Legacy Reports

Celebrating Founder’s Day at Park Hotel

As Put-in-Bay marks the 50th Founder’s Day today, Saturday, 15 June 2024, let’s look back in time to explore the rich history of Park Hotel nestled in the heart of Put-in-Bay.

Did you know this storied establishment has been a cornerstone of island hospitality since 1873?  Park Hotel has played a pivotal role in welcoming guests to the beauty of Put-in-Bay for over 150 years.  Across the ages, the Victorian hotel has witnessed countless celebrations, moments of historical significance, and been a cherished part of the island community.

Between 1820 and 1830, South Bass Island was under the jurisdiction of Huron County, Ohio; it was later joined to Ottawa County, Ohio.  In 1854, sugar and wine merchant Joseph de Rivera moved his family, three daughters and three sons (Josephine, Belle, Annie, Henry, Thomas, John) to Ohio.

According historical accounts published by the Historical Marker Database, de Rivera bought South Bass, Middle Bass, Sugar, Gibraltar, Ballast and Starve Islands. He hired a county engineer to survey the area in 10-acre lots and encouraged settlement by helping German immigrants purchase land to plant vineyards.  There was no actual village prior to the creation of the township in 1861.  The portion of South Bass Island known as Village of Put-in-Bay incorporated in 1877.

Let’s celebrate Founder’s Day while we cherish the memories which make the island so special!

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