Washburn Island in Lake Scugog, Ontario has been drawing people for centuries. First, as important seasonal grounds for the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, who fished, gathered wild rice, and used the route to move between the Kawartha Lakes and Lake Ontario. It also is infamous in history for the location of the murder of trader John Sharp by in 1804 — an incident that led to the doomed voyage of the schooner Speedy to carry the accused (Ogetonicut) and court officials to trial. After the Purdy dam (1830) made Lake Scugog a larger man-made lake, Washburn Island soon became a desired destination for side‑paddle steamers from Port Perry which hailed Washburn as a favourite picnic ground for large excursion parties each summer. Today, the tradition of recreation endures: Washburn Island hosts a mix of year‑round residents, cottagers, and weekend visitors who value the same sheltered shoreline and easy access that have made it a sought‑after destination for generations.