William F. Baker and his spouse have possessed Henry Island for over three decades, but now, at 84 years old, he intends to sell the nearly 90-hectare island to a buyer dedicated to its preservation.
Located a short boat ride away from Port Hood, Nova Scotia, Henry Island boasts a four-bedroom residence and a functional lighthouse dating back to 1901. The Bakers acquired the property in 1991 and have used it as a retreat from their bustling lifestyle in New York City.
Having had a successful career in broadcasting in the United States, William F. Baker served as the president of the PBS flagship station in New York for two decades. Prior to that, he played a pivotal role in launching Oprah Winfrey’s talk show career during his tenure at Westinghouse Television.
Seeking a more tranquil existence, both Baker and his wife, Jeannemarie Gelin-Baker, a nurse practitioner, sought solace on Henry Island. Baker’s fascination with lighthouses and island ownership led them to explore Canada’s East Coast.
The allure of Henry Island lies in its untouched natural beauty and peaceful surroundings, enveloped by sandy beaches and rugged cliffs, with wildlife as the only other inhabitants besides the Bakers.
Over the years, the Bakers have restored the lighthouse and residence with the help of local residents, making the property self-sufficient with rainwater for drinking, solar power, and an outhouse. Their annual retreat to the island has become a cherished tradition, welcoming visitors from the Port Hood community.
Although maintaining a remote island has been labor-intensive, the couple now finds it challenging to keep up with the upkeep as they grow older. Despite their emotional attachment to the island, they have reluctantly put it on the market for nearly $7 million Canadian dollars.
The property has garnered interest from various parties, including individuals from Ontario, the U.S., and Germany. The Bakers, through their agent at Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, aim to find a buyer who will uphold Henry Island’s pristine state.
With a desire to see the island preserved for future generations, the Bakers hope to secure a new owner who shares their vision. The property will continue to be promoted online and in lighthouse preservation magazines to attract potential buyers interested in owning this unique beacon of tranquility.