Couple Has Lived For 30 Years On Hand-Built Island They Call Freedom Cove

Aug 11, 2020

Have you ever heard the saying, "If you want something done right, you have to do it yourself"?

Well, husband and wife duo Catherine King and Wayne Adams took that to heart and created the living space that they wanted but could not afford to buy. Wayne had visions of being a rich artist with the ability to buy prime real estate in Tofino British Columbia, complete with a studio in the wild.

When the rich part of this Carver's dream failed to materialize, he went to plan B and carved out his dream by creating his own island.

What he and his wife built together over nearly 30 years is nothing short of phenomenal. With several amazing structures comprising of an art gallery, a dance floor, four greenhouses, a candle factory, and more, the "Freedom Cove" is their paradise on earth.

A waterfall is the source for their supply of running water, according to CBS News. They worked long and hard to build the life they dreamed of.

They built a multi-structure floating compound with their own hands using recycled wood and other materials. In an interview posted on YouTube, Wayne states,

"Everything is done with a saw and a hammer. No power tools. I know every board and nail by name."

The timing of their inspiration to build came from a storm. While they were at a friend's cabin, a passing storm left behind plenty of wood from which they could salvage and begin building their dream home, according to a profile by National Geographic. That "gift" of wood was their sign that it was time to build.

To this day, whatever is added to their cove is salvaged. Aside from repurposing, recycling and salvaging, the couple also barters with local loggers and fisherman. When needed, Catherine exchanges her beautiful works of art for items she finds in their backyards.

The Freedom Cove is only accessible by water and that is the way they like it. The couple only goes into town every so often and the noise of the city, unlike the peace and quiet at their compound, is unnerving. They are always glad to get back to the familiarity and the peace of the place they call home.

They are richly reaping the rewards of their labor — their labor of love. With home-grown, healthy food, places to practice their artistic talents, and fresh water, they have everything they need to sustain their way of life. Wayne sometimes hops in a canoe to get dinner from the lake.

And, in about ten minutes, dinner is caught. If the weather is not appropriate for fishing, he can just lay on the couch, open a plexiglass hatch that leads directly to the lake, and fish from the comfort of his couch, as he explains in this video.

After nearly 30 years in isolation, they have no desire to return to "normal life" as defined by society. They are content to continue living in perfect harmony with nature, their resident birds, and enjoy the incredible life nature has given them. They have everything they need for a happy life including each other.

Have you or someone you know ever built something that you really wanted but could not afford it? Tell us about it & please make sure to pass it on to your friends and loved ones.