A Millionaire’s Farm Cottage?

George Boldt's Wellesley House stood as a reminder of the grandeur and ambition of the Gilded Age. While often overshadowed by the more renowned Boldt Castle on Heart Island, Wellesley House offered a fascinating glimpse into the life and legacy of the hotel magnate George C. Boldt.

In the late 19th century, George C. Boldt, the proprietor of New York City's Waldorf-Astoria Hotel and Philadelphia's Bellevue-Stratford Hotel, began acquiring land on Wellesley Island. His vision was to create a summer retreat that mirrored the opulence and sophistication of his urban establishments as well as provide for his hotels. 

By 1899, Boldt had purchased several hundred acres of farmland from the Cornwall brothers, laying the foundation for what would become the Wellesley House estate. Though Mrs. Boldt called it their “summer cottage,” it was no ordinary dwelling. During the building of Boldt Castle, George and Louise stayed in the Wellesley House, making it a centerpiece for Madison’s Mission. 

Wellesley House had over fifty rooms, the mansion featured intricate architectural details and was strategically positioned along a man-made canal between Wellesley Island and Tennis Island. This canal, a remarkable feat of engineering, was approximately two miles long, seventy feet wide, and ten feet deep, facilitating direct access to Lake Waterloo. The canal's construction involved extensive dredging and blasting through solid rock, reflecting Boldt's commitment to creating a seamless and luxurious environment.  

The Wellesley House estate was also a hub of agricultural innovation and social activity. Boldt established modern stables and raised high-quality stock, supplying his hotels with fresh produce and dairy products directly from his Wellesley Island farms. The estate eventually featured a golf course, tennis courts, and meticulously landscaped gardens, offering guests a plethora of recreational activities. 

Nearby the Wellesley House was the Boldt Yacht House on the northeastern shore of Wellesley Island. Completed in 1903, this shingle-style structure housed the Boldt family's fleet of yachts and boats. The yacht house is a beauty in itself with towering bay doors, a workshop for building racing launches, and accommodations for crew and staff. Today, it stands as the only remaining wooden yacht house of its kind and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 

Following the untimely death of Louise Boldt in 1904, construction on Boldt Castle ceased, and George Boldt's focus shifted to his Wellesley Island properties. The Wellesley House continued to serve as a cherished family retreat and a place for entertaining distinguished guests. Over the years, the estate changed hands but remained a symbol of the lavish lifestyle and visionary pursuits of George C. Boldt.  

ABOUT MADISON’S MISSION:

Step into the captivating world of Boldt Castle in 1903, where dreams are forged in the fires of adversity and love. Madison Murray, maid to Louise Boldt, harbors a singular mission—to care for her ailing mistress while hiding her own painful past. She meets Emmett O’Connor, but just as their relationship grows, tragedy shatters their world, and Madison is ensnared in a dangerous coverup. When Mrs. Boldt passes away, Madison is left reeling, can she move forward? Will Emmett forge a future alongside the woman who has captured his heart?

ABOUT SUSAN:

Susan G Mathis is an international award-winning, multi-published author of stories set in the beautiful Thousand Islands in upstate NY. Susan has been published more than thirty times in full-length novels, novellas, and non-fiction books. She has fourteen in her fiction line. Susan is also a published author of two premarital books, stories in a dozen compilations, and hundreds of published articles. Susan lives in Colorado Springs and enjoys traveling the world. Visit www.SusanGMathis.com/fiction for more.

America's First It-Girl

Before there were movie stars, fashionistas, and influencers, there was the Gibson Girl—a pen-and-ink phenomenon who captivated America at the turn of the 20th century. Tall, poised, stylish, and independent, she was the idealized image of modern womanhood created by illustrator Charles Dana Gibson.

But she was more than a drawing. She was a cultural icon who both reflected and shaped the aspirations of a generation of women.

A New Kind of Beauty

The Gibson Girl made her debut in the 1890s, gracing the pages of Life, Collier’s, and Harper’s Weekly. She reflected the era’s beauty ideal: a slim waist shaped by a swan-bill corset, an elegant S-curve silhouette, and voluminous updos like pompadours or chignons.

Unlike the fragile Victorian ideal of earlier decades, the Gibson Girl exuded self-assurance. She wasn’t a suffragist or a radical, but she was unmistakably modern. Often shown in fashionable outfits that signaled her upper-middle-class status, she embraced outdoor activities like cycling, valued education, and sometimes even entered the workforce.

 

AT THE OPERA

 

 

 

 

 

He fails to take a friendly interest in the great composers

ADVICE TO BEGINNERS

 

 

Keep close to nature.

Brains, Beauty, and a Bit of Attitude

Gibson’s illustrations captured women who were witty, spirited, and just a little aloof. They towered over bumbling suitors, debated politics with charm, and weren’t afraid to scoff at convention. These images suggested that beauty and brains could coexist—a bold notion at the time.

"The don't even know 'Tommy Atkins'"

Under the Microscope: The Weaker Sex

Fashion designers embraced the look. High collars, flowing skirts, and the famous Gibson hairstyle quickly became all the rage. As women stepped into new roles as students, workers, and athletes they carried her image with them. She was part fantasy, part aspiration, and very influential.

The Women Behind the Drawings

Many women served as inspiration for Gibson Girl illustrations, including Charles Dana Gibson’s own wife, Irene Langhorne (pictured below, far left), who is often considered one of the earliest muses. She was also the sister of Nancy Langhorne Astor, the first woman to take a seat in the British Parliament. Other notable models included actresses and performers such as Mabel Normand, Evelyn Nesbit (pictured middle), Minnie Clark, and Clara B. Fayette. The most iconic of them all was stage actress Camille Clifford (pictured far right), whose towering hairstyle, sweeping gowns, and tightly corseted figure came to embody the classic Gibson Girl look.

Enter the Christy Girl: Color, Energy, and Modern Appeal

Building on Gibson’s legacy, artist Howard Chandler Christy introduced the Christy Girl—a vibrant, athletic evolution of the Gibson Girl.

While Gibson’s pen-and-ink drawings were designed for the black-and-white printing of late 19th-century magazines, Christy rose to fame just as color printing technology improved. He embraced watercolor and oils, producing dazzling full-color posters and magazine covers that leapt off the page.

The public responded enthusiastically. His vivid use of color captivated the imagination even more, bringing his idealized heroines to life in a way that felt fresh, patriotic, and unforgettable.

Post cards from 1906-1910 featuring Christy's paintings

More Than a Pretty Face 

By the 1910s, with the rise of the suffrage movement and the looming shadow of World War I, the Gibson Girl began to fade. She was soon replaced by new icons like the flapper, who represented a bolder and more rebellious spirit.

In the end, the Gibson Girl wasn’t just a pretty face. She was a symbol of transition—a graceful bridge between the corseted constraints of the past and the freer spirit of the new century. She proved that a woman could be charming and clever, poised and opinionated.

And though she never spoke a word, she started a conversation that echoed long after the ink dried.

(Photo credits: All photos of Gibson and Christy works: ©KimberlyKeagan.com. All other photos courtesy of Wikipedia.)

About the Author:

 

 

Kimberly Keagan is a former corporate financial writer (not very romantic) who now crafts historical romances filled with strong heroines, swoon-worthy heroes, faith, and a touch of humor. Her Gilded Age romance, Perfect, is her debut novel.

Lighthouses in the Thousand Islands

by Susan G Mathis

The Thousand Islands, nestled in the St. Lawrence River between the United States and Canada, is a breathtaking archipelago that boasts stunning landscapes, rich history, and a unique maritime culture. Among its many treasures are the lighthouses that have guided sailors and adventurers through these waters for centuries. These iconic structures not only serve as navigational aids but also as symbols of the region’s maritime heritage. Join us as we explore some of the most notable lighthouses in the Thousand Islands, uncovering their history and significance. My three-book lighthouse series, Love at a Lighthouse, highlights three of them.

Tibbetts Point Lighthouse, built in 1854, is located at the northern tip of the Thousand Islands in Cape Vincent. Standing at 67 feet tall, it was constructed to guide vessels into the St. Lawrence River and into Lake Ontario. This historic lighthouse is known for its stunning architecture and scenic location. The lighthouse is accessible to visitors, with a small park area surrounding it. While the lighthouse is no longer operational, the site offers beautiful views of the river and Lake Ontario. The nearby Tibbetts Point Lighthouse Park provides picnic areas, a gift shop, a fog horn museum, and a perfect spot for families and tourists to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Sister Island Lighthouse was built in 1838 and is one of the oldest lighthouses in the Thousand Islands. With its classic octagonal shape and picturesque setting, this lighthouse was critical in guiding vessels through the St. Lawrence River during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Although the lighthouse is not open for tours, visitors can view the island by boat. 

