Happy New Year Everyone!

I am currently researching Girty's Island in the Maumee River, near Florida Ohio. Looking for artifacts from a time long ago.

So far I know that Simon Girty hid there and his brother George had a trading post, both in the 1700's. I have also learned that there was other structures built on the island in the early 1900's, one being a victorian amusement park. I have also heard rumors that there was also a dance hall at one time.

This past summer, I found the remains of an old foundation and the remains of a log used in the building with the log tag still attached. This foundation is nothing like what we see today. I am looking for information that may lead me to what remains I have found so I can identify the time in which it was built. I am also looking to know what all structures once stood on the island. This would help date any artifacts I may find.

Sincerely hoping someone know something. :)

I put this response in the other thread... hope it helps?

I wonder if you've had an opportunity to meet with
The City of Defiance, City Historian Randy Buchman?

I know he is EXTREMELY knowledgeable about the area and would highly suggest contacting him. He has done digs at some of the forts... etc.

In the 1780's Simon Girty and his brother had a Trading Post in the bend of the Maumee
River on Highway 24, about 7 miles from Defiance State Park, on Girty's Island.
Outlaw Simon Girty had a cabin near Fort Miami and robbed pioneers and helped the Indians(not the ones at your local MiniMart) fight colonist During the Indian War of 1790-
1796, using Fort Miami for protection. He ammassed a large store of coins and other valuables which he buried in various caches around the fort. Girty went to Canada in 1800 and was never allowed to reenter the U.S. and his plundered treasure was never recovered.
Fort Miami, AKA Fort Campbell, founded by the French in 1748 on the site of a Fur Trading post and stockade. The Fort was taken over by the British from 1763-1812.

I put this response in the other thread... hope it helps?

I wonder if you've had an opportunity to meet with
The City of Defiance, City Historian Randy Buchman??

I know he is EXTREMELY knowledgable about the area and would highly suggest contacting him. He has done digs at some of the forts... etc.


No I haven't, but I will now. Thank you so much! My search started three years ago with a ghost story of Simon Girty of Girty's Island from a friend who grew up on the river. I had no idea how rich the history is on the river I love so much. I have been hooked ever since.

You've got me very interested in visiting the island. My dad said he was there once about 40 years ago. Is the island owned by anyone? Open for visitors? Or what is the situation? Maybe it is a state property? Just wondering. Would it make a good place to do primitive camping in warmer weather?

Again, I want to thank you for your info. I now have Professor Buchman's e-mail (it only took an hour of searching. Found him at Defiance College) and I plan on e-mailing him next.

The island is not state property and who owns it now is what I am currently searching for also. I do know it has been sold several times going back in history.

Many people go to the island for fun in the sun. Mostly to party. I know because on my adventures, I have picked up their trash. It makes me very sad that these people don't have any respect for nature or history.

You can go to Henry County history sight and get driving directions to the island. However, I don't know if you can get on the island without a boat. If you can, it would be from the north side of the river. I am planning a trip now to see if it is possible. The best time to explore would be in the winter or early spring because in many places, the island is like a jungle with so much under-growth. Getting these driving directions, I discovered that a small part of the erie canal still stands just west of the island. I plan on seeing this too.

I am dying to get back to the old foundation I found (found it right before boating season ended for us). I know this must be very old because it is not a solid foundation. Just corner cement pieces with cement barriers like blocks every eight to ten feet apart where the walls would have been. I also found an old septic canal made of brick that took waste water away from this structure.

I also came across an old Oliver tractor from the 40's and what is left of an old car. How they got this stuff on the island, I haven't a clue. I also found several old junk piles around and near the foundation area. I was so busy going through these piles for clues as to what era they were, I never got a chance to use my metal detector. That is why I can't wait to get back there. Plus the chance of finding something from the 1700's on top of something from the late 1800's, early 1900's, wow! I am not looking for riches, just the opportunity to find and hold a piece of history in my hands. If you get a chance, you must go back to the island.

Awesome... my dad told me it had been used as sort of an amusement park a long time back, and that people were ferried over. Can't wait to get out that way!

Awesome... my dad told me it had been used as sort of an amusement park a long time back, and that people were ferried over. Can't wait to get out that way!

This is great news! That means that the facts I found this past weekend is true! Who doesn't drop some change at an amusement part. Wouldn't it be great to find an old dime or quarter from the early 1900's! Did your Dad ever mention the time frame of the park?

And my biggest news is that Professor Buchman e-mailed me back! He is currently switching over to a new lap top with a new program. Once done, he promised to send me much information that will help in my search.

I don't know where you live, but if I can help you to get on the island, you are more then welcome to come with me and my husband by boat if it can't be reached by land.

Your postings are quite interesting. I used to live in the Napoleon area and would venture into the countryside looking for old farmhouses, etc. One thing I would like to tell you about when you are hunting out on the island. Should you come across any old glass bottles buried (or unburied) save them and bring them home as they can be worth quite a tidy sum for the real old ones. There is an antique bottle club that I used to belong to that meets once a month in Wadsworth area at the local Eagles Club. They would meet the last Wed or Thurs of the month. They would find your bottles most interesting. They have a web site - Ohio Bottle Club.

