Publish Date: Saturday, June 6, 2009
Location: Put-in-Bay, South Bass Island, OH
Coordinates: 41° 39.387′ N 82° 49.175′ W
Ayla and Dave in front of sail boats at Put-in-Bay from Toledo.
Dave had heard about Put-in-Bay since he was a child growing up in Michigan. When other cruisers suggested we visit, there was a gleam in their eye. As we got closer, we heard the stories: Put-in-Bay is known as a party town (e.g., The World’s Longest Bar is located here). After our fun-packed cruising of Lake Erie, a party town did not sound appealing. We were looking for some place to relax, regroup, and get a few things done before we headed to David’s home in Michigan. Dave was intrigued by the town, the 80-ball mooring field, on-call water-taxi, and the history… so off we went.
What a pleasant surprise! Yes, it’s a party town, if that’s what you want it to be, but it’s much more. Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial National Park is located here. The visitor center is well done; with a nice video, good displays, and the nicest park rangers you’ll ever meet. We all knew very little about the War of 1812, and I must confess that Ayla gave me the big eye roll when I suggested we visit. But we all rallied, and off we went to what turned out to be a super informative afternoon with out being boring. None of us knew much about the War of 1812 before entering the Visitors Center, but we left with lots of knowledge and admiration for these mariners. Here are a couple of quick facts you might enjoy:
- The War of 1812 was started by the Americans declaring war on Great Britain for two main reasons: A. Great Britain was supplying arms to the Native Americans causing problems for our young countries western expansion. B. Great Britain was immersed in a prolonged war with France, and America thought they would be weak, providing the perfect opportunity for America to invade and conquer Canada.
- For the most part, the war was a ill-conceived and fought by the Americans. The Battle of Lake Erie provided a much needed victory for American forces and ultimately led to negotiations for an end to the war. In the end no one gained or lost any territory.
- Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial at Put-in-Bay is a memorial to the naval victory on Lake Erie, but more importantly it is a symbol of lasting peace between Great Britain, Canada, and the U.S.
- The border between the U.S. and Canada (over 4,000 miles) is the longest unprotected border in the world.
Ayla is a new recruit for the Travelin Johnsons.
Aside from the history, the town has lots of bed and breakfasts, some charming stores, restaurants of all shapes and size, and plenty of live music to be enjoyed by all. Our favorite group was The Travelin Johnsons—two gentleman playing acoustic guitar and singing their hearts out. Good family fun for everyone!