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Published by dstew, 2020-01-14 11:17:43

Buckeye Lake Tour Book

See all the great places to visit and everything there is to do around Buckeye Lake, Ohio, courtesy of the Buckeye Lake Region Chamber of Commerce and its members.

Buckeye Lake Region Tour Book 2019-2020

Issue 25

Free
Toasting Our Buckeye Lake Region

• Attractions
• Maps
• History
• Businesses
• Events

www.buckeyelakecc.com



CONTENTMENT IN YOUR PRESENT.
CONFIDENCE IN YOUR FUTURE.

Great things can happen when we work together—like planning
your financial future or finding ways to support your community.
I am committed to helping you be wise with money, so you can
feel confident you have enough for yourself—and to share.

Let’s make your needs a priority. Give me a call today.

Jeff Ritter, CLU®, LUTCF®, CKA®, FIC

Wealth Advisor
Thrivent Financial Hall of Fame
Central Ohio Group
15302 Shoreline Dr.
Thornville, OH 43076

614-626-2778

Facebook.com/jeff.ritter.thrivent
Linkedin.com/in/jeffreyrittterthrivent

Thrivent.com • 800-847-4836 28397 R6-18

Pontoon|Tri-Toons|Fishing Boats|Outboard Motors

Fisher's Marina
Since 1912

(740) 467-2905
www.FishersMarina.net

Welcome Everyone to The Buckeye Lake Region1
Glad you have stopped and picked up a copy
of the Buckeye Lake Region Chamber of Com-
merce Tour Book. This year, 2019, is the 25th
edition of the Tour Book and as always it’s loaded
with maps, stories and advertising about the Buck-
eye Lake Region.
And, 2019 marks not only the 25th year of the
Chamber’s Tour Book but also the year that we will
have a full lake, a new dam, a new multi-purpose
path and BEST OF ALL NO DAM CONSTRUC-
TION.
As you are visiting the Region be sure to take a walk or bicycle ride on
the 4.1-mile path along the Buckeye Lake waterfront. Stop at some new busi-
nesses along the way and, most importantly, take the time to relax and enjoy
this beautiful Region and Buckeye Lake.
There are several new businesses and things to enjoy throughout the
Buckeye Lake Region. Fishing, boating, a fresh cappuccino, a glass of wine
while watching the sunset or a guided history tour of Buckeye Lake, it’s all
available to you today or anytime you visit.
Please look at the maps and advertising in the Tour Book to find shop-
ping, dining, marinas and Realtors available here in the Buckeye Lake Region.
We’re glad you’re here and we want you to come back again and again. Don’t
forget that our businesses and attractions are also open and waiting for you in
the winter as well. Many of you have been here for Winterfest Weekend and if
you haven’t then you need to be here the Last Friday in January. Benny will be
waiting to do his annual Spring prognostication.
As I have mentioned, this is the 25th printing of the Buckeye Lake
Chamber of Commerce Tour Book and I truly want to thank all of our adver-
tisers, the businesses around the Lake, the Villages and the Townships, and the
Chamber Board and Administrator. We all work hard to make The Region and
Buckeye Lake a great place to work, live and relax. We truly have it all in The
Buckeye Lake Region.

We love it here and we know you will too.

Timothy L. Ryan
President
Buckeye Lake Region Chamber of Commerce

2 Officers

President Vice President

Tim Ryan John Doneff


Secretary Treasurer
Lisa Stewart Brendan Underwood
--Trustees--

Brody Kuhn Tom Wolfe Mike Fornataro
(through 2021) (through 2018) (through 2019)

740-398-7205 or [email protected]

3

Table of Contents
President’s Page........................................................................................ 1
Table of Contents...................................................................................... 3
About the Chamber................................................................................... 4
Buckeye Lake & Cranberry Bog............................................................... 8
First Canal Boat Built in Hebron............................................................ 11
From Rails to Trails in The Buckeye Lake Region................................. 11
Fairfield Beach........................................................................................ 12
Queen of the Lake................................................................................... 13
Village of Buckeye Lake......................................................................... 14
Greater Buckeye Lake museum.............................................................. 18
Village of Hebron.................................................................................... 19
Village of Thornport............................................................................... 24
Lake Facts............................................................................................... 26
Village of Thornville............................................................................... 28
Village of Millersport.............................................................................. 32
Area Map................................................................................................ 33
Walnut Township.................................................................................... 39
Licking Township................................................................................... 40
Welcome Mark Hoffhines....................................................................... 41
World’s Oldest Chris Craft Dealership................................................... 42
Buckeye Lake Story................................................................................ 43
Bike Buckeye Lake................................................................................. 44
Buckeye Lake VFW................................................................................ 45
Buckeye Lake Amusement Park............................................................. 46
Buckeye Lake Yacht Club....................................................................... 46
Buckeye Lake Library............................................................................. 47
Harbor Hills............................................................................................ 48
Route 79 Supercruise.............................................................................. 49
Winterfest................................................................................................ 50
Dawes Arboretum................................................................................... 53
Backwoods Festival................................................................................ 55
The Wreck and Recovery of the Black Diamond................................... 55
Newark Industrial Park........................................................................... 57
The First Hotel at the Lake..................................................................... 57
Fishing Buckeye Lake............................................................................. 58
Boater’s Guide to Buckeye Lake............................................................ 60
Buckeye Lake Region Members............................................................. 65
Event Calendar........................................................................................ 68

4 About the Chamber

The Buckeye Lake Region has a seen a metamorphosis of effort and enthusiasm

in development and entrepreneurship in the area. The Chamber’s goal is to promote a

business environment benefiting the Buckeye Lake Region. This happens through mem-

bership and networking.

The Buckeye Lake Region Chamber of Commerce is committed to the im-

provement of the communities it serves through volunteering time, efforts, and spon-

sorship to local causes. We offer many opportunities to be involved in the region and to

make your business more visible. We invite anyone interested in the betterment of the

Buckeye Lake Region to Join the Chamber. You can do this online by clicking the “Join

us” button at www.buckeyelakecc.com or by filling out the application found on page 6

and mailing along with your check to:



Buckeye Lake Region Chamber of Commerce

PO Box 5

Buckeye Lake, Ohio 43008

MEMBER BENEFITS:
• Expanded discounts and opportunities through the Southern Ohio Chamber Alliance
• Your business listed in The Greater Buckeye Lake Region Tour Book.
• A listing on our website www.buckeyelakecc.com and link to your website.
• Opportunity to advertise in The Greater Buckeye Lake Region tour book
distributed throughout the area.
• Meetings providing opportunities to educate members about your business
and distribute business materials.
• Networking at Business After Hours events.
• Many reduced-cost benefits through alliances with other chambers.
• Opportunity to offer Business-to-Business discounts to increase awareness
and expand your customer base.
• Safety Council meeting with Licking County Chamber available to our members.
• Updates from local and state officials, business leaders and area civic asso
ciations, etc.
• Opportunity to officially participate in Winterfest.