Thanks for the tip! Last summer, I was out picking up aluminum cans from the ditch along the road... a very slow and only half buried treasure? But I found an old blue bottle that I brought home. Before that, I even found an unused police bullet on one of my hikes... I turned it in, and it was estimated at 20 years old... how they could tell I have no idea but it was interesting... a few other items I found that way include various tools... so one never knows what to expect... my mom once put some cans in her van only to have a snake come out of one of them and slither around under the seats and over her feet before they could get it out of the van!!

They have guest speakers at their monthly meetings. They are a fun bunch of people from all walks of life. The members bring in their old bottle collections for everyone to goo over. There was a dig in Akron where a lot of bottles were uncovered from a bottle plant back in the late 1860's in that area. It was where a new library was going up. The curator of the local museum was there with the actual bottles for everyone to look over, handle, etc. They are most interested in anything old from Ohio, not just old bottles. They like old houses also. One speaker happily educated us in the different architectural styles of the different homes in Ohio going back to the 1700's. I had no idea we had such diverse architectural styles here. It was quite fascinating.

By the way, some of the old bottles are worth big bucks, too. So you might want to keep that in mind if you unearth an old bottle. The club members would be more than delighted to help you discover how old your bottle is and what it is worth and maybe buy it off you as they are always looking for "finds". They go out on their own private digs also all over this area. They have old milk bottle collections also. Who would think that an old milk bottle could be worth anything!

I live in the Keys, and look for old things on the bottom of the ocean or on land and in the Mangroves. One time, while my girl was shopping, I ran through the woods doing a quick exploration, and found the coolest bottle.
It said "John Walker and Sons", 1820, it had a big wide neck with a lead seal around the neck, Kind of a Mateuse type bottle. Looked like maybe had been in a mold or something as it has swirl on the surface of the bottle, with Raised Flowers. Also the bottom you could almost slide a pencil under it, as it was rounded, as to be able to rest on your leg more comfortably. Went to bottle sites, no on can identify.
Went to John walker site and the have an "1820" but that is a modern bottle, I think they never heard of it either. It looks 180 years old?

That does sound like the real McCoy. I'd contact Johnny Walker factory and see if they can help you. Most old bottles were hand blown and not in molds however. You can tell if it's handblown from the pontil mark on the bottom of the botte. If it has a pontil mark you have yourself a rare old bottle.

I sent that bottle Out West to a family member from Edinburogh(Forgive spelling). They had a leak in the Bathroom, an idiot contractor sealed area in plastic, which created a mold factory. House had to be destroyed, Storage company had moved items into storage,
Not safe for her to have the Bottle? Minerals and books I have been sending my niece.
Their was a lawsuit, Storage company "Lost" many things,among them was that bottle.
It is the only one I ever saw. Except later saw one on eBay. I bid on it, but did not keep up
And did not get bottle, I believe it to be the same one. Hindsight, I should have "Looked at sellers other items". The only way this could be solved is if eBay, could Verify Item was from "Vegas", It would give them cause to look further, I can not get a hold of the right person.
If Seller worked at the company or associates, would be easy for Detective to Figure out,
Down here, their success rate is not good, Many crimes here go unsolved.

Ebay is the happy recipient of many stolen items. I've read many articles where the thief waits a week or so and then lists the stolen items on Ebay. I hope it was not too long ago, but then if someone actually bought the bottle you'd have to prove you owned it in the first place, that it was "lost" and that they are in the possession of stolen goods.

Rule of thumb. Anytime you give or lend anything to anybody... don't look to see it coming back in a big hurry, if ever! I don't lend books to anyone. I just outright give them away as I never see them again.

Your postings are quite interesting. I used to live in the Napoleon area and would venture into the countryside looking for old farmhouses, etc. One thing I would like to tell you about when you are hunting out on the island. Should you come across any old glass bottles buried (or unburied) save them and bring them home as they can be worth quite a tidy sum for the real old ones. There is an antique bottle club that I used to belong to that meets once a month in Wadsworth area at the local Eagles Club. They would meet the last Wed or Thurs of the month. They would find your bottles most interesting. They have a web site - Ohio Bottle Club.

Thank you very much for your information. So far I have found a particle bottle (the very top and the opening). My friend who was with me is a chemist and told me to keep it for two reasons. The clear had became pearl-like, which means it should be around a hundred years old (the time it takes for glass to become pearl-like). And the opening has no seam, meaning it was hand form, not processed. Sice this is your area, are these facts true?

The same friend lives in an old farm house in Portage, Ohio. In his back yard, he has dug up many old bottles and he gave me one. It is a complete bottle, small. On one side, in raised lettering states "DOCT MARSHALLS". On the other side "SNUFF" is in raised lettering. Like the partial I found, it too is clear glass which has became pearl-like. What can you tell me about this bottle?

