What happened to Lonz Winery?
The winery, on scenic Middle Bass Island, shut down abruptly in July 2000, after a terrace collapsed, killing one guest and injuring 75 others. Seventeen years after the tragedy, the one-time party place has been reincarnated as a more family-friendly tourist destination: Middle Bass Island State Park.
What year did Lonz Winery collapse?
2000
Prior to closing, thousands of people used to board charters from Put-In-Bay to spend a summer day at Lonz. But on July 1, 2000, tragedy struck when a terrace on the west side of the winery collapsed, leaving one person dead and 75 injured.
Who owns LONZ?
Claudio Salvador
Lonz wines, now part of a corporation bearing its name, continue to be made by enologist Claudio Salvador. Born in Italy, where he received his education and experience in the art of winemaking, Claudio has been making the signature Lonz wines since 1979.
When was Lonz Winery built?
1884
In 1884, island resident Peter Lonz established his own winery on the island. The Bass Islands earned the nickname “Wine Islands” and the wines they produced were compared favorably to fine French vintages.
How do you get around Middle Bass Island?
Explore Middle Bass Island Just two miles north of its island neighbor, Put-in-Bay, Middle Bass offers a refreshing island escape with no hint of mainland frenzy. Miller Ferry runs directly to Middle Bass Island from Catawba, or board the Sonny-S Boat from the Boardwalk on Put-in-Bay 216-644-4220.
What island is Lonz Winery on?
Middle Bass Island
The Lonz Winery was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. After the tragic collapse of the terrace in July 2000, the state of Ohio purchased 124 acres on Middle Bass Island, including the shell of the Lonz Winery complex.
Is Middle Bass Island on Kelleys Island?
Neighboring both Kelleys Island and South Bass Island (Put-in-Bay), Middle Bass Island blends nature and serenity on this secluded island getaway. The historic Lonz Winery property reopened in 2017 as part of Middle Bass Island State Park. …
Who owns Ballast Island?
The offer was accepted and the Moore family became part owners of Ballast Island. At the same time two other sections of Ballast Island were for sale.
Do you need a car on Middle Bass Island?
Vehicles Going to Middle Bass Island Reservations are not required for passengers. Vehicles must be in line 20 minutes before departure or reservation is not valid. Due to heavier traffic we are unable to round trip vehicles on Saturdays, Sundays or Holidays.
Do people live on Middle Bass Island?
Middle Bass Island’s 750 acres of land is shaped like a long-necked duck with vacation houses lining the shores. The island has 500 dwellings, with about 30 full-time residents and many more seasonal residents. It is accessible by ferry, boat, or small airplane.
Is Put-in-Bay better than Kelleys Island?
Put-in-Bay, also known as South Bass Island, attracts the most interest, for better or worse. Or consider a quieter alternative to Put-in-Bay: * Kelleys Island offers lots of options across its 2,800 acres, from a terrific state park to a small downtown featuring a dozen-plus places to drink and dine.
What is the largest island in Lake Erie?
Pelee Island
Pelee Island is the largest island in Lake Erie, and is the southernmost populated place in Canada.
Where are the ruins of Kelleys Island Winery?
The huge Kelleys Island Wine Company ruins are also on private land on the southwest side of the island, behind a small trailer park. You can get to Kelleys Island from Marblehead most of the year. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes.
How big is the winery that collapsed in Ohio?
Lang said more than 40 people were flown off the island and the rest left by boat. The winery was closed after a dog searched the rubble and found no additional victims, Lang said. The Lonz Winery sits on about 120 acres of a Lake Erie island about 6 miles from the mainland.
What was the name of the winery that was destroyed in 1933?
The first building’s demise came on August 15, 1933, when sparks from a small locomotive at a rock quarry ignited a grass fire that consumed the neighborhood. The blaze destroyed the winery and the charred structure was left in ruins. Monarch Wine Company, the only winery to open again after Prohibition, survived until 1950.
When is the best time to go to Kelleys Island?
You can get to Kelleys Island from Marblehead most of the year. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes. The best time to visit is mid-May to October. Golf carts are available for rent at the ferry station. Introducing our definitive guide to the world of culinary wonders.