About the Chamber 5

Covering the Tri-County Area

Fairfield • Licking • Perry
Visit us at www.buckeyelakecc.com

“Mission, Vision and Purpose”
Anchors to Our Success

Mission: To stimulate area business by sharing ideas, information and
supporting our communities, as well as educating consumers
about services and products our members provide.

Vision: To create and support a thriving business environment
that provides a variety of services. This environment includes
retail, coordinating seminars and events, maintaining a
website that contains business-critical information.

Purpose: To strengthen area businesses through education and
fellowship.

Visit us at www.buckeyelakecc.com
740-398-7205

[email protected]

6 About the Chamber

The 2019-2020 Visitors Guide is a publication of the Buckeye Lake Region

Chamber of Commerce, the BLRCC cannot be held responsible for any errors or

changes that occur after printing.

For more information about the Chamber, membership or any other inquiries,

visit our web site at www.buckeyelakecc.com.

------------------------------------------------------

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

❒ Yes, I would like to join the Buckeye Lake Region Chamber of Commerce.

Enclose your check and mail to:

Buckeye Lake Region Chamber of Commerce

P.O. Box 5, Buckeye Lake, OH 43008

Business Name: _________________________________________________

Contact Person: _________________________________________________

Address: _______________________________________________________

City/State/ZIP: __________________________________________________

Business Phone: _________________________________________________

Alternate Phone: _________________________________________________

E-mail Address: _________________________________________________

Website: _______________________________________________________
❒ Business or Professional Member $75.00
❒ Associate Member $75.00
❒ *Outside Area Business or Professional Member $145.00
❒ *Outside Area Associate Member $75.00

*Outside Area is deemed as being outside of Fairfield, Licking and Perry

Counties. Business Members shall be those persons engaged in any business

or professional activity. Associate Members shall be those persons interested

in the betterment of the Buckeye Lake area but who are not directly engaged in

any business or professional activity.

Cover Photography by:

7

PARK COREY ALTON CANDY LEHMAN

NATIONAL BANK COMMERCIAL LENDER CASH MANAGEMENT

Local decisions 740.349.3923 740.322.6830
and expertise.
Customized solutions
for your business.

COUNT
ON US.

8 Buckeye Lake & Cranberry Bog
The Creation of Buckeye Lake & Cranberry Bog

An Ice Age relict and barges.
As the last glacier crossed Ohio, north- In 1830, a dike was completed and the
ern plants were forced south. The glacier
moved so slowly that a wide belt of Cana- reservoir filled, and two years later it was
dian forest was able to move along well in enlarged by 500 acres. The resulting lake
advance of the ice. By the time this mas- covered about 4,300 acres and the Lick-
sive ice sheet caught up to, pushed over ing- Summit Reservoir was born. Barg-
and buried the mature seed-producing es first used the route in 1831, six years
plants, their offspring farther south of the after ground breaking. Port towns such
glacier were producing seedlings on their as Thornport and Millersport sprung up
own. along the canal system during its construc-
tion. Horses and mules pulled the barges
By the time of European settlement, from the “tow paths” built along the sides
most of the Canadian vegetation had long of the canal. In fact, the sidewalk of the
since vanished from America. In a few North Bank of Buckeye Lake follows the
isolated sites however, environmental original tow path and is often referred to
conditions allowed individual species and as the “Old Tow Path”. Even today, canals
bogs to survive. exert great influence on transportation be-
cause eventually highways and railways
The Canal were often constructed along the aban-
Early settlers called the 4,000-acre doned canal routes.
swampy marsh in Licking County the The “Deep Cut” canal is the most dis-
“Big Swamp”and native Americans and cernible part of the Ohio and Erie Canal
settlers alike collected cranberries there. in Fairfield County, running from Bickel
By the early 1800s, the open waters of the Church Road to Buckeye Lake, approxi-
original glacier lake were 5 miles long, yet mately 4 miles in length. The Deep Cut is
only 400-500 feet wide because of vegeta- a very deep canal made specifically to get
tion which closed in the shoreline. the canal water in the Lake to flow toward
With the advent of the Ohio and Erie Baltimore, Canal Winchester, and on to
Canal, the construction of a large reservoir Circleville. This canal goes right through
was needed to lift canal passenger boats downtown Millersport.

Buckeye Lake & Cranberry Bog 9
The Creation of Buckeye Lake & Cranberry Bog

Buckeye Lake The Birth of Cranberry Bog
In May 1894 the Ohio General Assem- It was the impoundment of the Big
bly officially abandoned the reservoir as Swamp which made Cranberry Bog
a canal feeder and proclaimed it a public unique. As water backed up behind the
park. By 1900, the Ohio and Erie Canal dike the swamp was destroyed, except for
was finished as a commercial waterway. the youngest, most buoyant segment of the
Its name was changed to Buckeye Lake bog mat. A 50-acre upper segment of the
and recreational use of the lake grew as bog mat along the north shore expanded
transportation to the area improved. By like a giant sponge and rose 8 feet with the
the early 1900s, Buckeye Lake had be- new water level.
come a popular resort spot. No longer did the floating bog mat sur-
In 1949 Buckeye Lake was officially round the glacial lake, as is typically the
dedicated as Buckeye Lake State Park. In case with such bogs. Now the lake sur-
1968, it was dedicated as one of Ohio’s rounded the bog, making Cranberry Bog
first Natural Landmarks. In May 1973 the only known occurrence of its kind in
Cranberry Island was dedicated as a state the world.
nature preserve.