From Washington PA, on an old farm, I found a two blue mason jar. Do these hold any historical value? On the same trip, I also collected several old soda bottles, labeled Washington Cola Company, which Coke bought out many, many years ago. Is there any worth to these bottles?

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Can't tell you the worth of the bottles but I can tell you that when the bottles have no side seams they were definitely hand blown and signify earlier bottles. Old mason jars are sometimes rare and valuable. Some people collect these rarer ones. The value again is whether they are rare. The fact you collect the old coke bottles you will notice that each different community had their own bottles made especially for them. Years ago this was the practice as there really was no trucking industry as we know now existed and they had to have the bottles manufactured relatively close to where the product was made.

http://www.ohiobottles.freehomepage.com/ This is the home page for the Ohio Bottle Club. They have what is called "Shows" around the state of Ohio periodically throughout the year. I just checked the site and it's not been updated in awhile as Brian Arman must be busy again. But you can shoot him an email and find out if any shows are coming to your area this calendar year. I know him and he's a nice guy in his 20's.

You may take your bottles to these shows and usually there are several enthusiasts there would will be more than happy to help you discover just how much your bottles are worth. I am surprised that a teeny tiny bottle that once held medicine would be worth more than a much bigger older bottle. The value depends on its scarcity. Ohio has the largest old bottle club in the nation, by the way.

I do have to warn you, though, once you start collecting and discovering old bottles... you're going to be hooked! But seriously, it's a fun hobby to have if you like digging around. The best places to find bottles are around old properties like old farmhouses in the family dump or the family privy (believe it or not) as they really didn't have trash collection available back in the 1800's and a family would just throw any and everything in the privy and when it would get filled up they'd just dig a new one nearby and start all over again! I'd hear stories from the members about privy and trash pile digging finding all kinds of neat valuable items and bottles.

I don't remember if there is any kind of entrance fee for the shows, but if there is, it is well worth the entrance fee as old bottles are fascinating. They also have loads of good food available that the members of the club cook themselves. Very good food by the way. These people sure know how to eat. If you also can come to the monthly meetings in Wadsworth, usually in the evenings starting at 6:30PM and running till 9:30PM or so and they always have some kind of snack free of charge available. The yearly dues are in the $15 range for a whole family. That entitles you to get the monthly newsletter called the Swirl mailed to you. That little monthly newsletter has lots of color pictures and plenty of history of old bottles.

I'd love to hear more of your adventures on Girty's Island also as I am fascinated with old Ohio. Also, if you can locate where you think a house once was I'm sure you will find a real treasure trove in the family junk pit.

I have a signed first edition book about Ohio's history starting back in the 1700's that I got at Goodwill for 25 cents. This area used to be called the Western Reserve as it actually had something to do with Connecticut!

Connecticut Western Reserve - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Connecticut_Western_Reserve)

This link talks about how the area got the name... My son's one ancestor actually came to Cleveland as a surveyor with Moses Cleaveland. I've tried to find official documents listing all the members of the survey party, but the closest I have come is that a party of approximately 23 men (I don't remember without looking it up again) but I didn't find any names... The family story is that he was offered land where Public Square is now located in Cleveland, but instead chose land east of the area as payment for his work...

The Moses Cleaveland survey party had a Seth Pease along as a surveyor and in 1796 he was astronomer and surveyor and returned the following year as chief surveyor. In 1806 he was commissioned to survey the area west of the Cuyahoga River. He made a map of Cleveland at the time of the first survey and one of the Western Reserve two years later. His field books and journals have been valuable sources of information. During the Jefferson and Madison administrations he served as assistant postmaster to General Gideon Granger, his brother in law.

Seth Pease and Abraham Tappen made an early map of the Connecticut Western Reserve in 1798.

James Kingsbury was the first permanent settler in the Western Reserve coming from Alsted, New Hampshire in 1796. He became a Judge in 1800 and Elected a member of the Ohio Legislature in 1805.

Moses Cleaveland, a graduate of Yale and a lawyer, made a land purchase of $32,600 and was selected as the agent of the Connecticut Land Company. In company with civil engineers, mathematicians, surveyors, an astronomer, a commissary, boatmen, and many helpers he undertook the long trip to the Western Reserve in May, 1796. His instructions were to make treaties with the Indians, to lay out a city, and to lead the survey of the entire Western Reserve.

This is from the book A Pictorial History of the Western Reserve 1796 to 1860 book I have by Margaret Manor Butler.

At least I found two additional names for you to try and research!

If you go to the north shore of Girty's Island, there you will find Gunn Cemetery. I can't recall his first name, but "Mr" Gunn fought in the Rev. war, then returned and build the house that one of his relatives still lives in today (Eberle's). It is on SR 424, light blue, and across the highway from a "sheep grazing area." Just a little more info. Also, in Napoleon Russell Patterson is a tremendous source of history. You could get find out how to get ahold of him through the historical society across from the Napoleon Public Library. While your researching Girty's, inquire about the brass cannon supposedly off the Eastern point of the island. ;)

I am familiar with the Gunn family name. The land they live on is still called Girty's Point. Simon Girty had a log cabin on that land that still stood when the Gunn family took over the land many, many years ago.

