Bois Blanc Island – From The Rebellions of 1837 to Boblo and Today

Bois Blanc Island – From The Rebellions of 1837 to Boblo and Today

Host:   Cindy Prince (Amico)

Join us as we explore the history and exciting future of Bois Blanc Island.  After a short ferry ride from Amherstburg, we will explore the island that most locals fondly remember as “Boblo”.  On our tour we will visit many of the historic buildings constructed for the amusement park, including the iconic Dance Pavillion built in 1913.  We will visit the Bois Blanc Island Lighthouse, and The Blockhouse National Historic Site of Canada and learn about the Rebellions of 1837-1838.  Finally, we will hear about the ongoing efforts to protect the natural environment on the island and the learn about what’s happening today as the island is redeveloped into a vibrant residential community.

About the host:

Boblo Island is best known for its past use as an amusement park which operated from June 18, 1898, until its closure on September 30, 1993. Its amusement rides were sold in 1994.

The park was located on Bois Blanc Island, Ontario just north of where the Detroit River meets Lake Erie.

History: 

In 1898, the Detroit, Windsor, and Belle Isle Ferry Company established a recreation park on the Detroit River, about 18 miles southwest of Windsor.  The park became known as Boblo Island and its first amusement park rides were in operation by 1910. The Whip ride was installed in 1920. In 1949, the island was purchased by the Browning family.

The Browning family added more attractions in the following years, including a roller coaster, Ferris wheel, fun house, and more. A miniature railroad was built around the island in the 1960s. The swan paddle boat ride was added in 1970, along with the Thunder Bolt roller coaster in 1973. The Browning Family sold the island in 1979, which led to a series of different owners until purchased by John Oram in 1994. 

In late 1995, the site began to be marketed for residential development. Townhouses and condominiums were proposed in 1997. Boblo Developments became the new owner in 2005 as a result of a receivership process.

Event location: The walk will start and end at Amherstburg Ferry Company (340 Dalhousie St. Amherstburg) in the Beach House building.

Please note: this walk has a short ferry ride over to the island. Everyone must be registered in order to attend.

Type of Event:

Jane's Walk - Guided walking tour, ferry ride, and trolley ride

Audience:

All ages welcome

Accessibility notes:

• Walk-on ferry ride over to the island

• Easy route: paved sidewalks/pathways, minimal hills

• Baby stroller friendly: paved paths and no stairs

• 2.5 KM of walking

Is there a bathroom nearby?

Bathroom available at starting location

Where can attendees park?

• Free street parking around the starting/ending location

• Free parking lot at the starting/ending location

Are dogs welcome?

No dogs, please.

How much walking is involved?

Approximately 2.5 km of walking + ferry ride

Click below to see walk route: