Monday, September 22, 2008

Roche Harbor, San Juan Island






September 22nd: Sailed (with wind!!) from Sidney to Roche Harbor, WA, about 12 miles across busy Haro Strait, which is a busy shipping channel. Roche Harbor dates to the 1880's, when it was a lime processing and shipping center. The original 1886 hotel has been restored, and is pictured above. It is now part of an extensive resort. By the way, Teddie Roosevelt, a longtime friend of the owner of the limestone plant, stayed at the hotel in 1906, and his signature in the guestbook is on display there.

John McMillan, the limestone industrialist, created an very elaborate mausoleum for himself and his family, which is situated on the resort's grounds. The ashes of family members are interred in the chairs surrounding the limestone table enclosed by columns pictured here. I think the guy may have had an ego.

Sidney, Vancouver Island







September 21st: Sailed from Brentwood to Sidney, which is located on the east side of the Saanich Peninsula on Vancouver Island. We navigated some treacherous waters with narrow passes, hidden rocks and strong currents. Thank heavens for GPS!!

Spent the afternoon exploring Sidney, with its very nice downtown which features many art galleries and bookstores.