In the late 19th century the island was inhabited the year round by a farming family, and the maple trees were tapped for syrup, which gave Sugar Island its current name. In 1900, the American Canoe Association formed a committee to obtain a permanent site on the St. Lawrence River to hold its annual meet. On July 18, 1901, Sugar Island, then known as St. Lawrence island, was purchased for $1,000 on land set aside for use of the Mississaguas of Alnwick Indians.
The late 19th century saw a farming family living on the island and tapping maple trees for syrup, which is why it's called Sugar Island. In 1900, the American Canoe Association formed a committee to find a permanent location on the St. Lawrence River for its annual meeting. On July 18, 1901, Sugar Island (formerly known as St. Lawrence island) was purchased from land designated for the Mississaguas of Alnwick Indians.