Historical

Celebrate Jose DeRivera June 10th! One of the most heartfelt weekends of the summer is Founder’s Day. Jose DeRivera was a Hispanic merchant who purchased the South Bass, Middle Bass, Sugar, Gibraltar, Ballast, and Starve Islands for the sum of $44,000 in 1854. Then, Jose sold off parcels of the land to the community for a fraction of the price. He sold the school property for $1 and the St. Paul’s church property for $10. Founder’s Day is in place... more information

BENSON FORD SHIP HOUSE TOURS RETURN ON JUNE 11TH AND AUGUST 27TH, 2023! We’re extremely excited to tell you about your chance to tour one of the most unique houses in America, right on South Bass Island! Put-in-Bay’s famous Benson Ford Ship House will be open to the public for tours on Sunday, June 11th, 2023. The cost of the tour is $40, and all proceeds will be going to various island promotional and charitable causes. THE SHIP HOUSE IS... more information

Aye Aye Captain! Be a Pirate From June 23rd-25th! For over 10 years in a row pirates be invadin’ Put-in-Bay’s downtown harbor on Friday at 4:00 PM to open the Put-in-Bay Pyrate Fest. Grab your wooden leg and your pet parrot, because you’re going to need them. Saturday will be an exciting day for kids and adult full of fun activities. Make sure you don’t miss the Pirate Parade downtown. Adults and children are both encouraged to participate in this... more information

BENSON FORD SHIP HOUSE TOURS RETURN ON JUNE 11TH AND AUGUST 27TH, 2023! We’re extremely excited to tell you about your chance to tour one of the most unique houses in America, right on South Bass Island! Put-in-Bay’s famous Benson Ford Ship House will be open to the public for tours on Sunday, August 27th, 2023. The cost of the tour is $40, and all proceeds will be going to various island promotional and charitable causes. THE SHIP HOUSE IS... more information

Enjoy Historical Weekend September 8th-10th! If you love great summer weather and good times, and you’re also a history buff, this is the Put-in-Bay Ohio weekend for you. Put-in-Bay Historical Weekend is a grand occasion where the island remembers its incredible place in American history with reenactments, live entertainment, and art. It’s an excellent opportunity to have fun, learn, and enjoy Put-in-Bay for a weekend. Book your lodging early! The Battle of Lake Erie The War of 1812 was not... more information