Heart Island’s Alster Tower
One of the first—and only—structures the Boldts got to enjoy while Boldt Castle was being built is Alster Tower. Often referred to as the “Children’s Playhouse,” this unique building offers a glimpse into the opulent recreational life of the Boldt family during the early 20th century and illustrates George C. Boldt’s imaginative vision and love for his family.
Completed in 1899, Alster Tower was completed before the construction of the grand Boldt Castle. George Boldt, the millionaire proprietor of the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City, envisioned the tower as a space dedicated to leisure and entertainment for his family and guests. Unlike the main castle, which remained unfinished due to the untimely death of Boldt’s wife, Louise, the family actively used Alster Tower during their summers on Heart Island.
Alster Tower’s design is a departure from conventional architecture created to reflect the charm of medieval European castles. The structure features slanting and uneven walls, ceilings, and roofs, and the deliberate irregularity adds to its whimsical character, making it the most architecturally unique building on the island.
In Madison’s Mission, Mrs. Boldt rests in the Venetian Room and the Boldts entertain here, too. The Tower’s recreational facilities reflects Boldt’s commitment to providing unparalleled entertainment. Its amenities included:
Two-lane Bowling Alley: A space for friendly competition and social gatherings.
Billiard Room: A sophisticated setting for playing billiards.
Venetian Room: An elegantly designed room inspired by Venetian aesthetics.
Library: A collection of books for leisurely reading.
Shell Room: A uniquely decorated room, possibly adorned with seashell motifs.
Theater: A stage for performances and entertainment.
These features made Alster Tower the center for recreation and socialization for the Boldt family and their guests, even before the castle was ready to enjoy.
After years of exposure to the elements and periods of neglect, restoration efforts are working to revitalize Alster Tower. The Thousand Islands Bridge Authority undertook extensive work, including masonry restoration, veranda reconstruction, and interior refurbishments. By 2014, the tower was reopened to the public, allowing visitors to experience its historical and architectural significance firsthand. And the work continues.
Today, Alster Tower stands as a captivating piece of the Boldt Castle estate. Visitors can explore its unique rooms and envision the lively gatherings that once took place within its walls. The tower’s distinctive design and rich history offer a fascinating glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Gilded Age elite. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious, Alster Tower on Heart Island is a destination that promises to enchant and inspire.
Boldt Castle is accessible seasonally from mid-May to mid-October by ferry or tour boat from various locations, including Alexandria Bay, NY, Clayton, NY, and Gananoque, Ontario. Private boaters can also dock at Heart Island. As the island is a U.S. port of entry, visitors arriving from Canada must present appropriate identification for customs processing. For more information on planning your visit, including hours of operation and admission fees, visit the official Boldt Castle website: https://www.boldtcastle.com/visitorinfo
About Madison’s Mission:
Step into the captivating world of Boldt Castle in 1903, where dreams are forged in the fires of adversity and love.
Madison Murray, the devoted maid to the legendary Louise Boldt, harbors a singular mission—to care for her ailing mistress while hiding her own painful past. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Emmett O’Connor, the distinguished foreman overseeing Boldt Castle’s extravagant construction. Their connection sparks with promise, yet the chasm of class difference and hidden secrets loom large.
Just as their budding romance begins to flourish, tragedy strikes, shattering their world. A deadly accident leaves Emmett wrestling with guilt and at the center of an investigation that could unravel everything he holds dear. Then Madison finds herself ensnared in a dangerous coverup that threatens her very life.
When Mrs. Boldt passes away, Madison is left reeling—jobless and burdened by the weight of her perceived failures. In a world filled with uncertainty, can she summon the strength to move forward and confront her past? Will Emmett rise above his challenges to forge a future alongside the woman who has captured his heart?
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