George Boldt imagined his wife, a beautiful princess in a castle. He imagined her walking down a grand staircase in grand-style, and wanted to build that for her, and present it to her on valentine'd day - as a tribute to his love for her. He was going to make that dream a reality.

In 1900, construction began on Boldt Castle. Over 300 of the finest stone masons and craftsmen were hired, and worked up to ten-hour days (for only $1.50)
The army of workmen didn't overlook a single detail called for in this monumental work of architecture that was to be George Boldt's gift to Louise.

Four years had passed since work on this new 'summer house' had begun. It was nearing completion in January of 1904, when tragedy struck.

Louise Boldt was dead.

A heart-broken George couldn't bear to think of the castle without her. He immediately telegrammed the construction foreman on the island, and ordered that construction on the island stop.
The island fell into an eerie silence, as 300 workers put down their hammers and went home. The work was never finished.

As long as he lived, George Boldt never again stepped foot on Heart Island.
He died in 1916.

the Love Story

History of Heart Island

Major Players

Other Buildings

The Origin of 1000 Island Dressing

George Boldt's Good Deed

Summer White House?

Tragedy and Vandalism

MY Story

1000 Island Bridge Authority

'Broken Heart'
(a ghost story)

Fun Facts and Trivia