A restored war-time Blockhouse on private Boblo Island faces uncertain access and preservation, raising concerns among local historians and residents.
Long Legacy on a Private Island
A historic 1839 British Blockhouse, restored through years of community-led work, now stands behind a fence on private Boblo Island — with uncertain access and future preservation raising alarms among heritage advocates and residents in Amherstburg, Ontario.
A Labour of Love Now Out of Reach
Retired schoolteacher and amateur historian Bill Brundage dedicated more than a decade to reviving the deteriorating Blockhouse, once used by British troops to defend against U.S. threats. Supported by volunteers and the late engineer Norm Becker, the restoration brought the crumbling structure back to life, uncovering artifacts and drawing in students on educational visits.
But Brundage can now only admire the site from a distance. As Boblo Island is a private residential enclave owned by developer Amico, only approved residents and visitors are allowed ferry access — and Brundage’s involvement has been restricted, citing safety and conservation concerns.
Private Ownership, Public Interest
Despite being a National Historic Site of Canada, the Blockhouse is currently inaccessible to the public. Amico representative Lisa Prince said future plans may include public ferry access and site visits, possibly within five years, once residential and commercial developments on the island are completed.
However, Brundage is doubtful he’ll see that day. He also expressed frustration that artifacts unearthed during restoration remain inside the Blockhouse and are not available for public display. Parks Canada responded that they’re best preserved on-site and not in individual possession.
Broader Heritage at Risk
Local historian Meg Reiner and Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue share Brundage’s concern. Beyond the Blockhouse, Boblo Island is home to several other historic structures — including an 1836 limestone lighthouse and remnants of a once-thriving amusement park.
While Parks Canada maintains the lighthouse externally, it is closed to the public. Reiner worries about “demolition by neglect” for buildings like the dance hall and theatre, which lack full heritage designation despite being noted as “properties of interest.”
Preservation Plans Under Scrutiny
Amico claims that the buildings are being maintained according to a provincially approved Heritage Plan, monitored by the Town of Amherstburg. However, Mayor Prue says visible signs of neglect persist, noting little to no restoration activity in recent years.
Prince counters this by stating ongoing efforts have been made and are in line with municipal heritage requirements. The town’s heritage planner confirmed that regular inspections and structural boarding are taking place.
A Call for Public Stewardship
Brundage believes public access and government stewardship are essential to safeguarding the island’s historical assets. Parks Canada, however, has declined involvement beyond the federally owned lighthouse, stating it is not in a position to acquire more assets on the island.
For Brundage and many others, the issue is not just about one building. It’s about a broader commitment to making Canada’s shared history accessible — and ensuring it is preserved, not privatized.
“This isn’t about me,” Brundage said. “It’s about keeping history alive — and sharing it.”
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