740.321.1080

10 Buckeye Lake & Cranberry Bog

The Bog Environment rounding environments.
A critical feature of a bog ecosystem Cranberry Bog’s Future
is a simple plant called sphagnum moss.
As it grows, sphagnum, upon which the When the island surfaced, it was about
entire bog community is based, releas- 50 acres in size. By 1910, 45 acres re-
es a staggering quantity of acid into the mained. By 1955, it was down to 23
water. This environment is too acidic for acres. In 1963, the island was less than
most plants, other than those adapted to 20 acres.
Today the island has dwindled to less
Unique plants populate Cranberry Bog than 11 acres. In all probability, Cran-
berry Bog will continue to shrink.
the bog community.
Sphagnum moss has an unusual cell Man, not nature, created the island.
Now man and nature are slowly destroy-
structure, enabling it to hold many times ing it. This little island is at the mercy of
its own weight in water. On hot days wake and ice action coming off a very
it acts as a sponge, evaporating large large, shallow lake.
quantities of water, cooling the surface
of the bog while maintaining a high hu- Trees and marsh vegetation have
midity, absolutely critical for many bog invaded the edges of the island where
species. This thick, spongy covering of bog acid has been sufficiently diluted
sphagnum moss also acts like a huge in- and oxygen is readily available. When
sulator, keeping root temperatures well trees are blown over, large clumps of
below air temperatures. This dramati- peat clinging to the trees’ root system
cally reduces the length of the growing are torn away from the island Just how
season in the bog, as compared to sur- much time the island has before it disap-
pears is unknown. Cranberry Bog State
Nature Preserve remains today as one of
the most unique and fascinating natural
areas in the nation.

A Bog Tour
Due to the fragile condition of the
preserve, access is restricted to small,
supervised groups. To learn more about
visiting the bog, go to www.buckeye-
lakehistory.org or call 740-929-1998.

First Canal Boat Buitl in Hebron 11

The Strange Fate of the First Canal Boat Built in Hebron

The first canal boat constructed on the Ohio Canal was the “Lady Jane”,
built in 1836 in Hebron. A great crowd gathered to cheer the launching from
the basin, the present-day location of
the Hebron Fire Station & American
Legion Hall.
The cheering crowd waved
“goodbye” and went back to their
July 4th activities, only to see the boat
quickly return.
As it turns out, the Lady Jane
made it to the Taylor Locks (across
from the entrance to Kaiser Alumi-
num) only to discover the boat was too
wide for the lock!
Lady Jane ended up moored in
the Hebron basin, only to become a place for the townsmen to play cards, gam-
ble, drink, and just generally be guys.
Local lore holds that the ladies of the Hebron churches organized and marched to
the Lady Jane and set fire to the world’s lowest-mileage canal boat.

From Rails to Trails in The Buckeye Lake Region

The first lakeside rails were laid in 1875 by the Straitsville RR from
Thornport, past Avondale and into Newark, bringing coal and passengers
from Perry County. Remnants of the railway may be seen today, especial-
ly along Lancer drive. As it passed Avondale there was a passenger stop
at what is now Papa Boos, then a “fish camp” recreation area. On Rt. 40
across from Lakewood school the railway is now a paved bicycle/walking
trail that goes uninterrupted into the Heath/Newark area. Bring your bike
or walking shoes and enjoy the rural views!

3940 South Bank Road
Millersport
740-467-2882

[email protected]
Avalon Pontoons
Mercury Marine

Shore Station Hoists
www.alexanderslanding.com

12 Fairfield Beach

For a century after the “Big The addition of a new convenience
Swamp” was discovered by European store by Andy Wolfe has brought
settlers the South Side of what became fuel, groceries and a laundromat to
Buckeye Lake was little more than oil the most populous unincorporated
wells and farmland. After the demise neighborhood in the Region. Add the
of the canals the first steps of develop- energy brought by the Buckeye Lake
ment of the lake as a resort rather than Winery, Beach House Pub and the
a canal feeder began. Fishing cabins, Cantina, updates and improvements
social clubs, and the Shell House Ho- to the campground and the State Park
tel constituted the development of the and the Beach’s future is bright. Be
South Side until the mid-1920’s, when sure to visit when you come to the
attention turned in a serious way to Lake!
what would become Fairfield Beach. – Submitted by Alex Fant, FBPOA President
Arthur Smadbeck, a developer
from New York City, set things in www.weldons.com
motion. Known for developing rural
tracts bordering lakes at vacation
areas and seeing a similar opportunity
at Buckeye Lake Smadbeck purchased
the land that would become Fairfield
Beach from the Zollinger family. He
subdivided it, creating the roads and
lots we know today, and then sold it
to the Columbus Dispatch. 20’ x 100’
lots were offered to subscribers of six
months or more starting on August 5,
1926 for $69.50, with $9.50 down and
the balance in $3 installments.
In November of 1926 the
Fairfield Beach Property Owners
Association (FBPOA) was established
as a civic organization for residents
of the Beach and at times boasted
216 members. The FBPOA has gone
through many phases, holding dances,
community clean ups, hosting speak-
ers, and giving the members of the
community a voice. Fairfield Beach
has grown from a seasonal retreat to a
vibrant, diverse, year-round communi-
ty. Fairfield Beach has the largest area
of natural shoreline public access on
Buckeye Lake, with a sand swimming
beach, picnic area, boat ramp and
abundant public parking.
There’s more to the story of the
Beach and the FBPOA to be written.

Queen of the Lake 13
History of the Famous Queen of The Lake

The arrival of a sternwheeler visitors on tours of Buckeye Lake’s
tour boat on Buckeye Lake came historic
in 1950 when area native Fred Tay- shoreline along with tours of the fa-
lor and his sons of Millersport be- mous Cranberry Bog.
lieved that Buckeye Lake needed a Now history is repeating itself.
passenger boat. He built the boat An 88ft true sternwheeler built on
right on the water in a Buckeye the Muskingham River was recent-
Lake Channel. ly donated to the Museum. She
The last sternwheeler was re- is to be christened the “Queen of
tired in 1973 a few years after the the Lake III”. This boat will give
Amusement Park closed. For many public tours, dinner cruises, and
years thereafter visitors to the be available for special outings. It
lake would stand on the shoreline will be a most beautiful addition to
and wish they could take a tour of Buckeye Lake.
Buckeye Lake. In 2007, the “QLIII”is currently being re-
Buckeye Lake Historical Society stored and renovated by a dedicated
focused on bringing a tour boat group of talented volunteers. She is
back to the scheduled to launch in 2019 when
lake. Through their efforts the she will become the latest craft to
”Queen of the Lake II” was born, share with visitors and guests the
a 48’ pontoon boat donated to the beauty and history of Buckeye
Museum that became a community Lake, Ohio’s oldest State Park. For
investment as many groups came more information go to www.buck-
together to get her in the water. eyelakehistory.org
She has taken thousands of

