Hand-drawn hometown collection
A hand-drawn celebration of Fort Frances, available exclusively at Rainy Lake Sports.
Community
Fort Frances is a friendly border community shaped by Rainy Lake, Rainy River, and generations of life on the water. The Noden Causeway, The Hallett, fishing traditions, and a lively local calendar give residents deep roots and offer visitors an inviting gateway to Northwestern Ontario.
Where to find it
715 Agamiing Dr
Fort Frances, ON P9A 2S2
Store hours
Checked September 14, 2026. Holiday, seasonal, and special-event hours may vary.
The collaboration
Fort Frances was part of our family’s regular route from Sioux Lookout to visit family in the United States. We would come down Highway 502 and cross at International Falls alongside the many hunters and anglers traveling into Canada. The rock cuts, water, and changing landscape always felt like a beautiful welcome to Northwestern Ontario.
The Rainy Lake Mermaid is one of my favorite elements on the mug. Its story is tragic, but the love behind a parent’s memorial to a child gives it deep meaning. The design also celebrates magnificent Rainy Lake, the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship, and the community’s paper mill and logging history.
It has been great collaborating with Missy at Rainy Lake Sports and creating a mug that celebrates a community woven into so many of our family’s journeys.
The story behind the mug
Ashley partnered with Rainy Lake Sports to create a mug rooted in Fort Frances.
Research and community input highlighted Rainy Lake, riverfront history, fishing, and the landmarks of Fort Frances.
Ashley translated each selected place and symbol into an individual hand-drawn illustration.
The drawings were refined and arranged into a continuous design that rewards a closer look.
The finished mug became a locally available keepsake through Rainy Lake Sports.
Inside the illustration
Each element celebrates a recognizable part of the community’s history, landscape, gathering places, and everyday life.
The lake represents boating, fishing, islands, and daily life at the edge of town.
The river forms an international boundary and a lasting connection through the community.
The preserved logging tugboat recalls the region’s forestry and river transportation history.
The former schoolhouse now shares local artifacts, art, and community stories.
The long crossing over Rainy Lake creates a familiar approach to Fort Frances.
Fishing imagery celebrates the tournament and the community’s strong angling tradition.
The creative process
Rainy Lake became the visual thread for this mug. I drew Rainy River, The Hallett, and Fort Frances Museum around it so the finished wrap moves through Fort Frances the way a familiar view or favorite drive does.
A meaningful local gift
The mug makes a meaningful Fort Frances, Ontario housewarming gift, new-home welcome, or moving-away keepsake. Its hand-drawn local details give residents and former residents something familiar to recognize with every cup.
Purchasing information