As for the brass cannon, through my research, it is said that it was long ago removed from the Island. Have you came across anything that makes this fact true? I would think that long ago, a historical society would have collected this item.

Would you know anything about a victorian amusement park that once was on the island? Or a old time dance hall? My research has told me that it was there, but for the life of me, I can't find the name of the park. I know that a steam ferry named the "Pastime" ferried people to the park (I found a picture of the boat, so I know that part is true).. That is far as I have gotten. Dead end!

Every time the Island comes up, someone mentions the cannon... sorta like a folk-story. I was told (unconfirmed) that a group of researchers looked for it some time ago, but if you're familiar with the river bottom, it cold have sunk to China by now. :)

Another person you may want to contact in Napoleon is Attorney David Meekison, Sr.
He has helped me identifiy a picture that I was researching from the 1930's. He looked at it and IMMEDIATELY told me who it was. Other than that, My Grandmother (90 YOA) has mentioned the dance hall. I'll see what I can find out.

Just curious... do you plan on publishing your findings, or is this a personal quest?

Yes, I am VERY familiar with the river bottom and I am still laughing! That was good! :)

This is just a personal quest. When I first started boating, friends who grown up on the river took me to Girty's Island with the tale of Simon Girty walking the island at night. That started my research and I have been going strong now for three plus years. Doing my research on Girty's Island has taught me so much about the canal, that Providence Park was a town at one time, the building of the dams, Turkey Foot Creek, the town of Texas, Battle of Fallen Timbers, etc.. I just can't get enough. I am just amazed how much history is along that part of the river (I am originally from Michigan). To find a small piece of that history thrills me to no end. I have concentrated on the Island first since that is what started my quest and it is listed as a boater's resort, so I believe it is okay for me to walk the island.

By researching all that was on the island long ago, will help me with dating something I may find. For example, last summer I found an old foundation unlike anything I have seen before. It wasn't a complete foundation, just corners and side pieces placed every eight to ten feet. Now I need to know if it was George Girty's trading post, the amusement park, or the dance hall. What ever it was, was built with logs. One badly decayed log remained with the metal tag still attached that numbered what wall and row that log belong to (my first treasure).

I want to thank you for your information and the good laugh! Since you mentioned the cannon, you should know the ghost story, that started this for me, revolves around that cannon. It is said that at night, Simon Girty comes out and polishes the cannon where it used to stand. I don't think I will ever go the island at night...

My grandfather was born on Girty's Island in 1897. Yes to amusement park, yes to dance hall, yes to the Girty brothers but also include Indians.

My grandfather was born on Girty's Island in 1897. Yes to amusement park, yes to dance hall, yes to the Girty brothers but also include Indians.


That is wonderful information! If your grandfather was born on the island, then a home once stood on the island also. Would you know the general location of the home? How did they get to and from the island? My research states that farming was done on the island because of the rich soil. Was your grandfather one of those who farmed the land? Another person who I spoke with through Ask Me, his father-in-law once farmed the island. If you don't mind me asking, what is your grandfather's family name. The family names that I know so far who once owned the island are Wait, Chalutz, and Chalutz.

Is there anything pasted down in the family that states the names of the amusement park or the dance hall? The period when these structures were there?

I didn't mean to offend anyone by not mentioning Indians, but I haven't nor will I ever forget the Indians. My grandmother on my Dad's side is American Indian (she just turned 89) and I am very proud of what little part I have inherit from her. To be honest, that has been the hardest and the saddest part of this research. So much fighting and loss and I feel it deeply. It hurts me. I will never understand why everyone couldn't just live side-by-side. There was so much to share. I know it was possible because Peter Manor, the founder of the town of Providence (now Providence Park) was very close friends with a great Indian Chief. That is how Peter got his land, his friend gave it to him.

I was kind of thinking that perhaps history needs to be rewritten for Simon Girty as far as him being considered a traitor. From what I have been able to find, he was closely affiliated with the Indians... Native Americans to be PC... and I feel that his allegiance was justified. His country was that of the Native Americans and it seems to me that he tried to keep the lands from being taken from their control. It is rare in history to find someone who did not treat them as savages to be taken advantage of and forced off their lands.

This guy was one of the earliest activists and seems to have been labeled as a traitor as a result. He really needs to be studied closer.

Thanks for answering! I'm really just starting to delve into this whole Girty's Island thing, but my dad brought it up this past weekend when I was there for his 85th birthday! My great-grandpa's name was Michael Cramer and so far story has it that he and his wife lived on the island and got back and forth by barge. During the winter they had to move to the 'mainland' because if the river wasn't solid they couldn't get back and forth. There's something in the hisotry about great-grandpa and Simon Girty and I think a sqaw. When I get more I'll let you know.
Also, I too think Simon Girty gets a bad rap in the history books. Don't know facts, just a feeling.
Writing from work, so will be in touch later.