14 Village of Buckeye Lake
* for more information about our member businesses, see our website

Village of Buckeye Lake 15

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Village of Buckeye Lake

The Village of Buckeye Lake
was incorporated July 9, 1980.
This village is located on State
Route 79, abutting I-70 on the
north and Buckeye Lake to the
south. It is approximately half way
between Columbus and Zanesville
and many of the residents com-
mute to work in these towns. It is a
growing community covering 1159
acres or 1.81 square miles, with a
population of approximately 3,200.
Interestingly, the village was
originally comprised of private-
ly-owned so called “additions.”
Instead of selling the land to the
cottage owners, it was leased for,
say, $10 a year. The additions were
Neel, Myer, Rosebraugh, Bounds,
Carlin, Elliott and Holtsberry. To-
day nearly all land has been sold to
homeowners.
The evolution from resort area
to incorporated residential village
was driven by the desire to update
former summer cottages into year-
round, permanent homes. Interest-
ing places to see in Buckeye Lake
Include the Blue Heron nesting
area, Cranberry Bog, the Lake it-
self, Buckeye Lake Museum, the
multi-use trail along the original
canal tow path and the Yacht Club.

continued on page 17

16 Village of Buckeye Lake

Village of Buckeye Lake 17

There are churches of sev- bank, an auto parts store, hardware
eral faiths, a Community Action store and a motel are welcome busi-
Agency, the “Harbor” Communi- ness assets to the community, as is
ty Center, LEADS, a full-service a public water system that came on-
library and more serving the resi- line in 2010, along with the re-pav-
dents. A professional Fire Depart- ing of many of the village streets.
ment, Youth Association, Chamber Highlighting the community pride
of Commerce and Civic Associa- is the Buckeye Lake Museum, ded-
tion are all active in the concerns icated to the history of the 3-county
and welfare of the community and Buckeye Lake Region. Newspaper
in the affairs of a self-governed, service is furnished by the Buckeye
growing village. Buckeye Lake Lake Beacon, Buckeye Lake Shop-
Village has a nicely equipped park, per, Columbus Dispatch, Newark
“Ryan Park”, with a ball diamond, Advocate and Town Crier. The ra-
basketball court, picnic shelter, dio stations of Heath and Newark
bike & skateboard park, rest rooms cover activities in the village.
and children’s play equipment. Fishing, boating and camp-
Several restaurants, a brewery, ing are available in the village.
The State of Ohio purchased the
Central Ohio’s only complete line former amusement park land and
of professional outdoor, indoor and developed the grounds into the
state-owned “North Shore Land-
consumer fireworks! ing” park with 3 boat ramps, sand
beach swimming area, restrooms
2240 Horns Mill Road Lancaster and public docks. This park also
offers access to the east end of the
740.654.BOOM 4.1-mile “multi use path” atop the
Buckeye Lake dam. Smooth and
www.hamburgfireworks.com level with an asphalt surface, this
trail along the shoreline is unique,
scenic and permits both walking
and bicycling.
Come spend an afternoon at
Buckeye Lake – you may be so
enchanted you become our newest
resident!

18 Buckeye Lake Museum

Greater Buckeye Lake Museum

The pride of the Buck- ing suits and shoe skates.
eye Lake Region is evident at the The Museum features spe-
Museum, located at the corner of cial displays of the Polo Field, the
Route 79 (Walnut Road) and Cot- Yacht Club, our Veteran’s Memori-
tage street beside the Post Office in am of Uniforms and Guns, an origi-
the Village of Buckeye Lake. Open: nal 1918 Chevrolet that was used in
Tuesday – Sunday from 1:00 – 4:00 Hebron and Buckeye Lake Parades
p.m. and other hours by request. and the completely restored Rocket
Thousands of items bring back Ship ride from the park.
the memories of the “old days” at A great way to learn more
famous Buckeye Lake Amusement about the Buckeye Lake Region is
Park. See a complete layout of the to visit our Museum. Put it on your
Park, the original taffy puller, plus “must see” list! Contact (740) 929-
hundreds of photos, tickets, bath- 1998 or www.buckeyelakehistory.org.

Village of Hebron 19

* for more information about our member businesses, see our website

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HDTV Channels with Free HBO • Free Wi-Fi
In-Room Microwave, Refrigerator, Coffee
Meeting Room (35 Person Capacity Max.)

Fitness Center • Whirlpool • Indoor Pool
Free Deluxe Hot Breakfast • Interior Corridor
100% Smoke Free • Exit 129 on Highway I-20
Competitive Local Business Rates Available

www.bestwestern.com/lakewoodinn

20 Village of Hebron

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hebron

Hebron , the sixth town founded at that time as “ The Crossroads of
in Licking County, is located on Ohio”, the nickname of the village
Route 40, the “Old National Trail”, to this day.
which was constructed through Hebron was a busy mar-
Hebron in 1834. The road origi- ket-place as it became the regional
nated in Cumberland, Maryland center for importing and exporting
and ended at Vandalia, Illinois. products. Soon there were tanner-
The Ohio-Erie Canal extend- ies, sawmills, warehouses, distill-
ed from Cleveland on Lake Erie to eries, stage coach stops and pioneer
Portsmouth on the Ohio River, and traffic heading westward.
was constructed through Hebron in The Village is governed by an
1828. Since the direction of these elected Mayor, Village Council and
two major routes of transportation Clerk/Treasurer. A Village Admin-
crossed directly in the center of istrator oversees daily operations.
Hebron, the village became known It is protected by a full-time police

Locally Owned • Locally Operated
Locally Roasted

NORTH SHORE

COFFEE CO.

4675 Walnut Rd, Unit G • Buckeye Lake

Saturday & Sunday • 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
Monday through Friday • 6:00 am - 2:00 pm

Village of Hebron 21

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hebron

force and a staffed Fire Department and soccer fields add to our beautiful
provides EMS. community.
The Newark Advocate, Buck- Active organizations in He-
eye Lake Beacon, Columbus Dis- bron include the Mutual and Civic
patch and Buckeye Lake Shopper Improvement Club, Hebron Lions
serve as our news outlets. Club, American Legion Post 285
A large industrial park on State and Ladies Auxiliary, Boy and Girl
Route 79 north (known as the New- Scouts, 4H Clubs, Masonic Lodge
ark Industrial Park) is a boon to the F& AM 116, Fifty Five Club for se-
providing a number of assets for the niors and the Hebron Historical So-
Village of approximately 2200 resi- ciety.
dents. Hebron is strategically located
near Interstate 70, with State Route
79 and the Historic Road crossing
through Hebron. There are utilities,
good schools, churches, library,
banking, restaurants and shopping
facilities. Access to Port Columbus
Airport is only a half-hour away.
Canal Park features two light-
ed ball fields, gazebo, shelter house,
and a playground. Evans park with
its protected wetlands, walking path,
basketball courts, BMX park, Vet-
erans Memorial, baseball, football,

WE REPAIR
LIGHTING

at One Man’s Treasure...

