Located on Lake Erie, there’s a tiny island that sits between the other Lake Erie Islands. Ballast Island Lake Erie is small but plays a key part in the area. In this article, you will learn all there is to know about Ballast Island on Lake Erie.
Overview of Ballast Island
Ballast Island sits in the western basin of Lake Erie, between South Bass Island and Middle Bass Island. This small island measures only about 5 acres. Despite its small stature, it’s played an outsized role in the region’s history and culture. Today, it’s privately owned. It can be toured from the water as you can see most of the island without setting foot on it.
1. History of Ballast Island
The story of Ballast Island is as deep and varied as Lake Erie itself. Native Americans likely used the island as a fishing spot long before European settlers arrived. But it’s the island’s role in the War of 1812 that put it on the map.
Legend has it that Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry used rocks from Ballast Island as ballast for his ships during the war. This tale gave the island its name and cemented its place in maritime lore.
But the island’s most colorful chapter began with George W. Gardner, a Cleveland shipping magnate and former mayor. Gardner fell in love with Ballast Island and saw its potential as a summer getaway.
Life on Ballast Island
Under Gardner’s ownership, Ballast Island transformed from a rocky outpost to a bustling summer community. He formed a cooperative association with friends, and soon, charming cottages dotted the landscape.
The island became a haven for water enthusiasts. Gardner’s love for boating led to the establishment of several clubs, including the renowned Longworth Canoe Club. These clubs turned Ballast Island into a hub of summer activity, with annual races drawing spectators from far and wide.
As Ballast Island’s popularity grew, so did its amenities. Here’s a quick rundown of the improvements made over the years:
- A cozy hotel for overnight guests
- A spacious dining hall for community meals
- Lush fruit trees for fresh produce
- A boat house transported from the mainland
These additions turned Ballast Island into a self-sufficient summer retreat, attracting visitors from all walks of life. Ballast Island was a playground for water enthusiasts. The Western Canoe Association held its annual meets here, drawing paddlers from across the region.
2. What is Ballast Island Like Today?
Today, Ballast Island is privately owned by one family and their children. The island is well kept with multiple houses on the island. There is a small marina for their boats on the west side. You can sometimes see contractors going to and from the island.
3. Are There Animals on Ballast Island?
Despite its small size, Ballast Island boasts a diverse ecosystem. The island is a haven for migratory birds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Keep an eye out for:
- Great Blue Herons
- American White Pelicans
- Various species of gulls and terns
- Duck species
- Canadian Geese
- Pelicans
The island’s plant life is equally impressive, with hardy species adapted to the rocky terrain and lake winds.
4. Geology Surrounding Ballast Island Lake Erie
Ballast Island’s very existence is a geological marvel. Formed by glacial activity thousands of years ago, the island is primarily composed of:
- Limestone bedrock
- Glacial till
- Wave-washed cobbles and pebbles
Over time, Lake Erie’s waves have shaped and reshaped the island, creating its unique, ever-changing shoreline. There are still ongoing efforts today to deter erosion by adding rip-rap to the shorelines. You can often see work barges coming to and from the island.
5. Ballast Island Lake Erie Navigation
Ballast Island has left an indelible mark on Lake Erie culture. It’s been featured in local art, literature, and music, capturing the imagination of creatives for generations. This island also serves as a landmark for boaters. On the North East corner, there is a navigational tower. It also serves as a marker for the channel going to Put-in-Bay!
6. Comparing Ballast Island to Other Lake Erie Islands
While Ballast Island may be smaller than its neighbors like Put-in-Bay or Middle Bass Island, it has some of the same features. Some similarities are the rocky shoreline, outlying islands and shoals, and the wildlife. Birds still call this island home like others in the area. You can still catch the same fish around Ballast that you can at the other islands! Lastly, like some of the other islands, Ballast Island is privately owned by one family and their children.
Hopefully you now better understand what makes Ballast Island Lake Erie unique. This small but important island carries so many characteristics in the Lake Erie Islands area.