Once a cherished memory for Detroit residents of yesteryears, the iconic ferry ride to the Boblo Island amusement park is gearing up for a grand reintroduction. These cherished memories are now on the cusp of being revitalized for a new generation. The restoration of the S.S. Ste. Claire, one of the two iconic Boblo Boats, is nearing completion, following damage from an accidental fire in 2018.
An update shared on the official Boblo Boat SS Ste Claire Facebook account on Sunday confirmed that the restoration crew plans to complete the fourth deck by this September. It further stated that the final addition, the pilot house, will be completed either in the following spring or fall.
“In the Spring, we will turn the main deck into a museum showcasing dozens of artifacts and historical items we have amassed over the years. There will also be a souvenir stand. Our goal is to provide an opportunity for visitors to stroll the decks, reflect on memories, and get a glimpse of what the future holds,” the post mentioned.
Boblo Island amusement park, operational between 1898 and 1993, was a beloved destination for many. The S.S. Ste. Claire, alongside its sister ship, the S.S. Columbia, were key vessels transporting eager visitors to and from the park. After the park’s closure, while the S.S. Columbia found a new home in Buffalo, New York, the S.S. Ste. Claire remained closer to its roots. Notably, the S.S. Columbia too is undergoing restoration, with intentions to celebrate it as the last of its kind in the U.S.
The intertwined tales of these ships took center stage in a documentary, “Boblo Boats: A Detroit Ferry Tale”. The film encapsulates the intriguing journey of the vessels’ preservation, led by an eclectic mix of individuals including a doctor, a psychic, and an amusement park aficionado. While it first premiered in regional theaters, enthusiasts can now explore this piece of Detroit’s maritime history on Prime Video and Apple TV.
For those intrigued by the storied past of the Boblo Boats, a detailed 2021 Metro Times cover story offers further insights into this extraordinary “Ferry Tale”.
As Detroit gears up to witness the revival of a significant piece of its history, the city looks forward to creating new memories while cherishing the old.
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