For all your lamp needs!
Pick-Up & Delivery
12027 Lancaster St.

Millersport, OH 43046

467-PLUG (7584)

mailto:[email protected]

22 Village of Hebron

VILLAGE OF HEBRON
PLATTED 1827

INCORPORATED 1835

934 WEST MAIN STREET
HEBRON, OHIO 43025

Canal Park Playground Veterans Memorial at

and Gazebo Evans Park

Administration/Utility Billing 740-928-2261

Police Department 740-928-9402

Fire Department 740-928-4721

Library 740-928-3923

A great place to meet Santa visits Hebron Fun and games at
and eat! during the Tree Evans Park
Lighting Ceremony

23

www.friendsofthebuckeyelakelibrary.org.

24 Thornport
* for more information about our member businesses, see our website

Thornport 25

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Thornport
Thornport is a small unincor- During the boating season, many
porated hamlet that has a rich his- canal boats could be seen waiting
tory. It’s been more than a fishing their turn to be loaded with flour
resort and a place to go visit the lo- and grain for Cleveland. Upon their
cal tavern. return they brought pine lumber,
A map of a government survey salt, groceries, dry goods, etc.
of the Refugee Tract (the present Modern visitors to Thornport
Buckeye Lake) was signed in 1801 will find a complete grocery, sev-
and Thornport was laid out in 1839 eral dining/shopping and banking
by William W. Talbott who had an options along with the active and
agreement with Licking Summit vibrant Amvets Post. Heron Bay, a
Reservoir Improvement Company beautiful lake-side community of
of Thornville to construct the canal fine home and condominiums, is
in Thornport. adjacent to Thornport. Work is un-
In 1850 Thornport was a lively derway to create a public park with
community at the head of naviga- access to the Lake on Honey Creek
tion on the east end of the lake and Rd in Thornport.

the only seaport in Perry County.

26

Care where you need it, when you need it.

www.fairhopehospice.org • 740-654-7077
Lake Facts

• The State of Ohio has owned and managed Buckeye Lake for over 150 years.
• Buckeye Lake, not a true lake, is a shallow, man-made impoundment hold
ing millions of gallons of water from a twenty-seven-hundred-acre reservoir
and a forty-four square mile watershed… all held in place by a four-mile
long dam which was rebuilt from 2015-2018 at a cost of $110 Million.
• The first Buckeye Lake Dam was built before the Civil War by men and
mules using swamp dredging and loose rock fill to create as a crucial link in
the Ohio – Erie Canal system.
• Buckeye Lake Dam is the only known dam in the world to have private
residences and other structures built adjacent to the toe of the dam.
• First spillway to control lake water level was added around 1910.

40

27

•LOBSTER FEST first Sunday of each month

CARLETON
REALTY

Office: 740-653-5200
RDeaeltobr®bi Popo Fax: 740-653-9653
Cell: 614-562-7329 [email protected]
debbipopo.carletonrealty.com

“Service with Brilliance”



psbohio.com

28 Thornville
* for more information about our member businesses, see our website

Thornville & Thorn Township 29

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Thornville & Thorn Township

The most likely first explorer to map as center of trade for the local farm-
ers. The largest is Thornville, platted in
what is now Thornport was Christo- 1810.
pher Gist who in 1750 began work for The early industries thriving be-
the Ohio Company, established by the tween 1833-1880 included tailors,
British government to stem the flow of shoemakers, a wagon factory, several
the French into what is now the State of blacksmiths, and other businesses which
Ohio. From Gist’s writings we know he attracted people from miles away.
stopped on the shores of the “Great Buf- Now that the railroads have moved
falo Swamp”, that he encamped, fished out, Thorn Township and Thornville
and trapped here, wrote of the beauties enjoy easy access to the world by way
of the area and the abundance of wild- of nearby Interstate 70 and State Rt.
life. 13. Visitors will find beautiful Victo-
Thorn Township, named for the rian homes, a public swimming pool,
numerous thorn bushes along the south- bowling alley and restaurants, banks
ern shore of the lake, was originally part and antique shops. Thornville hosts sev-
of Fairfield County. In 1804 it was or- eral festivals each year, including the
ganized as a congressional Township, “Backwoods Fest “a September festival
a six-mile square unit. March 1, 1817, of primitive arts, crafts, music and food
parts of Washington, Muskingum and that draws tens of thousands of fans to
Fairfield Counties were combined to this unique, family-friendly event. And
create a new county, Perry, named for access to beautiful Buckeye Lake is nev-
Oliver Hazard Perry of Put-in-Bay fame. er far away.
Settlements began to appear on the




Dr. Douglas Poorman

Dr. Justin Kirchhofer Dr. Julie Mestemaker

Dr. Libby Torchia Dr. Amber Kostelansky

Dr. Mary Edge Dr Drew Sollenberger

Here for all your pet care Needs

4200 Walnut Rd SE

Buckeye Lake, Ohio 43008

Phone: 740-929-3300 Fax: 740-929-3301

www.petplex.net

30
Thornville, Ohio

1 Mile South of
I-70 on St. Rt. 13

31

TLR and Associates, Inc.

Commercial Real Estate & Development

P.O. Box 51
5279 North Bank Rd.
Buckeye Lake, Ohio 43008

740-527-2379
Mobile: 740-504-9003
TIMOTHY L. RYAN Fax: 740-527-2379
E-mail: [email protected]

32
* for more information about our member businesses, see our website

33

BUCKEYE LAKE REGION CORPORATION (BLRC)

is a non-profit organization open to all political and civic entities
of the tri-county Buckeye Lake Region, created to coordinate
and implement the mission outlined in BLR2036.

BUCKEYE LAKE 2036 is a grassroots declaration created January 2016 by over
270 volunteers to chart the economic growth of the Buckeye Lake Region, in
order to improve the well-being and prosperity of its residents and businesses.

