Historical Reflections

Summer is approaching and the Grand Portage – Isle Royale boat service has begun once again. For many years, Captain Roy Oberg piloted ships from Grand Portage to “the island.” First it was the Woodshed, then the Rita Marie, then the Disturbance, the Voyageur and the Voyageur II. As it does now, each trip took two days, leaving Grand Portage and traversing the length of Isle Royale between Windigo and Rock Harbor Lodge. On the second day, Captain Oberg returned to Windigo and then Grand Portage. He is pictured here in the pilothouse. Captain Oberg’s son, Lee Oberg, recalls, “She [the Voyageur II] hauled passengers, freight, supplies, gossip and mail to the summer residents.”