Over 150 years of history. About Silver Islet General Store
The Silver Islet General Store was originally established in 1871 as the service hub for the the small mining town of the same name. Silver Islet Mining Company was established by Alexander H. Sibley to extract high quality silver ore from a small island, which is now underwater. Over the 16 years that the mine was operational, approximately $3.25 million in silver was extracted which was an incredible amount at the time. At its peak, it was one of the richest silver mines in the world. Silver Islet is now a summer getaway for many, with the population mainly being seasonal cottagers.
With over 150 years of history, the store is the oldest business in Northwestern Ontario. Its Tea Room serves light fare and a variety of seasonal fresh baked goods. There is also an ice cream parlour, and a retail area that sells snacks and features unique gifts and souvenirs, many sourced locally.
Contact Us
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Silver Islet General Store -
ON-587, Thunder Bay, Unorganized, ON P0T 2M0 -
(807) 629-9829 -
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Explore
This historical store is located at the Silver Islet Harbour, where you’ll find visitors, boaters, and locals enjoying the sun and cool lake breeze. From time to time, you may also glimpse an expedition cruise ship, whose guests will come ashore by tender to explore the village.
A quick walk or drive from the store will get you to a short hiking trail that brings you to the Sea Lion, a unique rock formation. For the more adventurous, the Top of the Giant Hiking Trail is also close by. The trails as well as Lake Mary Louise Campground and Visitor Centre, are all part of the adjacent Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.
From time to time, Parks Canada offers an interpretative voyageur canoe tour of the Silver Islet Harbour. Archie’s Charters also offers shuttle boat service to Porphyry Island.
Taste
The store has a tea room, where guests can enjoy hot beverages, cold drinks, soups, sandwiches, and delicious baked goods. Famous for its fresh cinnamon rolls, tea room fare changes daily and often features scones, muffins, and pies prepared with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Over the summer months, another popular item is their hard ice cream, served by the scoop.
Shop
Whether you are looking for a unique gift, or souvenir of your visit to Silver Islet, the store has something for you. Clothing, teas and handmade soaps are among the selections. The store also has giftcards available that can be used in person, or at their online store. Sprinkled throughout the retail areas are pieces of history that are not for sale, but help visitors understand the rich history of the place.
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