During this past summer some folks got the unique opportunity to tour the famous Oak Island. Not our lovely hotel but that island just off our shoreline that we have been telling everyone for years that they have no access to. No – we weren’t lying… this is a new and exciting time for the island.
I had the opportunity to take a tour a few weeks ago. There really is something about stepping onto that island. As soon as you step foot you become part of the history…. Could you possibly be the last person to walk there before the treasure is found? Your mind can’t help wonder as to what is ahead …. Pirate’s gold… lost Shakespeare manuscripts …the crown jewels of France…. maybe even the Holy Grail????
We here at Atlantica have been fortunate enough to be able to form partnerships with both the current stewards of the island and the Friend’s of Oak Island Society. Both groups have such a passion for the island. Rick Lagina, one of the partners from the Michigan group – the current steward has been passionate about the treasure since he first read about it in the 1970’s at the age of 9. Imagine the thrill he must have felt as he made his way to our province and first stepped foot on that island. You can’t help but be excited that he has the opportunity to continue the search and hope that he finds something. The most endearing part of the tale as it continues today is the love that Rick has for the island. He sees himself as a steward of the island as opposed to the owner. He wants Nova Scotians to be able to enjoy the island and become part of the mystery. We finally see an opportunity to promote tourism with this hidden gem.
Now … just because he wants to let the public experience the island it doesn’t mean it’s a free for all – there IS a treasure there. A few tours to this point have been done with the Friend’s of Oak Island Society. Going forward we are so proud and excited to be included in this venture. Both of our partners have given us access to some artifacts that we will eventually house here at the hotel for our guests to view. On November 19th and 20th we will do our first joint experience. A package that includes a stay at Atlantica, dinner, a tour of the island, a book on Oak Island, and an exclusive viewing of artifacts from the dig. Charles’ Barkhouse from the society will be on hand to give a talk and chat about anything and everything that has to do with the treasure. So come on down to the south shore and join us – it is certainly an opportunity that you don’t want to miss. Once Rick finds that treasure we may have to wait a little bit longer to have this unique opportunity.
