History of the abandoned Boblo Island Amusement Park
Once a thriving amusement park, the Abandoned Boblo Island Amusement Park has a fascinating history spanning over 95 years. Let’s delve into the captivating story of this former amusement park, which operated from 1898 until its closure on September 30, 1993.
Boblo Island Amusement Park, located on Bois Blanc Island, Ontario, was known as Detroit’s Coney Island. It offered many attractions, including thrilling rides like Screamer, The Nightmare, Falling Star, Wild Mouse, and Sky Streak. Visitors could also enjoy classic amusement park features such as a Ferris wheel, a zoo, and a carousel. One of the park’s most remarkable features was a dance hall financed by Henry Ford and rumored to be designed and built by the renowned Detroit architect Albert Kahn. This dance hall was the second largest in the world, accommodating up to 5,000 dancers at full capacity. It boasted a magnificent Welte orchestrion, standing. With 419 pipes, it is 16 feet high and 14 feet wide. And a percussion section.
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The park’s main mode of transportation was the iconic “Bob-Lo boats,” the SS Ste. Clair and SS Columbia. These majestic steamers transported approximately 2,500 passengers each between Detroit and the island. For more than 85 years, these vessels served as a gateway to adventure and excitement for visitors.
Unfortunately, due to financial challenges in the 1990s, Boblo Island Amusement Park changed ownership multiple times and eventually met its closure on September 30, 1993. Following the park’s closure, the amusement rides were sold off, marking the end of an era. However, the island itself remained abandoned for a short time. It transformed an exclusive, gated housing community featuring upscale residences and a private clubhouse.
Bois Blanc Island, the home of the former Boblo Island Amusement Park, is just above the mouth of the Detroit River. It is a picturesque island approximately 18 miles from Detroit and can be reached via a convenient five-minute ferry ride from Amherstburg, Ontario. Previously, the park was served by not only the SS Ste. Clair and SS Columbia, but also smaller ferries from the Michigan towns of Gibraltar and Amherstburg, which were nearer the park on the Detroit River.
In 2018, an exploration of the abandoned side of Boblo Island revealed an intriguing contrast between the east and west sides of the island. Despite being closed to the public, some visitors were allowed access to capture the remnants of the amusement park through photography and videography. Notably, the dance hall and other structures remained sealed, leaving only possible exterior shots.
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In recent years, there have been discussions about developing homes on the abandoned side of Boblo Island. Authorization and approvals have been granted, paving the way for potential residential development. As time progresses, the fate of the dance hall, theater, and other remaining structures will become clearer. It is exciting to witness how this once-thriving amusement park will transition into a vibrant residential community while preserving the island’s unique heritage.
Previously, the ease of access to Boblo Island was notable, as there were no stringent checks or charges for ferry rides. Visitors recall the absence of No Trespassing signs, except for a “Road Closed” sign indicating restricted vehicle access. Surprisingly, people were seen walking their dogs on the abandoned side of the island, showing a relatively lenient approach to exploring the area. However, it is important to note that trespassing is prohibited, and visitors caught trespassing are asked to delete any unauthorized photos they may have taken.
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In recent times, the management of Boblo Island has taken steps to address security concerns and protect the privacy of the island’s residents. Measures include the installation of No Trespassing signs, securing open buildings, and improving the screening process for visitors arriving via the ferry service. These initiatives aim to maintain the island’s exclusivity and prevent disruption to the tranquil residential atmosphere.
Boblo Island holds a unique place in the hearts of many, evoking nostalgia for the once-thriving amusement park and the joyful memories it created. The transition to a luxurious residential community preserves the island’s historical significance. With efforts to balance preservation and progress, Boblo Island seeks to be portrayed as a serene haven of million-dollar homes, meticulously maintained yards and luxury vehicles. It is a testament to the island’s transformation and showcases its vibrant future while acknowledging its rich past.
While the abandoned Boblo Island Amusement Park may no longer be accessible to visitors, its legacy lives on. The transition from a bustling amusement park to an upscale residential community is a testament to the island’s adaptability and transformation. Although exploring the amusement park’s remnants firsthand is impossible, the island’s unique history continues to captivate the imagination. Boblo Island stands as a symbol of reinvention and embraces its promising future as an exclusive residential retreat.
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If you are considering visiting Boblo Island to discover the remnants of the once-thriving amusement park, you should reconsider your plans. The island’s residents and management uphold the privacy and tranquility of the community, ensuring that the island is enjoyed in a manner that respects its current status. Remember, it is always best to honor their wishes and avoid unauthorized access. After all, preserving the island’s unique heritage and character is paramount.
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