I was kind of thinking that perhaps history needs to be rewritten for Simon Girty as far as him being considered a traitor. From what I have been able to find, he was closely affiliated with the Indians... Native Americans to be PC... and I feel that his allegiance was justified. His country was that of the Native Americans and it seems to me that he tried to keep the lands from being taken from their control. It is rare in history to find someone who did not treat them as savages to be taken advantage of and forced off of their lands.

This guy was one of the earliest activists and seems to have been labeled as a traitor as a result. He really needs to be studied closer.

I agree with you! Here is his story GREATLY summarized: When Simon was a young boy living in Pennsylvania, the French and Indian War happened. He and his family sought safety with the Delaware Indians at Fort Granville. Soon that fort was taken over capturing everyone staying there. The Seneca Indians rescued Simon and brought him to Ohio (he was in his early teens at this time). The Seneca Indians adopted him as one of their own.
Later down the road he was reunited with his mother. When the American Revolution broke out, Simon served as an interpreter. He worked hard to make peace, but grow tired of what was being done to the Native Americans and quit. This is why was has been stated as being a traitor in history. He was labeled "the white savage" when the Delaware Indians captured and tortured Colonel William Crawford in 1782 in retaliation for the Gnadenhutten Massacre where 96 Delaware Indians were killed. Men, woman, and their children. Simon was present during this tortured and when Williams begged him to end his tortured by shooting him, Simon did not. If he had, this would have meant his own death by this own people for stopping their justice. This one main event is what labeled him as we read about him in history.

Hello All! I was "invited" to this thread with a specific question... and then invited to post the answer! Cool! :) I love personal invites... makes me feel special!

Here's the original question asked of me in a PM: Hey, I wanted to ask if you've ever came across much information on Simon Girty in your historical research? There has been some discussion of him on here, but I thought you might be interested...

Seems he was raised by Indians after being captured... was present at numerous Indian battles. He was considered to be a traitor to the Americans... he sided with Americans and then with English at various battles... I am wondering if there is a way to have history take another look at him...

Seems like he may have been playing both sides in an effort to promote the best advantage for native americans...

In that way, he may have been one of the first Civil Rights advocates??? Any ideas or something you might be interested in???

My answer:
See, this is the perfect example of why I love history! History is a record of what happened, but through the eyes of so many different opinions.

I have heard both sides - the side that he was branded a traitor leading to his ultimate settling in Canada, rather than the US. And also the side that he was simply misunderstood and mis-recorded in the pages of history.

The basic facts stand true:

- He was captured and raised by the Indians.
- He was 23 when he was "returned" to civilization.
- When he was returned, he left the Indians with detailed knowledge of over 10 Indian dialects - a useful and viable commodity for that day.
- Due to his fluency in Indian dialects, he was immediately claimed by the British Indian Dept (is that what it was called?) and served as a liaison.
- He befriended Simon Kenton (a very important character trait that comes up again in his history)
-He was disenchanted with the British Dept because of his lack of promotion, even though he deserved it, but could not bypass prejudice and yes, civil rights issues.
- He saved Simon Kenton from death (stake? Burning?) at the hands of Iroquois? Mohawk? Can't remember exactly.
- He tried to save Colonel Crawford but was told that he would take his place if he continued in his appeal... this tells me that he didn't just simply stand by and watch, but that he really appealed and did what he could.

All this adds up to a man who was what you say, a civil rights activist. Not because of his color or his heritage, but because of his experiences. He was raised by the Indians, an obvious no-no at the time... but he made the most of it, tried to make a difference, and was still rejected by the societal norm.

So, yes, I do believe that he was one of the first Civil Rights activists, and yes, I do believe that history should take another look at Simon Girty.

Great question! I tend to look at the whole picture - pro and con if you will - and then form a conclusion.

There is so much more to his story - the British Dept... being a Lieutenant in the Virginia Militia... so much more... but in my humble opinion, he was a misunderstood man who was trying to make the best of his past and coming to terms with who he was.

Forgot to say that yes, I agree with your interpretation of Simon Girty as doing what was necessary to secure the fairest of treatment to the Native Americans.

I think he really did have a respect and a personal "duty" to protect the interests of the Native Americans. Historical documents and history books have recorded his efforts to do what he could to give back to the Native Americans that raised him... despite what seemed to be traitorous actions. Historical records have proven that everything wasn't as black and white as we would like to believe it was when it came to the Native Americans.

And I would love to know more...

If I remember hearing correctly girty's island was also the site of 4-H camp before Camp Palmer.

Also I would like to know what you know about the area especially the turkeyfoot region(its my backyard), and where to find more. Please email me at [email protected]

Thanks

Sorry I know nothing of the Turkeyfoot region other than some reference to it on line.

I did go out to see Girty's Island today from the road. What a mess! From what I could see, a huge tangle of trees, weeds, and whatnot that looked like it was soaked in a lot of mud. It looked so different in the early autumn!

