STRATHGARTNEY PROVINCIAL PARK

Strathgartney Provincial Park was originally part of an estate owned by David Stewart of Scotland. His son, Robert Bruce, became a resident landlord of the estate and named it Strathgartney after his ancestral homeland in Scotland. Four generations of Stewarts lived at the "Homestead," the last leaving in 1961.

Robert Cotton, the "Father of Provincial Parks," bought 40 acres of the 500-acre estate in 1958 and presented it to the Government of Prince Edward Island on the condition it be developed as a Provincial Park. These 40 acres of beautiful rolling countryside were opened as P.E.I 's first Provincial Park on Dominion Day, 1959.

Strathgartney Provincial Park commands an handsome view over the West River and has been a very popular park since opening day. Although it is our oldest park, it is interesting to note that it always had a modern touch as it was equipped with flush toilets from the start. This was accomplished without the use of electricity by placing an hydraulic ram in a brook. The ram pumped the water up a hill to a tank which provided the pressure for the washrooms. It is also interesting to note that the first ski-tow on the Island was set up in the park in the early sixties.

The park contains several other unique features, including a nature trail and a frisbee golf course. A new comfort station was added in 1985 to replace the outdated and overextended facilities.

Strathgartney Provincial Park has always been one of the more popular parks in the Provincial Park system. It is a favourite spot for many Island families and its central location also makes it a favourite with the travelling public. As it nears its 30th birthday, Strathgartney Provincial Park stands as a fine representative of the generosity of Robert Cotton.

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