September 04, 2010
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Over A Century of History, Ed Huck Marine est. 1889

The Story of Ed Huck Marine began over 100 years ago with Ed Huck's father. One of the early Huck boatsFred Huck moved to Rockport in 1889 from Cape Vincent, N.Y. He started a boat building business at what is now the site of the Canada Customs building in Rockport. Several years later he moved to the present site of ED HUCK MARINE LTD.

In 1905, he purchased the 11-acre site and established a complete Black Smith shop and Foundry. He designed and manufactured the Invictus one and two cylinder engines and compatible wooden boats. He also built the famous St. Lawrence River Skiffs. Some of the more famous vessels of that era built by Fred Huck were the 40' Ellen and The Gypsy. From 1889 until 1945, a period of 56 years, Fred Huck, along with his family built approximately 50 Invictus engines.

When Fred Huck came to Rockport, he brought a young lady by the name of Ellen Slate Huck with him. The Slate family of Grindstone Island, N.Y. had a heritage of boat building, marine construction and seamanship dating back to the early 1800's. The Carnegies, Slates and Hucks were pioneers in motorized boats at the turn of the century in the 1000 Islands area. The Gypsy

Fred and Ellen Huck had six children, Charley, George, Edward, Howard, Carrie and Betty. Not only was it difficult raising a family in those times, it was also very difficult running a business. Fred Huck was unique though, the islands were owned by millionaires and Fred was able to cater to their needs. The International Border in those days was viewed as an imaginary line in the truest sense. Such names as Hasbrook of Manhattan Island, Bensons of Rabbit Island, E.J. Noble of Journey's End and Capt. Dodge; lighthouse keeper of Sister Island Lighthouse were only a few of the prominent residents who patronized Fred Huck and kept his business afloat in those early years.

During the Second World War, Ed Huck, who received his apprenticeship as a machinist under his father Fred Huck, was employed as a maintenance machinist by the Benson family at their Canada Starch plant in Cardinal, now Best Foods. The Bensons, showing particular interest in Ed Huck, required him to be their personal chauffeur in Montreal and their boatman during the summer months.

In 1945, at the end of World War II, Ed and his wife Cassie Huck, had a vision of operating his dad's marine business and a tourist lodge. The Fred and Ellen Huck homestead was turned over to Ed and Cassie. Cassie Huck, who had worked at tourist lodges along the river in her teenage years, decided while still raising her own family of five she was ready to open her own business. Scenic Lodge and Cabins was opened for business. By renovating the main home, building cabins, and offering a hearty menu, Scenic Lodge became a true family affair. This thriving summer tourist business employed ten people and accommodated up to 40 guests for fishing and vacations.

Disaster struck the marina in 1962. On February 24, fire destroyed the total marine service and storage facilities. Little insurance and the middle of winter left the family in devastation. However, Ed and Cassie Huck, along with their sons Donald, Robert, Morris and Gerald, and daughter, Beverly, knew they could bounce back. Ed Huck had established credibility with his suppliers; Evinrude Motors, Brydon Brass, Traveler boats, Keyes Supply, McConnel Lumber, and Fred Hunt Construction. These companies all respected Ed Huck and helped the business get back on its feet, and a new facility was built and ready to open in May of 1962.

The fireproof, all concrete building was only a start in designing the new facilities. The company was incorporated in 1965, a harbour was developing and new covered slips were built in 1966. Ed. Huck Marine Ltd. was fast becoming recognized as a major marina. Cassie and Ed were convinced to purchase an island to escape the business pressures now that their sons could take on greater responsibility. In 1968, upon examination it was discovered Ed Huck had cancer and he died within six months. Ed Huck passed away on November 10, 1968. Being a strong family and with mother's determination and hard work, the family continued with Ed's dream. Although the tourist lodge had scaled down its operation, guests still continued to visit Scenic Lodge and marvel at the most beautiful setting on the river.

Being owned and operated by the third generation of the Huck Family, Ed Huck Marine continued to expand. Through the 70s and 80s, they increased their docking facilities to accommodate over 200 boats. They also increased the capacity for winter storage to over 400 boats by being able to handle boats up to 50' in length with new haul-out equipment.

The Mid 90's ushered in the fourth generation of family ownership and with it some very major improvements. Capital projects began to upgrade the overall facility as well as increase dockage to better accomodate boats over 35 feet. With over two million dollars invested in Scenic Lodge General Store, new docks, shorepower, technical services, washrooms, showers, pool, and customer services Ed. Huck Marine is the premier marine facility in the 1000 Islands. 

As of 2009, Ed Huck Marine shows no sign of slowing down with continued capital improvements most recently featuring expanded dockage now for boats up to 65', vast infrastructure enhancements in the customer service yard, upgraded boater washrooms & showers, improved recreational and social areas with new furniture.

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