A Day in the Life of a Historical Interpreter

Blog Writer & Historical Interpreter,
Larry Ford

Ah, summer jobs! For those hardworking students who need seasonal employment what could be more enjoyable than working in front of a grill or filling up someone’s SUV. I’m not knocking either of the two jobs noted, but where I work you can dress up like someone from the past and be a doctor, a cook, a blacksmith, even a Jesuit priest! Such is the summer life of a historical interpreter at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, the reconstructed 17th century French Jesuit community just east of Midland, Ontario.  

While you have to wear heavy clothing in 30 degree weather, and you may be stuck in front of a fire, the biggest plus of the job are the people you meet from all over the world, who are interested in you and what you have to say. The majority of our audience are absolutely fascinated in hearing the story of two very different cultures, the French and the Wendat/Huron, how they interacted and what happened, both good and bad. We don’t pick sides. We try to balance the story and allow our visitors to draw conclusions, and most importantly learn about one of the most dramatic periods in Canadian history. 

Historical Interpreters are
chosen from all over Ontario

Oh, we may struggle making sagamité (a thick corn, porridge like soup that one historical Jesuit said looked like wallpaper paste), or making a twisted piece of metal we call a nail, or wearing a long black robe in the sun, our hands-on third person interpretation and story-telling have been very popular for nearly 50 years.

It’s time to go. I have a Grade 5 group from Pickering and the bus has just pulled up. Time for me to put on my beaver felt hat and lead my tour on a visit to the 17th century.

Whether you are with a school group, just dropping in, or if you are one of the lucky few who have the chance to work at Ontario’s first European community, get ready for an experience that is truly historical…a summer job second to none!

Muskoka Road Trip Via Highway 11: Discover Gravenhurst Gateway to Muskoka

Weekend Road Trip To Gravenhurst: Gateway to Muskoka

The most direct route to Gravenhurst is via Highway 11 north from Barrie.  See Muskoka Map. 

Gravenhurst:  Ontario Resort and Cottage Country

Stop for a picture on this Giant Muskoka Chair

The town of Gravenhurst sits on Lake Muskoka at the most southern part of the Muskoka Lakes.  More information on the resort town of  Gravenhurst.

The Muskoka Lakes are famous as one of Canada's premier resort and cottage destinations. Along with resorting and cottaging, fishing or angling boats and water sports have a special meaning. 

 

Where to stay in the Gravenhurst Area

Gravenhurst Resorts, B and B, Cottages

• Club Muskoka
• Bayview Wildwood Resort
• Eden Place Bed and Breakfast
• Taboo Resort, Golf and Spa

More information on the resort town of  Gravenhurst  

Bala Ontario-Side Trip

Photo by Alan Brown located on Highway 169 in Bala

Bala is famaous for the summer dining location of Lucy Maude Montgomery.  Her holiday inspired the novel, The Blue Castle at the Bala Museum.  The Bala Falls and the historic site identifying the Precambrian Shield (Canadian Shield) is a must stop.

Bala-Torrance Resorts and Cottages

• Black Lake Cabins
• Clear Lake Village Resort

 

FEATURED SPRING VACATION GETAWAYS NORTH OF TORONTO

FEATURED SPRING VACATION GETAWAYS NORTH OF TORONTO

Plan ahead for spring  and summer holidays, weekend getaways for  outdoor fun.  April will be warming up for spring hikes and maple syrup festival activities.. Questions Contact Us

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Romantic Ontario Getaway Pick

Ste. Anne's Spa - Grafton, Ontario

Ste. Anne's Spa Romeo & Julie From $750 per couple, per night. Allow the romance in your life to blossom with an all inclusive overnight stay at Ste. Anne's Spa for two people, voted Canada's Best Romantic Getaway by SpaFinder readers. Pamper yourselves from head to toe in the spa with a private couples massage and indulge all of your senses with the sweet taste of chocolate dipped strawberries which will be waiting in your room upon arrival. A wonderful gift for any occasion.

Couples Romantic Getaways north of Toronto 

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Spa Getaways in Ontario Pick

Bourget Inn & Spa Resort, The - Bourget, Ontario (Ottawa)

Bourget Inn & Spa Resort, The - You'll be treated to a full body massage, a personalized 1 hour facial, and a dead sea salt therapeutic bath. Plus you'll enjoy as much relaxing time as you like in our hot tub, sauna and steam room. 2 Night Spa Resort Getaway: 2 Nights at the Inn. 2 Full Gourmet Breakfasts. 1 Spa Lunch (cheese plate, chicken salad & homemade sorbet). 1 Gourmet 3 Course Dinner Including a Chocolate Fondue Dessert. 1 Aromatherapy Massage (90 minutes). 1 HydraScience AHD3 Facial (70 minutes). Use of the Hot Tub & Sauna. Access to the Inn & Grounds. Access to the Seasonal Pool & Patio. Gratuities on Hospitality & Meals Include. Rates: $477 - $547 per person, double occupancy. And don’t miss our Last Minute Weekend Getaway Deals for the coolest spa getaway specials.