I also heard mention of the cannon story while I was checking to see if I was looking at the right place...

Here is something on Turkeyfoot?
toledoblade.com -- History on the rocks: Researcher says Turkey Foot Rock is upside down (http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080227/ART16/802270316)

I'm watching an old Daniel Boone movie tonight, and guess who was portrayed as a major bad guy... Simon Girty! The name of the movie is Daniel Boone, Trail Blazer.

Just found it interesting. That led me to search for a little more information...

Re: Jacob Teter/ Update, Samuel G Teater Simon Girty (http://genforum.genealogy.com/teter/messages/605.html)

Not sure that is all correct, but has some interesting connections... and talks about the Girty's

The name Gibson is also in my family tree, so I'm going to have to do a bit more research on that line... It's a very difficult one to trace though.

I went to the Henry County Ohio courthouse on Friday, and was told that Girty's Island belongs to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

I am a Girty, on my father's side and I claim Simon Girty as a distant uncle of mine. Yes, I have read of Girty Island in a History of Ohio book I found in the reference section of the Toledo, Lucas Co. Library. I have also read many Historically based novels that have had details of the escapades and movements of the Girty brothers. (James A. Thom, "Warrior Woman") I pass across the Maumee River each morning going to work and looking at the mist on the water it brings to mind "Girty Island" and all of the actions of those times. This morning I googled "Girty Island" and found this site. Good luck in your search. If I discover any more factual information I will pass the references on to you.
Simon Girty is often referred to as a "Scoundrel" but we must remember who wrote in those times, well off white men who had their stolen native lands and property to protect from the Girty's who ran with the natives trying to preserve their right to exist in their native lands. (I am also part Cherokee.):)

Happy New Year Everyone!

I am currently researching Girty's Island in the Maumee River, near Florida Ohio. Looking for artifacts from a time long ago.

So far I know that Simon Girty hid there and his brother George had a trading post, both in the 1700's. I have also learned that there was other structures built on the island in the early 1900's, one being a victorian amusement park. I have also heard rumors that there was also a dance hall at one time.

This past summer, I found the remains of an old foundation and the remains of a log used in the building with the log tag still attached. This foundation is nothing like what we see today. I am looking for information that may lead me to what remains I have found so I can identify the time period in which it was built. I am also looking to know what all structures once stood on the island. This would help date any artifacts I may find.

Sincerely hoping someone know something. :)
My husband's grandmother's parents owned this island in the early 1900's, and she did a nice history and map of the island. It had amusements and a dance hall, refreshments along with the beach and lodging, and ferrying transportation for visitors. I will try to get this typed and copied so you can view it for comparison today.

My husband's grandmother's parents owned this island in the early 1900's, and she did a nice history and map of the island. It had amusements and a dance hall, refreshments along with the beach and lodging, and ferrying transportation for visitors. I will try to get this typed and copied so you can view it for comparison today.

Good Lord, if you could get me a copy of the map showing the lay out of the park words could not describe how thankful I would be.

I contacted a very nice gentlemen from the Henry County historical Society over the winter and he sent me a write up with pictures that someone sent to the historical society. Your husband must be related to the Voights I am guessing.

This past Saturday, I spent four hours walking the entire island. Leaving the island was bitter-sweet for me. I discovered a lot and a lot of pieces of the puzzle are still missing. The saddest part was knowing this park (and the island itself) truly is a historical sight on the Maumee River and so little of it remains because of the Maumee River. I only hope that my postings will help keep this history alive.

The write-up I received placed structures as it related to the ferry landing. My husband was the one that found the ferry landing. One very large timber remains and a short piece of cable anchored in the ground. A tree still stands that shows the marks where the cable once wrapped around it.

Just to the west of the landing, I found what remains of what I believe to be the ice house. Going north from the ferry landing, I found an old arch which I believe may be the entrance to the park, leading to the house. I have not found any remains of the house as of yet. I believe in later years, this area may have been farmed and the foundation covered. If you can find out if the park entrance did have an arch, then I will know the area behind it is where the house once stood. The pictures of the house that I have may have been taken while standing under this arch. Without the house location, I am missing the location of the refreshment stand that stood next to the house. The area behind the arch has trees, but they are young enough to tell me they weren't there a 100 years ago. To the northwest of the arch, I ran across the strange foundation I found last fall. With the information I received this winter, I believe this to be the stables where visitors stabled their horses while on the island. Next to this structure, I uncovered a coil of cable which I am sure was used for the ferry. North of the stable, I found a very small foundation, which I haven't a clue what it is. I was hoping this was one of the three cottages, but no way to know for sure. Along with the cottages, there was the dance hall, bowling alley, race track and I am totally lost as to where any of these once stood. The write-up states that one cottage still stands because it was make of stone, but I did not see it and I was all over the island.

I did make it to the beach area where the bath houses once stood, but being at the head of the island I am sure the Mighty Maumee took those remains a long time ago. I did find an entire skeleton of what I believe to be a very, very large hog/sow that was once buried about 5 feet down and with the flooding this spring was unearthed. This has both me and my husband stumped. The park would may have served roasted pig, not buried it. Do you have any ideas?

