Moose Factory Island

Moose Factory Island is a river island located at the mouth of the Moose River near James Bay in Ontario. The island spans several square kilometers with an extensive coastline and contains both historic structures and a modern settlement with various buildings and facilities.

The Hudson's Bay Company established Moose Fort on the island in 1673, creating one of the earliest European trading posts in the region. The fort became a center for the fur trade and shaped northern development for centuries.

The northern section contains Factory Island Indian Reserve 1, where the Moose Cree First Nation maintains their traditions through the Cree Cultural Interpretive Centre. Visitors can observe traditional crafts and learn about the daily life of the Cree community.

The island is accessible only by water, primarily via boat taxi from the nearby mainland settlement of Moosonee. Visitors should prepare for cool weather and adjust travel timing to the seasons, as conditions vary significantly.

The island experiences significant daily tidal fluctuations due to its proximity to James Bay, shaping the landscape and daily life. These extreme tidal movements affect navigation and create a special ecological environment in the region.