Spa Getaways north of Toronto

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Family Vacation Getaway Pick

Beachwood Hollow Resort - Tweed, Ontario

Beachwood Hollow Resort - Family Getaways, Spring and Fall rates range from $294.00 to $542.00 tax included for regular weekends, (2 nights). Price varies on cottage size. Holiday Weekends range from $440.00 to $813.00 tax included for long weekends, (3 nights) Prices vary on cottage size. Weekly rates available in Spring and Fall, 20% off summer rates. Please see website for full pricing. Whether you are looking for a summer family vacation, family re-union or a getaway with friends we offer a pleasant atmosphere for relaxation.  We offer a groomed sandy swimming beach with gradual depth, boat launch, children’s play area, docks, lake water slide and raft, beach and lounge chairs to help make your vacation fun filled and worry free. Central to a large tourism area of Kingston, Ottawa, Peterborough and Toronto, there are many destinations within an hour’s drive: 1000 Islands Boat Tours, Peterborough Zoo shopping to name a few.  Within 15 minutes drive to: Golf, Skateboard/Splash Park, Conservation area and Hiking Trails.

Family Getaways in resort destinations

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Ontario Hiking Getaway Weekend Pick

Couples Resort, The - Algonquin Park - Whitney

Couples Resort, The- NOW 72% OFF. Runaway to Romance and Adventure! Spring 2013 – Spa Villa Cabin from $92 per person per night with dinner and Breakfast included in price. Private Cabin has extra large Jacuzzi in-front of the Wood Fireplace. Bathroom has private Sauna and Euro Steam Shower. Cabin is with King Bed. 1st Class Gourmet Dining. 5 Course Dinners Awarded a Top 10 Dining Experience by North American Inns.  Dinner and Breakfast Included in Prices. Wine Spectator Awarded Wine Cellar. $15 Wine Corkage Fee. Leading Spas of Canada approved Organic Algonquin Spa. Horseback riding at Algonquin Park and FREE Algonquin  Park Daily Pass. 48 Intimate lakefront accommodations, from 600 to 1500 sq ft each Jr. Suite or Cabin has a very large double Jacuzzi in front of the Wood Burning Fireplace, all with Private Decks overlooking the Lake. All accommodations exceed 5 Diamond rating standards.  Many are Opulent and furnished by The Art Shoppe of Toronto having their own Outdoor Hot Tub, Sauna, Steam Bath, Double Walk-in Shower with 4 Shower Heads and 50” Plasma TV.

Hiking Getaways north of Toronto

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Spring in Ontario Pick

Tally - Ho Inn - Huntsville, Ontario

Tally - Ho Inn Get-a-Way from the city for awhile at Tally - Ho Inn, Muskoka. Enjoy our lakeside cottages and home cooked meals. Most accommodation with wood burning fireplaces and some with Jacuzzi . Games room with ping pong, billiards, air hockey and darts or play a tune on the baby grand piano. After dinner curl up in front of your fireplace with your favourite book or watch tv.

Arpil Getaways north of Toronto

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Attractions Ontario Pick

Hardwood Ski and Bike - Oro Station, Ontario

Hardwood Ski and Bike - Hardwood Ski & Bike offers over 80km of mountain bike trails which rate as "Fun", "Gnarly", "Serious", "Radical","Crank'd", "Sprokids" and a double track trail "Nice n Easy", a favourite for all ages. Disc Golf Perfect for families and non-bikers to experience the best trail facility in Central Ontario.  Expansion to 18 Hole Disc Golf Course at Hardwood

Ontario Attractions north of Toronto

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Ontario Tourism Destination of the Week

Resorts of North Muskoka
(http://www.north-muskoka.com/accommodations.html)
Muskoka is widely recognized as one of Canada's most popular vacation spots. Whether it is a romantic getaway with someone special, a summer family vacation or special group gathering, the many choices of cottage resorts, inns and lodges make North Muskoka an excellent place to spend a holiday. The resorts in North Muskoka have been greeting guests for generations and are a true reflection of the Muskoka vacation experience. The North Muskoka directory features private and family owned accommodations offering: Accommodations only minutes from Algonquin Park, Huntsville and Lake of Bays. Family vacation packages and couples getaways. Weddings and conference venues. Casual restaurants and fine dining.

