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SECTION 4
More to come

Until the early 1960's the only access was by boat or aircraft. The site for Ragged Rapids was flooded over when Swift Rapids went into service. The plant was, and is to-day operated by the town of Orillia (Orillia Water Light and Power Commission (OWL&P)). However as of Nov. 1, 2000, OWL&P was dissolved and replaced by the Orillia Power Corporation.

Initially, the plant was manned two per shift 24/7; a first operator and a floorman. During this period, into the early 60's, the colony population would have been between 50 and 60 people and comprised of; plant superintendant, 4 first operators and 4 floormen, 2 marine railway operators (lockmaster and assistant) and a colony handy man. And of course their respective families.

Prior to the locks being completed in the 60's, a marine railway was the means used to carry boats from one level to the other, a 47 foot difference. Rounding out, but by no means the least of the colony families, was the handy man. During the summer he operated the company boat named OWL Guess how this name came about. This was the summer time link to the post office and CNR station 3.2 kilometers up river, to Morrison Creek landing 6.5 kilometers up stream where cars were left, or to Severn Falls, 4.9 kilometers down stream also accessable by automobile and CP rail. He was also responsible for the team of horses used to haul firewood, mail and people during winter and between seasons.

The children attended a one room school also operated by the OWL&P who supplied a competent teacher to grade eight level. Beyond this level they were boarded in Orillia or Washago to attend high school. To-day the plant is remotely operated from a control Center in Orillia. An attendant lives at the colony to be available in emergencies and to perform switching and other routine duties.