mandate is to preserve and make available the documentary heritage of Bruce County.
About the Marine Heritage Society: The Marine Heritage Society is dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of the marine history shoreline of Lake Huron in Bruce County. We conduct ourselves in an ethical, fun, and safe manner, as we aim to actively participate in and contribute to the local community. https://chantryisland.com/