Ontario Resort Destinations north of Toronto

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VACATION MARCH BREAK GETAWAYS NORTH OF TORONTO

VACATION GETAWAYS NORTH OF TORONTO

Plan now for the end of winter March Break holiday season for the best getaways for cross-country skiing, downhill boarding and skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Questions? Contact Us

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Romantic Ontario Getaway Pick

Touchstone on Lake Muskoka - Bracebridge, Ontario

Touchstone on Lake Muskoka - Experience Muskoka Dining at its Finest January 1, 2013-December 30, 2013 Allow our expert culinary team at Taste Dining to awaken your taste buds with this all-inclusive accommodation package. This winter season, don't miss out on this great value to experience Touchstone on Lake Muskoka!

Couples Romantic Getaways north of Toronto 

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Spa in Ontario Pick

Cranberry Resort, The - Collingwood, Ontario

Cranberry Resort, The - Hot Stone Massage Relax and rejuvenate with a hot stone massage! Package includes: One night hotel accommodation (2 doubles, 2 queens, or 1 king bed, based on availability) One hour hot stone massage per person. Hot buffet breakfast per person. Package Starting at $295. Price per room; Subject to availability; Rates based on double occupancy; Applicable taxes and gratuities not included; Subject to change without notice

Spa Getaways north of Toronto

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Family Vacation Getaway Pick

Sandhaven Cottage - Haliburton, Ontario

Sandhaven Cottage is located on beautiful Lake Kashagawigamog, in the Haliburton Highlands. This newly renovated 1,900 sq. ft. vacation home has 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and new 1,200 sq. ft. cedar deck with Hot Tub for your relaxation. Excellent swimming, boating and fishing on this 5 lake chain. Loads of activities in area including 6 golf courses, miles of hiking/biking trails, skiing, snowmobiling, ATV trails and more. Visit www.sandhaven.ca for additional cottage info and photos.

Family Getaways in resort destinations

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Ontario Resorts Pick

Evergreen Forest Resort B&B - Georgian Bluffs, Ontario

Evergreen Forest Resort B&B - The Bruce Peninsula's hidden secret: Evergreen Forest Resort B&B! We offer VERY private accommodation AND seasonal fun: canoe-bike tours, dog-sledding, ski lessons, and dark sky astronomy! Have a GREAT time here for SO much less! We're probably just 2 or 3 hours from YOU right now; deep in the forest, FAR away from bright lights, among the whispering conifers. Sleep comes fast under a starry dome, as you snuggle into our 1020-count sheets. Year-round, we offer:

February Getaways north in Ontario

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Ontario SnowmobilingGetaway Weekend Pick

Bristlecone Lodge Resort - Dwight, Ontario

Bristlecone Lodge Resort Our resort is located on Sno 7 Route offering miles of excellent trails, in addition Back Country Tours is located 2 minutes away offering Snowmobile and ATV rentals and tours. We have ample parking for snowmobiles and trailers at the resort. Rates starting at $270.00+hst with discounts available on snowmobile rentals (Feb to April 1st),

Snowmobiling Getaways north of Toronto

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Winter in Ontario Pick

Sherwood Inn - Port Carling, Ontario

Sherwood Inn- Winter Weekend Special This winter visit Sherwood Inn for the perfect weekend getaway. Book a 2 night stay for Friday and Saturday night until  April 26, 2013 and receive 50% off Friday night of your stay and receive late check-out on Sunday morning of 1 pm. This special is perfect for those who want a getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city, and want to escape to a peaceful winter wonderland.

Winter Getaways north of Toronto

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Attractions Ontario Pick

Snow Valley Resort - Minesing ON

Snow Valley Resort - Stay & Play Barrie Ski & Snowtube Packages. Plan a Family Getaway! Located just 5 min west of Barrie we are just a short distance to all the shopping, dining and accomadations you come to expect on your ski, board or tube getaway. We have numeous "stay & play" packages available through a number of local hotels. Packages start at just $54.50 (pp/dbl occupancy) and includes 1 night accomodation, breakfast and a ski or snowtubing pass.

