The Erratic
The Bleasdell Boulder Erratic
It came from a distant land, where the earth held marble rather than the porous limestone surrounding it. Once, it blended seamlessly into the place where it belonged. But then came an unstoppable force from the north, invisible but undeniable. Without choice or warning, it was carried away, placed in an unfamiliar landscape among strange stones and stories.
Now, it rests, massive and silent, bearing the marks of a journey it never sought. Its texture and colour set it apart, a stranger in a land that does not recognize it. Those who pass by are drawn to it, wondering how it came here, disconnected from its origins. Moved by forces it could not resist, it is a quiet witness to its own displacement.
Though it remains, it is never truly a part of its surroundings. It endures, not out of belonging but because it must. Standing still, it is scarred by the unseen hands that moved it. Its presence speaks to the quiet weight of being out of place, a reminder of the forces that shape and uproot, leaving what cannot return.
Located near Frankford, Ontario, the erratic stands as a testament to the incredible geological forces that shaped this continent over 12,000 years ago. This 2-million-pound marble boulder, transported over 50 kilometers from its original location near Madoc, offers a unique and awe-inspiring window into the region's ancient past.
Not only is the boulder of immense geological importance, but it also holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. Resting on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, and Huron-Wendat peoples, it is a symbol of their enduring connection to the land, a connection formed thousands of years ago.
The preservation of this natural wonder also owes much to Paul and Maria Heissler. Their dedication to making the boulder accessible to the public led to the establishment of trails, bridges, and educational materials, ensuring that this remarkable site could be enjoyed by all. Maria's decision to donate the land to the Lower Trent Conservation Authority secured ongoing preservation efforts and public access, ensuring that the boulder's legacy will endure for future generations.
Acknowledging both the First Nations peoples’ cultural ties and the Heissler conservation efforts is key to understanding the full significance of the Bleasdell Boulder.
Download the collection. Prints are available, please contact Stephen.