OUR CORE VALUES

RESPECT g OPEN COMMUNICATIONS g PRIORITY TO LOCAL
COMMUNITY FIRST g DIVERSITY AND OPENNESS

34

TheBSa

35

Sarand

VISIT BUCKEYE LAKE 2036 ON FACEBOOK

3W6 HAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS? Millersport

g Work with ODNR to establish dam rules and regulations
g Long-term dredging plan
g Storm water mitigation
g Flooding along the landward side of the dam
g Water Quality Improvement Initiatives
g Organize funding for a comprehensive regional plan
g Feeder Channel remediation
g Consistently identify projects that fit the Community Vision and pursue funding
g Crystal Lake amenity study and cost estimate
g Recreational pier study and cost estimate

Read the entire 5-year plan at blrc2036.org

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

YOUR IDEAS

Email [email protected] or contact appropriate committee

YOUR SWEAT

Email [email protected] or contact appropriate committee

YOUR TREASURE

BY CHECK:

Make payable to: The Columbus Foundation
Memo Line: The Buckeye Lake Region Community Foundation
Mail: The Columbus Foundation, Attn: Jeff Byars 1234 E. Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43205-1453

OR ONLINE:

Go to BLRFoundation.org and click on “DONATE NOW”

Thank you sincerely for your interest and support.

CHAMPIONS OF THE LAKE - Major Financial Supporters:

BLRC2036.ORG g PO Box 2030 Buckeye Lake, OH 43008 g 740.964.4520
[email protected] g LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!

Data prepared by Gruen Gruen + Associates - Urban Economists, Market Strategists, Land Use / Public Policy Analysts - January 2017

Millersport 37

The community of Millersport, northeast corner of Fairfield County
Ohio, was founded in 1825 by in central Ohio. It rests on the south
Mathias Miller as a port of trade and west banks of Buckeye Lake,
on the Ohio Erie Canal. With the an extremely popular resort area in
perseverance and central Ohio.
creative initiative of its residents, Businesses provide tourists
Millersport has flourished. with restaurants, bait stores, park
Millersport is a beautiful offices, service stations, grocery
community with the Buckeye stores, nightclubs, and a very
Lake to the east and rural farms popular old-fashioned homemade
throughout the surrounding area. A ice cream parlor.
well preserved portion of the Ohio Millersport is also the site of
Erie canal cuts through the center the second largest festival in the
of town enhancing the colorful, state of Ohio, the annual “Sweet
picturesque community loved by Corn Festival”. Through the years,
its approximately 900 citizens. millions of people have come to
Millersport is located in the enjoy the shows, music, parades,

BUCKEYE LAKE HARDWARE

& Appliances


11109 Hebron Rd. (Rt. 79)
Buckeye Lake
(740)-928-4700


Hardware, Paint, Plumbing & Electrical Supplies.
Glass & Screen replacement.
New!!! Computer sales & service
Stop in & check us out!!!

38 Millersport

rides, and exceptionally good food. churches, civic organizations,
Square dancing, talent shows, businesses, and the public school
games and lots of fun grace the system. The local government has
festival each year on Labor Day as its goal maintaining the values
weekend. With every conceivable upon which the community was
delicious food available, the most established and building upon
popular is the steaming hot and juicy that foundation to assure steady
sweet corn dripping with butter. growth, progressive innovation and
Children and adults alike devourer a healthy tomorrow.
it with earnest enjoyment and utter The Village of Millersport is a
delight. The profits earned by the great place to live and raise a family.
Sweet Corn Festival help finance It is a tremendous place to visit
participating civic organizations and enjoy as a guest. Though it is
and provide eyeglasses through the within 30 minutes of Columbus and
Lions Club for children unable to Zanesville and within 20 minutes of
afford them. Lancaster and Newark, Millersport
There is no community as has maintained a fresh country
small and tranquil that offers flavor. Perhaps you should come
more than Millersport. The mayor, see for yourself, taste Millersport’s
village council, board of public fruit, meet its people, and enjoy
affairs, Volunteer Fire Department what it has to offer. Likely you too
and Police Department continually will find it an oasis in the desert,
seek to maintain a community an island in the stream, and an
rich in history, patriotism, culture extremely refreshing community
and environmental beauty. They in the heart of Central Ohio. That’s
also endeavor to enhance the Millersport!
opportunities of the citizens, local

Walnut Township 39

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Walnut Township

Fairfield County was organized and completed in 1833), “Buffalo
December 9, 1800. It was part of the Swamp” became the Licking Reser-
Northwest Territory until March 1803 voir, which served as a feeder for the
when Ohio became a state. In 1807 canal. In 1894 the name was changed
or 1808, Walnut Township was creat- to Buckeye Lake.
ed from the northern part of Pleasant Mathias Miller laid out the town
Township. Its name came from Wal- of Millersport, a port on the Ohio-Erie
nut Creek. canal, on February 12, 1827, near the
Walnut Township is a part of the southwest shore of the Licking Reser-
Refugee Tract, set apart by Congress voir.
in 1798 to certain persons who left the The Village of Monticello was
provinces of Canada and Nova Scotia settled about 1803 by a small group of
to aid in the Revolutionary War. Virginia Pioneers. When Millersport
The first road in Walnut Town- was laid out, Monticello was already
ship was built in 1803 and was called thriving about a mile south along the
the Lancaster and Newark (New Ark) bank of “Deep Cut”. It had grown
Pike. This later became the Lan- as a community for those working
caster-New Salem Road and is now on the construction of the canal and
known as Ohio Route 188 or Lancast- had a Post Office from 1827 to 1833.
er-Thornville Road. Now nothing remains of Monticello
New Salem, located halfway only the “Deep Cut”.
between Lancaster and Newark, was At the southern end of Walnut
laid out December 12, 1832 by Abra- Township, Columbus Street in Pleas-
ham Hashbarger /Harshbarger and antville is the boundary between
David Swazey/Swayze. It may have Pleasant and Walnut Township.
been named after the town of Salem, Today’s visitors will find that
Massachusetts. Walnut Township includes over a
The Village of Thurston, origi- third of the shoreline of Buckeye
nally called Hitedale (1849) was laid Lake, including sections of the north,
out as Bush City in 1881 by George west and south shores. Visitors are
Bush, and a year later became Had- welcomed by several restaurants and
ley Junction. In 1913 the village offi- clubs, along with marinas, islands
cially became Thurston, named for a and businesses. Learn more about
well-liked Methodist minister. what Walnut Township has to offer at
With the construction of The www.walnuttwp.com.
Ohio and Erie Canal (begun in 1825

