Jane Seymour Returns To Mackinac Island, Reunited With Iconic Rowboat 45 Years Later

Mackinac Island and its Grand Hotel are routinely ranked as one of the top summer travel destinations every year. The island itself is beautiful and one of the most unique areas in the world. No cars, lots of history, and plenty of places to walk along the lakeshore and enjoy the clear water.

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The Grand Hotel is the crown jewel of the island. It was built in 1887 and has been named one of the most romantic hotels in the country, which explains why one of the most romantic movies of all time was filmed there. The film continues to be honored there over 50 years after its release, bringing the star of the film, Jane Seymour, and adoring fans there each summer.

This year's reunion felt even more special as Seymour's grandchildren were along for the ride, and the rowboat from the movie's most iconic scene was returned to the hotel after 45 years.

Somewhere In Time (And Michigan)

Jane Seymour is known for her roles as Dr. Quinn in "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman" and as Solitaire in the James Bond film "Live and Let Die". However, the role that has stood the test of time (no pun intended) was that of Elise McKenna, a stage actress from the early 1900s. The love story between Elise and Richard, who traveled back in time to live a life with Elise, remains a fan-favorite.

The film took place on Mackinac Island and showcases the beauty and splendor the island offers. The movie was released in 1980, and Seymour returns to the island each year for a Somewhere in Time Reunion. 

A Special Reunion, 45 Years Later

This year's reunion featured a special reunion of its own, with the rowboat that Reeve and Seymour used for the movie's poster being found in immaculate condition, 45 years later. Seymour signed the rowboat, and it will be added to the Maritime Museum. Over the years, she has revisited the "Is It You?" tree, but the discovery of the canoe was especially meaningful to her.

Antonhy Cézar Curtis via YouTube[/caption]On Facebook, she wrote:

"With this pen in hand, I am signing a piece of history that means so much to me. This rowboat carries memories of an extraordinary film, a beautiful moment, and an incredible friend in Christopher Reeve. Returning to @grandhotelmichigan is always a reminder of the love that lives on."

What Makes Somewhere in Time Special

The love story at the center of this film is memorable because the connection between Reeve and Seymour is evident on screen. As it turns out, Seymour revealed the two were in love, and their on-screen chemistry was an extension of their real-life chemistry.

The two broke up after Reeve learned his ex-girlfriend was pregnant, but they remained close friends for the rest of their lives. Seymour even spoke at his Walk of Fame Star announcement and is sure to mention him whenever she's at this reunion.

READ MORE: One of Michigan’s Last Working Payphones Is on Mackinac Island

The movie, while not the largest role for either Reeve or Seymour, has remained one that has impacted them both and stuck with them throughout their lives.