Rock Island Lighthouse was constructed in 1895, built to help ships navigate the often-treacherous waters of the St. Lawrence River. Standing at 29 feet tall, the lighthouse is known for its distinct white and red colors, which make it a recognizable landmark for mariners. Accessible only by boat, Rock Island Lighthouse is a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the natural beauty of the area. The lighthouse is part of the Rock Island State Park, offering hiking trails and picnic areas for a perfect day out. Climbing to the top provides breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and the river.

The lighthouses of the Thousand Islands are not just navigational aids; they are a portray the region’s rich maritime history and enduring charm. Each lighthouse has its own unique story, contributing to the captivating tapestry of the Thousand Islands. Whether you’re an avid maritime history enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape in nature, these lighthouses offer something for everyone. 

Have you explored the Thousand Islands? Leave your answer or comments on the post below and join me on February 19th for my next post. 

ABOUT LOVE AT A LIGHTHOUSE SERIES:

The three-book series includes: Libby’s Lighthouse, Julia’s Joy, and Emma’s Engagement

Join the Row-family women, Libby, Julia, and Emma, as they navigate the isolation, danger, and hope for lasting love at three Thousand Island lighthouses—Tibbetts, Sister, and Rock Island—in the St. Lawrence River.

ABOUT SUSAN:

Susan G Mathis is an international award-winning, multi-published author of stories set in the beautiful Thousand Islands in upstate NY. Susan has been published more than thirty times in full-length novels, novellas, and non-fiction books. She has fourteen in her fiction line. Susan is also a published author of two premarital books, stories in a dozen compilations, and hundreds of published articles. Susan lives in Colorado Springs and enjoys traveling the world. Visit www.SusanGMathis.com/fiction for more.

Shopping on the Ladies’ Mile

 By Suzanne Norquist

One hundred years before teens started hanging out at the mall, women took carriages and the elevated train to socialize and shop on the “Ladies’ Mile” in New York City.

The end of the 1800s was known as the Gilded Age—a time of great prosperity. The rich flaunted their wealth, and the middle class could afford more than ever before. With the Industrial Revolution in full swing, an abundance of mass-produced goods filled store shelves.

Massive department stores sprouted in major cities around the world. Each one could have been a modern mall in itself. Not only did they offer shopping, but their restaurants and tea rooms provided places for socializing.

New York’s high society moved uptown, creating a shopping district on Fifth Avenue. In 1860, when the Prince of Wales stayed at a Fifth Avenue hotel, everyone knew the area was fit for royalty.

In 1862, A.T. Steward relocated his department store to the area and built a massive six-story structure known as the Iron Palace. With a cast-iron construction, massive windows filled with displays lined the street. The use of cast iron instead of bricks made such large window openings possible.

This building served as a tourist attraction and anchored the “Ladies’ Mile” located between Fourteenth and Twenty-Third Streets along Sixth Avenue and Broadway.

Entertainment venues also moved to the area. In 1866, Steinway constructed a concert hall nearby. The building also housed a piano sales floor.

In 1869, Arnold Constable and Company entered the market with high-end fashions. Their building, referred to as “The Palace of Trade” by the newspapers, was the second-largest dry-goods store in the city at the time.

That same year, Tiffany & Company constructed a building with 16-foot cast-iron arches. Known as the “Palace of Jewels,” it was the largest jewelry store in the world.

With such a concentration of businesses and their associated security staff, the area was considered safe for ladies without male escorts. A woman could spend the day with her friends shopping, eating, and socializing—much like teens at a shopping mall.

The district grew with the arrival of Lord and Taylor in 1870. This massive iron building also sported large glass display windows. In fact, Lord and Taylor pioneered Christmas window displays for marketing—a New York tradition.

The “Ladies Mile” shopping district drew in most customers by carriage, but in 1878, the elevated train (the El) arrived, making it easier for middle-class ladies to access the experience.

Other businesses got into the action. Best and Co., specializing in children’s clothing, went in. They were the first to have separate departments for boys and girls, as well as for different accessories.

The prestigious furniture and home décor store W & J Sloan located there in 1882. And the Gorham Silver Company, which sold jewelry, tableware, and other silver items, added an opulent Queen Anne-style building in 1884.

The result was “block after block of glittering ladies’ stores” as described in the book Time and Again, by Jack Finney. The district became a cultural icon.

After World War I, the wealthy of New York society moved farther away from the masses, and the businesses followed. The Guided Age ended, and society changed.

Today’s teenagers think they invented the mall culture. However, over a hundred years ago, women clustered, no doubt creating their own fond memories of days spent on the “Ladies' Mile”.