Ontario Attractions north of Toronto

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Ontario Tourism Destination of the Week

Algonquin Highlands Trails (http://www.algonquinhighlands.ca/)
Where Adventure Awaits!
~ Haliburton Highlands Water Trails – Frost Centre and Poker Lakes
~ Frost Centre Ski and Snowshoe Trails
~ Backcountry Camping, Canoeing and Kayaking
~ Canoe, Ski and Snowshoe Rentals
~ 38kms of Hiking Trails, Hundreds of kms of Snowmobile and ATV trails
~ Excellent fishing for Trout, Bass and Whitefish
~ Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower – Best view of Fall colors in the highlands!
~ Ontario’s only full size historic Log chute
~ Group of Seven Outdoor Murals
~ Dorset Snowball Winter Carnival
Just 2.5hrs from Toronto, in the heart of the Haliburton Highlands
Visit www.algonquinhighlands.ca Call 705-766-9033 for info

Ontario Resort Destinations north of Toronto

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Ontario Cottage Resort Pick

Algonquin Woods - Emsdale, Ontario

Algonquin Woods - Your family lakeside Cottage Resort near Algonquin Park and Huntsville, Muskoka, Ontario. 10 clean, cozy cottages and a small campground on beautiful Clear Lake. Most have magnificent views of the water. Activities include a wide variety of water craft free for guest use, horseshoes, ping pong, shuffleboard, Rave Bongo (July & August) & lakeside campfire with wood provided. First class golf nearby. For the winter we are close to downhill and cross country skiing, dogsledding, snowshoeing, skating, horse drawn carriage rides, ice fishing and other activities. In the fall our magnificent fall colours can not be beaten.

Ontario Cottage Resorts north of Toronto

Ontario's Big Attractions Romantic Travel Fun

"Big Things" To See on Road Trips In Ontario

Explore Ontario's Jumbo Landmarks

The Big Muskoka Chair in Gravenhurst...r.taylor

The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport wants Ontario residents to  stay-cation in their own province and visit some of the province's larger-than-life landmarks and monuments.

• Wawa's Canadian Goose -- even taller than the T-Rex on display at the ROM.
• Kenora's Husky the Muskie -- muskies eat bait up to 30 per cent of their length -- meaning 'Husky' would go for bait as big as a fishing boat (12ft).
• Sudbury's Big Nickel -- the world's largest coin is 30-feet tall or as tall as a stack of 5,196 nickels -- that's almost $260
• The Haliburton Sculpture Forest in the Village of Haliburton
•  Midland Ontario:  Giant Murals on Georgian Bay 
•  

Midland Murals on Georgian Bay Ontario

Supporting Ontario's tourism sector is part of the Ontario government's plan to build vibrant local communities while strengthening the economy and creating jobs for families.

See Ontario towns and cities for tourism related activities north of Toronto GTA.

Access areas north of Toronto GTA via Highway 400.  The summer season offers up a number of  romantic road trip suggestions for the perfect romantic getaway in Ontario's cottage and resort destinations. 

LEARN MORE

• 'Big Things' Grow In Ontario
• Plan your Ontario getaway north of Toronto GTA.
• Learn more about events, sites and people in Ontario's history.

Last Minute: Festivals of Lights Wind Down in 2012

Festival of Lights

Barrie Festival of Trees and Lights

Until Spring 2012
Barrie lights up along Kempenfelt Bay's Lakeshore Drive on Lake Simcoe  See the Barrie Festival of Trees and Lights where some of the 50,000 lights which form the Festival of Trees Display at Centennial Park will be five animated displays.  Barrie hotels, resorts.

Upper Canada Village's Alight at Night FestivalMorrisburg, ON
December 2, 2011-January 7, 2012Stroll around historic Upper Canada Village, adorned with a quarter million lights. Horse-drawn wagons, carriage rides for two, Toy Train rides for kids of all ages, skating, dining, shopping &more!
Upper Canada’s Village web Site
stay at resorts, inns, hotels Ottawa, ON Ottawa hotels on-line

Christmas Lights Across Canada’s Capital Region

December 1, 2011 - January 7, 2012
Parliament Hill, 20 NCC sites and over 60 other sites along Confederation Boulevard will sparkle with more than 300,000 dazzling lights during the Holiday Season. On opening night, join us on Parliament Hill at 6pm for the illumination ceremony.
Christmas Lights Across Canada website info
stay at , resorts, inns, hotels Ottawa, ON Ottawa hotels on-line

Festival of Northern Lights Catch The Magic
Owen Sound
November 18, 2011 to January 3, 2012
Owen Sound has a History of Local resident Sally Sargent was quoted in a past Sun Times article as saying it was fairly easy to determine who worked for Noma Lites during the 1950s and early '60s in Owen Sound. “You'd be able to drive down the street and see all of the homes all lit up with lights and you would know they worked at Noma. . . . You'd almost have to wear sunglasses when you went by some of the houses.”
Festival of Northern Lights web Site
stay at resorts, inns, hotels Owen Sound, ON