I do have some very good pictures of everything I discovered that I would be happy to pass along to you. Your husband's family may want to have these as it is part of their family history.

Looking forward to hearing from you!

And to my other fellow explorers who have helped me with this historical search, yes, I am still going strong and loving it. As for the ghost of Mr. Simon Girty, he must be resting in peace in the great beyond since I did not see him. For this, I am glad.

I am a Girty, on my father's side and I claim Simon Girty as a distant uncle of mine. Yes, I have read of Girty Island in a History of Ohio book I found in the reference section of the Toledo, Lucas Co. Library. I have also read many Historically based novels that have had details of the escapades and movements of the Girty brothers. (James A. Thom, "Warrior Woman") I pass across the Maumee River each morning going to work and looking at the mist on the water it brings to mind "Girty Island" and all of the actions of those times. This morning I googled "Girty Island" and found this site. Good luck in your search. If I discover any more factual information I will pass the references on to you.
Simon Girty is often referred to as a "Scoundrel" but we must remember who wrote in those times, well off white men who had their stolen native lands and property to protect from the Girty's who ran with the natives trying to preserve their right to exist in their native lands. (I am also part Cherokee.):)

I am in agreement with "Oneguyinohio" that Simon Girty may have been the first activist noted in history, not a "Scoundrel". The way I see it, the Native Americans would have used a few more Simon Girtys. Someone to stand for what is right and not take their land.

I read an article that stated that if it was not for the Greenville Treaty, that Michigan, Indiana, and Wisconsin would not have became ours (I guess meaning the British would have gotten them during that time in history). Do you know anything about this? How does taking land from the Native Americans, which the Treaty did, make a difference in getting these sates?

I think it is a reference to the claim that the British had on the lands at the same time. When the French were defeated through an alliance with the Native Americans, the British claimed those lands. At about the same time, the British policy began not giving any support to the tribes that had assisted the British... nor did the British share in the claim of the new lands... Those policies drove a wedge between the Native Americans and the British. The small United States was able to exploit the division between the British and Native Americans when at the Treaty of Greenville, the native americans relinquished claims to the land... This is probably the source of the statements you discussed. It gave the United States a claim to those lands, while ignoring the British claims to it...

The link below goes into a lot of detail about various treaties and policies... hope it helps...
Native American Treaty Signers in the Great Lakes Region (http://clarke.cmich.edu/nativeamericans/catalog/essays.htm)

Thanks for the information, I will check it out. Maybe it will help me understand why the Native Americans where told where to live vs. everyone living together as neighbors. Those were tough times to live, you would think that the more people in a community, the easier it would hae been on those people.

I also read where you posted that the DNR now owns Girty's Island (I am glad you made it over here!). Did it say as to when they bought it? Did you get a list of who hands the island passed through?

Good Lord, if you could get me a copy of the map showing the lay out of the park words could not describe how thankful I would be.

I contacted a very nice gentlemen from the Henry County historical Society over the winter and he sent me a a write up with pictures that someone sent to the historical society. Your husband must be related to the Voights I am guessing.

This past Saturday, I spent four hours walking the entire island. Leaving the island was bitter-sweet for me. I discovered a lot and a lot of pieces of the puzzle are still missing. The saddest part was knowing this park (and the island itself) truly is a historical sight on the Maumee River and so little of it remains because of the Maumee River. I only hope that my postings will help keep this history alive.

The write-up I received placed structures as it related to the ferry landing. My husband was the one that found the ferry landing. One very large timber remains and a short piece of cable anchored in the ground. A tree still stands that shows the marks where the cable once wrapped around it.

Just to the west of the landing, I found what remains of what I believe to be the ice house. Going north from the ferry landing, I found an old arch which I believe may be the entrance to the park, leading to the house. I have not found any remains of the house as of yet. I believe in later years, this area may have been farmed and the foundation covered. If you can find out if the park entrance did have an arch, then I will know the area behind it is where the house once stood. The pictures of the house that I have may have been taken while standing under this arch. Without the house location, I am missing the location of the refreshment stand that stood next to the house. The area behind the arch has trees, but they are young enough to tell me they weren't there a 100 years ago. To the northwest of the arch, I ran across the strange foundation I found last fall. With the information I received this winter, I believe this to be the stables where visitors stabled their horses while on the island. Next to this structure, I uncovered a coil of cable which I am sure was used for the ferry. North of the stable, I found a very small foundation, which I haven't a clue what it is. I was hoping this was one of the three cottages, but no way to know for sure. Along with the cottages, there was the dance hall, bowling alley, race track and I am totally lost as to where any of these once stood. The write-up states that one cottage still stands because it was make of stone, but I did not see it and I was all over the island.

