Farms
Settlement of Wolfe and Simcoe Islands has resulted in a pattern of fields, clusters of farm buildings and occasional woodlots. Changing farming practices such as, consolidation of fields and wrapping of round hay bales are increasingly resulting in removal of fences and hedgerows and leaving old wooden barns unused and in decay.
Farmers are nothing if not pragmatic. Farm buildings tell the story of changing needs and cost effective decisions regarding functional relationships and building materials. So in addition to the much larger open field pattern, the remaining farm building clusters of old barns and sheds are being supplemented or replaced with pre-fabricated steel buildings and fabric structures. |
Village
The patterns of settlement in Marysville village are similar to the organization of farm buildings. While one of the characteristics of a village is ample space between buildings with mature trees and gardens, the homes in Marysville often have several additions and several outbuildings, most with pitched roofs and wood siding and rarely square each other or the street.
Continuation of these patterns and materials is the key to maintaining and enhancing the village's character when pressure to grow brings new development. |
Lake
Technically, Wolfe Island punctuates the beginning of the St. Lawrence River, but the water is so expansive that the western end and crossing to Kingston, feels very much like Lake Ontario. As large as the island is, the absence of a bridge and connection by ferry is a frequent reminder to residents and visitors that this is an island.
While the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River maritime industry is not as strong as in the past, it should not be surprising that boats can be seen everywhere on the island when stored on land for the winter. |