Middle Bass Island: Cinderella of the Bass Islands?

8 June 2023

The Brothers Grimm tell a tale of good fortune and condemnation (for wickedness and falsehood) in the world renowned story of Cinderella. While South Bass and North Bass Islands are not really evil step-sisters to Middle Bass, the harmony of great island experiences might just reside, well, in the middle!

Middle Bass Island was sold in 1864 to entrepreneurs, including Andrew Wehrle. He established the Golden Eagle Wine Cellars, which, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, became one of the largest wineries in the country.

The David Rumsey Historical Map Collection provides amazing views:

In 1884, islander Peter Lonz established his own winery on the island. The remnants of this are, as Susan Glaser puts it, “the centerpiece of a knockout, waterfront state park.” The Lonz Winery preservation stands as permanent affirmation of vinicultural heritage, as does Heineman Winery operations at Put-in-Bay. The extra attraction at the Lonz property is its status as an Ohio State Park, complete with a marina, huge picnic shelter,Press House with concessions, and primitive camping spots!

Miller Boat Line runs ferry service to Middle Bass Island for passengers and vehicles, but island heritage is accented by the service from Sonny-S Boat Line. The family owned and operated vessel, Sonny-S, is a classic Lake Erie fishing vessel built by J. W. NOLAN & SONS of Erie, Pennsylvania, in 1948. Operations transport passengers and bicycles between Middle Bass Island’s Main Dock and The Boardwalk at Put-in-Bay. Fares are reasonable, the captains are jovial, and the ride is memorable. For schedules and general information, visit Sonny-S Boat Line on the Web!

Although, as William Shakespeare reminds us, “The wine-cup is the little silver well, where truth, if truth there be, doth dwell,” the harmony of Middle Bass Island lives in several other wonderful corners.

MBI East Point Preserve is a kayak accessible shoreline property with a walking trail. Dedicated in October of 2010, this spot captures the essence of natural island tranquility.

The Kuehnle State Wildlife Area is home to an array of plant and animal life with songbirds, wading birds, fish, turtles, salamanders, and the Lake Erie water snake. A peaceful spot which allows a respite from mainland tension, it lies on the middle-north part of the island just past the airport.

Not all the blessings of a visit to Middle Bass focus on the environment. Indeed, for a taste of local color a stop at the General Store is a must! The only market on the island, Middle Bass General Store is a friendly watering hole with highly rated Uncle Joe’s Pizza, standard grocery and hardware items, fresh coffee, and free WiFi!

For the unique summer holiday experience, you’ll want to consider a visit to J.F. Walleye’s Restaurant. The pool is refreshing; the summer-style menu offers great variety, including Panko Walleye, Brew City Battered Fries, and a Taco S’primo Salad.

St. Hazards is a village on Middle Bass that comes alive with people, music, and island fun every summer. The offer camping, cabins, chalets, and villas. Their punch line is, “Original Caribbean getaway in Ohio.” It is certainly worth a look-see!