***

 

”Mending Sarah’s Heart” in the Thimbles and Threads Collection

Four historical romances celebrating the arts of sewing and quilting.

Mending Sarah’s Heart by Suzanne Norquist

Rockledge, Colorado, 1884

Sarah seeks a quiet life as a seamstress. She doesn’t need anyone, especially her dead husband’s partner. If only the Emporium of Fashion would stop stealing her customers, and the local hoodlums would leave her sons alone. When she rejects her husband’s share of the mine, his partner Jack seeks to serve her through other means. But will his efforts only push her further away?

 

Suzanne Norquist is the author of two novellas, “A Song for Rose” in A Bouquet of Brides Collection and “Mending Sarah’s Heart” in the Thimbles and Threads Collection. Everything fascinates her. She has worked as a chemist, professor, financial analyst, and even earned a doctorate in economics. Research feeds her curiosity, and she shares the adventure with her readers. She lives in New Mexico with her mining engineer husband and has two grown children. When not writing, she explores the mountains, hikes, and attends kickboxing class.

 

Thousand Island Park Camp Meetings

 

By Susan G Mathis

The Thousand Island Park Camp Meeting Association was founded by the Rev. John Ferdinand Dayan, in 1875, as a Methodist summer camp with regular meetings, sermons, and public services. They leased spots for tents or cottages and provided most of the conveniences of city living but without its vices. TI Park was called, “The Chautauqua of the North.”

In 1883, the Park moved away from the family-oriented camp and opened it to a more general public. But they still kept several of their rules like observing the Sabbath.

The Park continued to grow, so by 1894, nearly six hundred cottages plus hotels created a summer village that included a library, yacht club, golf course, roque courts, annual tennis tournaments, daily concerts, an art school, its own printer, a needlecraft shop, fishing guides and boats, a book shop, a photographer…and Sunday services.

By the turn of the century, in 1900, the Park had become a full summer community with a library and all the amenities a full-service resort would provide including insurance companies, printer, needlecraft shop, shoe store, hand-blown glass souvenirs, a china maker, hand laundress, hair and manicurist, Japanese bazaar, Persian and Turkish rugs, general store, meat market, milk, ice, plumber, contractors, barber, boat livery, fishing guides, tailor, Indian basket shop, candy store and more. Yet it still retained a tight-knit, small town warmth and vitality.

Besides hundreds of lovely Victorian cottages, the Columbian Hotel and the Wellesley Hotel (which still exists today), and smaller hotels made up of various cottages were open to the public. The smaller hotels such as the Geneva, the Pratt House, and the Rochester as well as boarding houses each had a separate function.

Today, Thousand Island Park is still a lovely summer community full of gingerbread Victorians and friendly people. The community retains its homey, small town feel and offers lots of fun things to do. It’s a great place to visit in the summertime, and it’s a wonderful place to tell the story of the 1912 fires in Mary’s Moment.

Have you been to a Christian camp? Leave your answer or comments on the post below and join me on February 19th for my next post.

ABOUT MARY’S MOMENT:

It’s 1912, and Thousand Island Park’s switchboard operator Mary Flynn is the community heroine saving dozens of homes from a terrible fire. Less than a month later, when another disastrous fire rages through the Park, Mary loses her memory as she risks her life in a neighbor's burning cottage. Widowed fireman George Flannigan is enamored by the brave raven-haired lass and takes every opportunity to connect with Mary. But he has hidden griefs of his own that cause him great heartache. When George can’t stop the destructive Columbian Hotel fire from eradicating more than a hundred businesses and homes, he is distraught. Yet George’s greater concern is Mary. Will she remember their budding relationship or be forever lost to him?

ABOUT SUSAN:

Susan G Mathis is an international award-winning, multi-published author of stories set in the beautiful Thousand Islands in upstate NY. Susan has been published more than thirty times in full-length novels, novellas, and non-fiction books. She has fourteen in her fiction line. Susan is also a published author of two premarital books, stories in a dozen compilations, and hundreds of published articles. Susan lives in Colorado Springs and enjoys traveling the world. Visit www.SusanGMathis.com/fiction for more.

Toys of the 1900s - From Wooden Tops to Whirligigs

By Susan G Mathis

At the turn of the 20th century, children's playtime was filled with the simple joys of handmade toys. In 1900, an array of charming and timeless playthings captivated the imagination of youngsters across the globe. From the humble wooden tops to the whimsical jumping jack man, these toys were not just sources of entertainment but also treasured artifacts of a bygone era.

