William F. Baker, an 84-year-old broadcaster, and his wife have owned Henry Island for the past 35 years. They are now seeking to sell the nearly 90-hectare island to a buyer who will conserve its natural beauty and historical features.
Located a short 20-minute boat ride from Port Hood, Nova Scotia, Henry Island boasts a four-bedroom family home and a fully operational lighthouse constructed in 1901. The Bakers acquired the island in 1991, using it as a peaceful retreat from their bustling lives in New York City.
Fascinated by lighthouses, Baker desired to own an island and found his ideal retreat in Canada’s East Coast after a colleague’s recommendation. He views lighthouses as symbols of selflessness and assistance without expecting anything in return, describing them as almost sacred.
Enamored by Henry Island’s serene environment, surrounded by beaches and cliffs, the Bakers have invested in renovating both the lighthouse and the home. With the help of local residents, the property now operates off the grid, utilizing rainwater for drinking, solar energy, and an outhouse.
Despite the emotional attachment to the island, the Bakers acknowledge the challenges of maintaining it as they age. The property has been listed for nearly $7 million Canadian dollars for the past two years, garnering interest from potential buyers in Ontario, the U.S., and Germany.
The couple’s agent, Angie Bryant from Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, notes a growing trend of island sales, with Henry Island attracting attention from buyers interested in preserving its historical lighthouse.
The Bakers are intent on finding a buyer who will uphold the island’s pristine condition and prevent it from deteriorating. They emphasize the significance of maintaining the island’s integrity and history for future generations.