40 Licking Township

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Licking Township

Rolling Hills, Historic National Road and modern fire station, serving the
and Lakeshore community with professional, rapid
Easily accessed via state high- emergency response. For the visitor
way or interstate freeway, Licking there are several golf courses, a ma-
Township includes portions of the jor concert venue (Legend Valley)
east and north east shore of Buckeye and restaurants both inland and on the
Lake and Rt. 40 – the old “Nation- shore of Buckeye Lake. A recent ma-
al Road” – runs through its length. jor project brought public sewer and
One of the 1st townships in Licking water to the hamlet of Jacksontown,
County, its rolling hills and beautiful, at the intersection of Rt 13 and Rt
honest, country character are a rare 40, resulting in renovations and new
treat. That beauty is enhanced by the construction. Licking Twp is dedicat-
famous Dawes Arboretum. Home ed to staying green and preserving its
to rare and varied plant species from charming rural character while wel-
small and delicate to towering trees, coming visitors, residents and busi-
you can read more about Dawes in an nesses. Learn more about Licking
article elsewhere in this book. Lick- Township online by visiting http://
ing Twp recently built a spacious www.lickingtwpohio.us

Buckeye Lake/Columbus East KOA
4460 Walnut Rd. SE
Buckeye Lake, OH 43008

Propane Sales, Gift Shop, Campsites & Cabins
For more information please call 740-928-0706 or
Visit www.buckeyelakekoa.com

THE BLRCC WELCOMES MARK HOFFHINES, ODNR PARK MGR. 41

Mark Hoffhines assumed the construction, with a flood of new
post of ODNR Buckeye Lake Park dock construction expected along
Manager on September 18th, as the the 4.1-mile dam. Then there is the
dam project was ODNR multi-year dock construction
winding down. in Fairfield Beach, some of which
Visiting in Mark’s should be available for lease (by lot-
office at the Lieb’s tery) in 2019.
Island ODNR facil- A new challenge is the 20+ acres
ity we talked about of mowing and maintenance created
the latest chap- by the dam project. “I’d like to create
ter of Hoffhines’ an “Adopt a Dam” program similar to
more than 2-decade what you see along many highways”
ODNR career and his goals and chal- said Mark. “Perhaps area service
lenges as Park Mgr. groups could help with litter control.
Mark lives in Pickaway County, The park areas around the lake that
with his wife of 21 years and 3 sons, offer playground equipment need to
where he is also the manager of A.W. be updated, and the equipment re-
Marion State Park. Also 21 years ago placed. I’d like to see more things for
Mark began his career with ODNR. the kids to do.”
He has served as an Enforcement Of- As a youth Mark would come to
ficer, wildland fire investigator, wa- Buckeye Lake to go water skiing with
ter quality manger, state-wide trail his grandfather, and looks forward to
manager and other duties, bringing a greatly increased dredging, with the
well-rounded background to one of benefits to water quality and depth
the most unique State Parks in Ohio. that will bring. Buckeye Lake has
“I love the outdoors and working for long been known for great fishing and
ODNR gave me the opportunity to several ODNR initiatives have made
protect our Natural Resources while it better, with more to come.
creating recreational opportunities Mark encourages visitors and
for all.” Said Mark in explaining why residents to embrace all that Buckeye
he chose this career. Lake has to offer and looks forward
Mark’s duties at Buckeye Lake to a bright future for Ohio’s first State
include managing staff (2 full and Park.
4 part-time employees), budgeting, To contact Mark call the ODNR
safety concerns and revenue. His Lieb’s Island office at 740-467-2690
challenges and goals included re-acti- or email buckeye.lake.parks@dnr.
vating the dock licensing and leasing state.oh.us. Please type “Attention
programs and approving new dock Mark Hoffhines” on the subject line.

42

Buckeye Lake was home to the World’s Oldest Chris Craft Dealership!

In 1904 Mr. Henry Sayre built a two-stall boathouse, with living quarters
upstairs, about 100’ east of the present location of the Buckeye Lake Yacht Club.
It was in these living quarters that three sons and a daughter were born.
Their names were Earl, Fred, Raymond (later known as “Skeeter”), and a girl;
Eva. Fred and Raymond later became “Sayre Brothers Marina”. Fred was the
father of “Bud” Sayre who went on the operate the marina until his retirement.
In 1926 Mr. Edgar Wolfe Sr. went to New York to attend a boat show. While
there he was impressed by the “Chris-Craft” line of boats. Wolfe told Chris-Craft
representatives if he could get a Chris-Craft serviced at Buckeye Lake he would
purchase a boat. The boat manufacturer contacted Sayre Brothers and appointed
them “Chris-Craft” agents for sales and service at Buckeye Lake.
It is debated if Sayres’ was the first or second authorized dealer, but when
they quit carrying the Chris Craft line in 1994 they were certainly the oldest. Bud
ran the marina with his wife Fran until her death in 1973. He married Zenna in
1974 and together they ran the marina until Bud retired in 1982. Boats were sold
by Sayres’ until 1997 (but never outboards). The beautiful mahogany that makes
up the bar at the Yacht Club is actual Chris Craft decking, donated by Bud &
Zenna Sayre and constructed by Mac Wood & crew.
Zenna operated the marina until 2008. It was later operated as “Boat Boys
at Sayre Brothers Marine” from 2011until the dam restoration began in 2015.
There is so much amazing history of Sayre Bros. Marina but we will use the
rest of this space for illustrations, captions, and to offer the new owners of the
Sayre Bros. property our best wishes for success in what it is to become.

Does a new Chris The Sayre Bros.
Craft for $3485 boathouse built over
sound like a good the Lake with living
deal? Consider that quarters above. The
a new car could be last remnant was torn
bought for about down in 2016 during
$500 in 1929! the dam construction.
Bud & Zenna Sayre
Looking East from
“Cherokee”, a Sayre Bros., Wolke’s
stunning restoration Grocery & Meats
by Sayre Bros. and was renovated into
owned by Bud & the Sayre residence,
Zenna still standing today

