Nestled among upscale homes, an abandoned Victorian-era amusement park quietly rusts away on Ontario’s Bois Blanc Island, affectionately known as “Boblo Island.” Debuting in 1898, the park was a haven of entertainment, attracting crowds with its whirling rides, melodious organ melodies, and dazzling lights. Thousands flocked to this picturesque island, seeking wholesome fun amid its enchanting attractions.
For nearly a century, reaching Boblo Island was a journey steeped in nostalgia, as classic steam-powered riverboats like the SS Ste. Clair and SS Columbia transported passengers from Detroit. Each vessel had the capacity to accommodate up to 2,500 visitors at once. Additionally, smaller ferries shuttled guests from nearby locations such as Amherstburg, Ontario, and Gibraltar, Michigan.
The island’s renowned dance hall, financed by automotive tycoon Henry Ford, once held the distinction of being the world’s second-largest. With an impressive capacity of 5,000 dancers, it hosted unforgettable evenings brimming with music and merriment. Enhancing its allure was one of the largest orchestrions globally, a marvel of engineering featuring 419 pipes and a dedicated percussion section. The dance hall was also famous for its vibrant big band nights, drawing diverse crowds, including the spirited “black and tans,” a mix of young people from various racial backgrounds who flocked to the island during the lively 1920s.
Boblo Island offered a plethora of attractions that delighted visitors of all ages, from exhilarating rides like the Nightmare, the Wild Mouse, and the Screamer to timeless amusements such as the Ferris wheel, a zoo, and the cherished “Scootaboats.” It was a place brimming with joy, earning it the affectionate moniker “the Coney Island of Michigan” among Detroit residents.
However, over time, Boblo Island’s quaint charm began to fade in the face of competition from more contemporary destinations like Cedar Point. Ultimately, in 1993, the amusement park closed its gates for the final time, marking the end of an era. Since then, Boblo Island has undergone a transformation into a haven for luxury residences. While many of the park’s structures have been dismantled, echoes of its former splendor linger amidst the century-old ruins, occasionally punctuated by distant screams and the faint strains of organ music, serving as a poignant reminder of its rich history.
As Boblo Island is now an abandoned park, it’s important to respect trespassing laws and refrain from attempting to enter the premises unlawfully. For those interested in seeing remnants of the island, accessing it via boat, such as a kayak or other watercraft, may be the safest and most suitable approach. It’s important to note that many visitors have faced barriers when trying to reach the island via ferry, being informed that it is “closed to the public.” Therefore, exercising caution and adhering to legal restrictions is crucial when exploring Boblo Island.