Wooden tops were a ubiquitous sight in the hands of children during the early 1900s. Crafted from wood and often hand-painted with vibrant colors, these spinning marvels were propelled into action with the help of a string and a quick twist of the fingers.

Games of chance and skill were prevalent in the 1900s, with dice and teetotum being popular choices. Wooden dice were used in various games that tested luck and strategy. The teetotum, a spinning top with numbered sides, added an element of unpredictability to games, making them both entertaining and educational.

The yo-yo, with its timeless appeal, quickly became a sensation. The whirligig, a delightful and whimsical toy consisting of a spinning propeller mounted on a stick, the whirligig was set in motion by the wind or a twirling motion from the child.

The bilbo catcher, a skill-based toy, challenged children to improve their hand-eye coordination. Consisting of a wooden cup attached to a handle by a string, players aimed to catch a small wooden ball in the cup as it swung back and forth. The bilbo catcher not only entertained but also honed motor skills, making it a valuable plaything for development.

The jumping jack man added a touch of theatricality to playtime. Comprising a jointed figure attached to strings, pulling a cord caused the limbs to move, creating a whimsical dance. The jumping jack man brought a sense of animation to the toy box, allowing children to bring their imaginations to life. In A Summer at Thousand Island House, the children play with these toys.

What’s your favorite childhood toy? Leave your answer or comments on the post below and join me on February 19th for my next post.

ABOUT A SUMMER AT THOUSAND ISLAND HOUSE

Addison Bell serves children of the Thousand Island House guests on Staple’s Island. While thriving in her work, Addi’s vivacity attracts the attention of the recreation pavilion’s manager, Liam Donovan, as well as the handsome Navy Officer Lt. Worthington, a lighthouse inspector, hotel patron, and single father of mischievous little Jimmy. When Jimmy goes missing while in Addi’s care and former President Chester Arthur finds the child a stowaway on his fishing boat, her job and reputation are endangered. How can she calm the churning waters of Liam, Lt. Worthington, and the President, clear her name, and avoid becoming the scorn of the community?

ABOUT SUSAN

Susan G Mathis is an international award-winning, multi-published author of stories set in the beautiful Thousand Islands in upstate NY. Susan has been published more than thirty times in full-length novels, novellas, and non-fiction books. She has fourteen in her fiction line. Susan is also a published author of two premarital books, stories in a dozen compilations, and hundreds of published articles. Susan lives in Colorado Springs and enjoys traveling the world. Visit www.SusanGMathis.com/fiction for more.

A Day in the Life of a Lightkeeper

By Susan G Mathis 

Lighthouse keepers had many duties including maintaining the lighthouse, ensuring the light was operational, and assisting with navigation. Their job was 24/7, but they also had many perks including a peaceful existence in nature’s bountiful beauty. Here’s a look at a day in the life of a lightkeeper.

Early Morning

As the sun rises over the St. Lawrence River, the first rays of light illuminate the lighthouse, signaling the keeper to snuff out the light and head to bed for a few hours of precious sleep… unless there’s a storm brewing, family needing him (or her), or another emergency.

Midday Tasks

After a few hours of sleep, the keeper’s duties might include a hearty lunch before turning to maintenance tasks. This could involve repairing the lighthouse’s exterior, tending to the garden, or clearing pathways for visitors. The keeper also needs to be vigilant about the weather, documenting changes that could affect navigation. On days with good weather, the keeper may even take the opportunity to explore the island, appreciating its natural beauty and solitude.

Later in the afternoon, the keeper might host visitors, sharing the lighthouse’s history and its significance in the region’s maritime safety. Engaging with visitors is a rewarding aspect of the job, allowing the keeper to share stories of life on the island and the challenges faced over the years.

As the sun sets, the lighthouse keeper prepares for the night shift. This includes cleaning the lens again, checking the oil, and ensuring everything is in order for the night ahead. The keeper often watches the sunset over the river, a breathtaking sight that never gets old.

As darkness falls, the keeper lights the beacon, its glow cutting through the night. This is a solitary yet fulfilling time, with the keeper listening to the sounds of the night—waves crashing, the wind rustling through the trees, and the distant calls of wildlife. The light beams across the water, providing safety to vessels navigating the river. All three of my lighthouse stories take you into this life of a lightkeeper…and his love.

Have you ever had a nightshift job? Leave your answer or comments on the post below and join me on February 19th for my next post. 

