William F. Baker, at 84 years old, is looking to sell Henry Island, a property he and his wife have owned for 35 years, to a buyer who will preserve its natural beauty. The island, located just a 20-minute boat ride from Port Hood, N.S., boasts a four-bedroom family home and a functional lighthouse built in 1901.
The Bakers acquired the island in 1991 as a retreat from their bustling lives in New York City. William F. Baker, a renowned broadcaster, spent two decades as the president of the PBS flagship station in New York and played a significant role in launching Oprah Winfrey’s talk show career at Westinghouse Television.
Enchanted by lighthouses and the idea of owning an island, Baker explored Canada’s East Coast and found solace on Henry Island. The couple fell in love with the island’s tranquility, surrounded by beaches and rugged cliffs, offering a peaceful escape for both of them.
Over the years, the Bakers renovated the house and lighthouse with the help of local residents, making the property self-sufficient with rainwater for drinking, solar power, and an outhouse. Despite the maintenance challenges, the couple is emotionally attached to the island and hopes to find a buyer who will cherish it as much as they have.
The property, listed for nearly $7 million Cdn, has garnered interest from potential buyers in Ontario, the U.S., and Germany. The Bakers, through their agent Angie Bryant, aim to attract buyers who value preserving historic lighthouses and untouched natural landscapes.
As the Bakers prepare to part with Henry Island due to maintenance demands, they emphasize the importance of finding a new owner who will continue to care for the property and uphold its legacy. The island remains on the market, awaiting a buyer who shares their passion for preserving its unique charm and history.