Sayre Bros. restau-
rant, located imme-
diately West of the
Marina

Buckeye Lake Story 43

Buckeye Lake Story

In the mid 1700’s, Buck- which would eventually become
eye Lake was known by the Buckeye Lake. In the canal days,
Indians as the “Big Swamp” or Buckeye Lake gained yet anoth-
“Big Pond.” Near the pond was er name, the “Licking Summit”,
a salt spring that attracted deer because it was one of the high
and bison, which gave the area points along the canal’s planned
another name: “Buffalo Lick.” path.
The Lake, as it is known today, As the water level rose,
was formed in the Glacial Peri- several large mats of sphagnum
od. It was of little importance to moss broke loose from the
the white men until the building bottom and became “floating
of the Ohio Canal. The building islands.”
of the canal enlarged the lake to Other islands were also created
7 1/4 miles in length and about because the land was above the
1 1/4 miles in width at its wid- water level.
est point, the dimensions of the Port towns and mills sprung
lake as we know it today. On up along the canal system during
July 4, 1825, the first shovel of its construction. Horses and
earth was turned to begin the mules pulled the barges up and
Ohio-Erie Canal System. The down the canals from the tow
July 4 ceremony was held on paths built along the sides of the
State Route 79 midway between canal. In fact, the North Bank of
Newark and Hebron. Approxi- Buckeye Lake was a tow path
mately 100 years after the cer- and today is known as the “Old
emony, a granite boulder with Tow Path.” Barges first used the
a bronze plaque was erected on route in 1831, six years after
the site by Licking County res- ground breaking. Even in disuse,
idents. Construction of the dike, canals exerted a great influence
blocking drainage into the South on transportation because even-
Fork of the Licking River, be- tually highways and railways
gan in 1826 and was completed were often constructed along the
in 1830, forming the reservoir old, abandoned canal routes.

44 Buckeye Lake Story

The Deep Cut Canal is the deep cut canal made specifical-
most discernible part of the ly to get the canal water in the
Ohio and Erie Canal in Fairfield Lake to flow toward Baltimore,
County, running from Bickel Canal Winchester, and on to Cir-
Church Road to Buckeye Lake, cleville. This canal goes right
approximately 4 miles in length. through downtown Millersport.
The Deep Cut is actually a very

Bike Buckeye Lake

Bike Buckeye Lake is a provided 145 bicycles, helmets,
non-profit entity consisting of local and locks to area families.
residents working to create multi- The 2nd Annual “Tour de
use trails for everyone to enjoy the Buckeye Lake” ride was a huge
unique Buckeye Lake Region. success with 200+ registered riders
2018 was an exciting year for this past August. Look for big im-
Bike Buckeye Lake as they shared provements coming for the 3rd an-
in the ribbon cutting ceremony of nual ride on Saturday, August 24,
the new 4.1 mile path on the dam. 2019. A portion of the proceeds
This stretch along with the new goes to the Christmas Bike drive,
trail by Fairfield Beach brings us along with supporting the efforts of
to over 20% of the total goal for a trail development around the lake.
safe route around the entire lake. If you would like more info about
Trails are only part of what Bike Buckeye Lake, to make a do-
Bike Buckeye Lake is doing; there nation, or to volunteer, please fol-
is also ongoing fundraising to pro- low us on Facebook at Bike Buck-
vide bicycles to youth in the region eye Lake or visit our website at
who might not receive any pres- www.bikebuckeyelake.org.
ents for Christmas. This year they

Buckeye Lake VFW 45

Buckeye Lake VFW

The Buckeye Lake Veterans of Foreign Wars hall on Rt 360 near the
spillway is built on the site of the historic Minthorn Hotel, one of the very
first occupied structures around the Lake. And the VFW is making history
today, with a tradition of supporting not only veteran’s’ causes, but also many
worthwhile charities to help all Ohioans in need. How do they do this? With
activities at the hall ranging from card clubs to live entertainment, where
members and guests at the VFW take advantage of the full-service bar and
kitchen that serves up great food at great prices. And you don’t have to be a
member to visit! The VFW is open to the public and offers social member-
ships, with great benefits, to all! How nice is it to know that when you are
at the VFW enjoying food and fun with your friends that your money helps
to support worthwhile causes? It’s a win-win! Please stop by and visit the
Buckeye Lake VFW – your friends are already there!

“Values” Mean More Than Financial Return.

Welcome Animal lovers

12575 Lancaster Street
Millersport, Ohio 43046
www.feedercreekvet.com

(740) 467-2949 • (800) 451-2746

46 Buckeye Lake Amusement Park

The Famous Buckeye Lake Amusement Park

Buckeye Lake was home to “The sphere Man”, just to list a few.
Playground of Ohio”, a very popular Boats of all kinds were avail-
amusement park located where the able for boat rides, including the
North Shore State park is now. It was big stern-wheeler, fast speed boats,
not unusual for 50,000 people a day to “u-drive em” boats and row boats.
come to the Park on holidays… Easter, The Park had many ride attrac-
4th of July, Labor day and other special tions through the years. The biggest
times. and most popular was the roller coaster
The park had two big dance halls “The Dips”.
and all the big bands of that time, in- Concessions of all kinds were in
cluding Tommy Dorsey, Guy Lom- the park, with games of skill, Bowling,
bardo, Vaughn Monroe, Xavier Cugat, Penny Arcades, Fortune Tellers, a Ri-
Kay Kyser, Lawrence Welk and Cab fle Range using live ammunition, and a
Calloway played at the Lake. Drug Store with souvenirs.
Free Acts were performed each The Roller Coaster “crashed” in
night in the center of the park. Among 1958 and was never repaired. As other
the performers were the Wallendas (an attractions deteriorated, the Park went
aerial group), carnival acts, dog and downhill, coming to an end in the late
horse acts, and “Seldon the Strato- 1960’s.

The Buckeye Lake Yacht Club

Early Visionaries of the Lake Region

The Buckeye Lake Yacht Club was established in 1906 by a group of recreation-minded
gents who looked at a stump-clogged reservoir and envisioned the lake we enjoy today. Early Club
members used their statehouse connections to lobby the State of Ohio and were instrumental in
having the lake cleared and the spillways constructed to control the water level.
Since 1912 the BLYC has been located on an island connected to the North Bank by a
foot bridge. Illustrating their early political connec-
tions, the island is named “Watkins Island” in honor
of George H. Watkins, president of the Ohio State
Board of Public Works in the early 1900’s. Watkins
ran the state agency with the authority to turn this
stumpy reservoir into a real lake, and with the urging
of the club members did exactly that.
The Buckeye Lake Yacht Club sponsors
many lake-area projects and community charities to
this day, along with sailing races and regattas. The
private, members-only club is open to the public during the “Cruisin’ at the Yacht Club” car show
July 14th and the much anticipated, post-dam construction return of the Classic Boat Regatta and
show on August 17th. Mark your calendar to visit the historic clubhouse during these “open house”
events and check out far more information and membership details at www.buckeyelakeyc.com


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