ABOUT EMMA’S ENGAGEMENT

Book 3 of the Love in a Lighthouse series:

Emma Row yearns to build a loving family. But becoming the Rock Island Lightkeeper's wife brings treacherous waters of isolation and the bitter rejection of her new stepdaughter, Ada. Michael Diepolder, the widowed lightkeeper, had hoped marriage would simplify life but realizes that the path to happiness is far more turbulent than he ever anticipated. Emma and Michael must confront the tempestuous waves of doubt, jealousy, and isolation that threaten to extinguish the light of their love. Can they weather the storm and find the strength to keep their family together, or will the darkness consume them all?

ABOUT SUSAN:

Susan G Mathis is an international award-winning, multi-published author of stories set in the beautiful Thousand Islands in upstate NY. Susan has been published more than thirty times in full-length novels, novellas, and non-fiction books. She has fourteen in her fiction line. Susan is also a published author of two premarital books, stories in a dozen compilations, and hundreds of published articles. Susan lives in Colorado Springs and enjoys traveling the world. Visit www.SusanGMathis.com/fiction for more.

 

Lighthouse Keeper’s Duties

By Susan G Mathis

Nestled in the heart of the Thousand Islands, the Rock Island Lighthouse stands proudly as a beacon of history and resilience. But beyond its picturesque exterior and stunning views, the lighthouse tells a story of those who dedicated their lives to keeping its light shining: the lighthouse keepers. Imagine living in a serene, remote setting surrounded by the beauty of the St. Lawrence River, while also shouldering the responsibility of guiding boats safely through treacherous waters.

Traditionally, lighthouse keepers were responsible for maintaining the lighthouse, ensuring the light was operational, and assisting with navigation. While modern technology has automated many of these functions, the role of a lighthouse keeper was once a vital and respected profession.

The lightkeeper had many tasks that included:

• Maintaining the Light: This involved regularly checking and cleaning the lens and ensuring the light source was functional.

• Weather Monitoring: Keepers monitored weather conditions, which were crucial for safe navigation on the river. They often kept logs of weather patterns and visibility.

• Daily Upkeep: Routine maintenance of the lighthouse and its surrounding areas was essential. This included painting, cleaning, and repairing structures to withstand the elements.

• Communication: Lighthouse keepers often communicated with passing ships, offering guidance and information about local hazards.

• Visitor Engagement: In more recent years, keepers have also played a role in welcoming visitors, sharing stories of the lighthouse’s history and significance.

Being a lighthouse keeper is not without its challenges. The isolation can be daunting, especially during harsh winters when access to the island may be limited. Keepers must be self-sufficient, ready to tackle any issues that arise without immediate help. But the rewards far outweigh the challenges. The beauty of nature surrounding Rock Island Lighthouse is unparalleled. The tranquility and connection to history create a profound sense of purpose. Keepers often forge a deep bond with the land and water, embracing the rhythms of nature in a way few people experience.

Life as a lighthouse keeper at Rock Island Lighthouse is a unique blend of solitude, responsibility, and connection to nature. It is a life dedicated to service, preserving a vital part of maritime history while providing safety to those navigating the waters. While modern advancements have transformed the role of lighthouse keepers, the spirit of their commitment to safeguarding lives and guiding vessels remains a cherished legacy. Whether through the lens of a light or the warmth of a welcoming smile, the essence of a lighthouse keeper continues to shine bright in the Thousand Islands.

Have you toured a lighthouse? Leave your answer or comments on the post below and join me on February 19th for my next post.

ABOUT EMMA’S ENGAGEMENT

Book 3 of the Love in a Lighthouse series:

Emma Row yearns to build a loving family. But becoming the Rock Island Lightkeeper's wife brings treacherous waters of isolation and the bitter rejection of her new stepdaughter, Ada. Michael Diepolder, the widowed lightkeeper, had hoped marriage would simplify life but realizes that the path to happiness is far more turbulent than he ever anticipated. Emma and Michael must confront the tempestuous waves of doubt, jealousy, and isolation that threaten to extinguish the light of their love. Can they weather the storm and find the strength to keep their family together, or will the darkness consume them all?

ABOUT SUSAN:

Susan G Mathis is an international award-winning, multi-published author of stories set in the beautiful Thousand Islands in upstate NY. Susan has been published more than thirty times in full-length novels, novellas, and non-fiction books. She has fourteen in her fiction line. Susan is also a published author of two premarital books, stories in a dozen compilations, and hundreds of published articles. Susan lives in Colorado Springs and enjoys traveling the world. Visit www.SusanGMathis.com/fiction for more.