The Silver Dollar: A Tradition of Northern Hospitality
Immerse yourself in our story of wilderness, warmth,
and the welcoming spirit of the North.
Meet the Owners
Kathy & Andrew Johnstone
Kathy grew up on Hwy 599 near The Silver Dollar, in a bustling area known for its tourism camps and local industries. Her family ran a bait and tackle shop, and her father worked in the forestry industry. Kathy went on to teach for over 15 years in the nearby Ignace area.
Andrew was born and raised in Thunder Bay, Ontario. He spent 18 years as a police officer in Thunder Bay and Timmins. Andrew’s roots in Northern Ontario deepened his appreciation for the region’s natural beauty.
Kathy and Andrew tied the knot in 2016 at Kathy’s parents’ camp on Sturgeon Lake, a place close to their hearts and a frequent stop on their visits to the area.
On May 1, 2019, Kathy and Andrew became the proud fourth owners of The Silver Dollar. Their purchase marked the beginning of a new chapter, driven by a dream to transform the property into a welcoming community hub.
The couple is passionate about the outdoors, actively engaging in activities like snowshoeing, kayaking, and ice hockey. They share these adventures with their children and two dogs, making every outing a family affair. Their commitment to a guest-first philosophy and creating a family-like atmosphere is evident in every aspect of The Silver Dollar.
The Silver Dollar was founded in 1969 by Bob Sincox as a lively hub for workers from the nearby Mattabi Mine and the local forestry sector. Originally conceived as a service point for the bustling local industry, the lodge quickly became a community cornerstone. An aerial photograph taken shortly after its construction shows The Silver Dollar in its early days, a testament to its long-standing presence and importance in the region.
Over the years, ownership of The Silver Dollar has passed through caring hands. After Bob Sincox, Carol and Bob Addunno took over, nurturing the lodge for about 20 years before passing the torch to Theresea and Marty Brindley. Under the Brindleys, the lodge adapted to significant local changes, notably the closure of Mattabi Mine in the 1990s, which shifted its role from a residential hub to a destination for seasonal visitors—primarily hunters and anglers seeking the beauty and challenge of Northern Ontario.
In May 2019, Kathy and Andrew Johnstone stepped in as the fourth owners, bringing fresh energy and a family-oriented vision to The Silver Dollar. Their passion for the land and community has infused new life into the lodge, continuing to build on its rich history while steering it toward a future of inclusive, family-friendly hospitality.
Our Philosophy
At The Silver Dollar, our core philosophy is grounded in a profound respect for nature and a commitment to sustainable living. We believe that true relaxation and rejuvenation come from connecting deeply with the natural world around us. Our guests are encouraged to explore the wilderness, whether it’s through quiet contemplation by the lake, active engagement in outdoor sports, or shared experiences under the open sky.
We strive to create an environment that feels like home, where guests are treated as part of the family. This sense of belonging and community is at the heart of what we do. We want every visitor to leave The Silver Dollar feeling refreshed, with a renewed appreciation for the outdoors and lasting memories of warm, welcoming hospitality.