I did make it to the beach area where the bath houses once stood, but being at the head of the island I am sure the Mighty Maumee took those remains a long time ago. I did find an entire skeleton of what I believe to be a very, very large hog/sow that was once buried about 5 feet down and with the flooding this spring was unearthed. This has both me and my husband stumped. The park would may have served roasted pig, not buried it. Do you have any ideas?

I do have some very good pictures of everything I discovered that I would be happy to pass along to you. Your husband's family may want to have these as it is part of their family history.

Looking forward to hearing from you!

And to my other fellow explorers who have helped me with this historical search, yes, I am still going strong and loving it. As for the ghost of Mr. Simon Girty, he must be resting in peace in the great beyond since I did not see him. For this, I am glad.

Hi - The history that I have of the Fred Voigt family has a chapter on Simon Girty and a chapter on Girty's Island. It is many pages long, too many to scan and try to email. So if you want to email me your address, I will mail you a copy. You can email me at: [email protected].
Glad you're interested,
MPratt

Hi - The history that I have of the Fred Voigt family has a chapter on Simon Girty and a chapter on Girty's Island. It is many pages long, too many to scan and try to email. So if you want to email me your address, I will mail you a copy. You can email me at: [email protected].
Glad you're interested,
MPratt

Looking at the map that Grandma drew, you are right there is an ice house at the landing. Then directly north was a ball field, with a hitching rail to the west of it. Directly north of the ball field was the grandstand, to its west was the barn, and further west stood the stone home. Diretly to the west of the home was the food stand, and an ice cream stand. To their north was the shooting gallery, beer garden aned bowling alley. Going along the drive from the landing to the northwest, was a pavilion that stood near a fruit orchard. The bathing beach was to the west. Grandfather Voigt had started to build a cottage (the second), in 1912, but the flood of 1913 took everything but the original stone home. They continued to use the island for family vacations, building a dance hall, but sold to the State of Ohio Game Reserve when my husband's mother was a girl, around 65 years ago. A brief summary! It really is a sweet history, you will enjoy reading it in its entirety.

GIRTY’S ISLAND -- by EARLY --- May, 2008

In the Maumee river, about five miles upstream from Napoleon, Ohio, there is Girty’s Island, At the turn of the 19th/20th century, there was a recreation area on the island and, in addition to a few cottages, there was a dance hall a bowling alley and a park area for picnics. The bowling alley was not in today’s configuration - the ball was about six or seven inches in diameter, had two holes, and was made of wood. The alley ran alongside the east side of dance floor, separated from it by a wall. The island was used primarily by people from Napoleon who came on a small steam boat that made regular trips during the weekend.

There was also a large two-storey house at the highest point of the island, a bit west of the island center and approximately 100 yards east of the dance hall. There were, perhaps, a half dozen cottages along the south shore.

Some time during the mid-1930s, my uncle and aunt, Lewis and Vanda Yorges lived in the big house on the island, getting to and from the island by use of a ferry on the north bank. My uncle remade the ferry, putting a steel cable from the north shore to the island. The cable ran through two pulley wheels on the ferry side rail and the occupants pulled the ferry across by pulling on the cable, no easy job pulling a 12/15 foot by 5/6 foot, flat bow and stern boat.

In the 1930s, money was scarce; one occupation of my aunt was collecting clams and checking them for “pearls” for which she might get 25 to 50 cents a week.

In addition to spending a day or two at a time, I spent a few days one year, 1936? with them on the island, helping my aunt put new wall paper in the living room. Each layer of old paper had a high-water mark, the highest about seven to eight feet above the floor. The house was on the highest point of land and sat on large concrete blocks about two feet high. We surmised that the highest, high-water mark was put there during the 1913 flood, about 20 feet above normal water level. (My guess).

The island had a cultivated field -50 acres? - farmed by Ben Gunn who lived on the north bank of the Maumee, about a half mile east of the ferry. The Gunn family had original papers to the farm from the State of Ohio and were among the very earliest settlers in Henry County. The island ferry was large enough to transport Ben’s horses and equipment.

I don’t know who owned the island at that time. My uncle and aunt lived there for a few years and then built a small house on the tow-path - the canal ran between the road and the tow-path - close to the ferry dock.

The canal was still full of water then, but sometime later in the 1930s, someone, unknown, blew a large hole in the tow-path about three or four miles upstream and the canal water was no more.

I am not an expert on the Girtys or Girty’s Island, but from what I have read, I have the impression that the Girty’s did not live on the island, James Girty had a trading post on the north bank and the Island’s name came from that post. Certainly, George and Simon could have visited but Simon was primarily occupied in the southern part of Ohio, near Pittsburgh, or in the Detroit area, not (now) northwestern Ohio.

Welcome, GREAT first post and Info, You have to be over 70, and have great recollection,
It would be interesting if you could draw a map of the island, the ferry crossing and any nearby buildings, Most of my research is outwest. Lot of great memories or history is lost if not written down. Thanks and Take care.

Thank you very much for the additional information. My research has told me there was a bowling alley on the island and that has always puzzled me because I was thinking in today's terms. You have solved that mystery for me.

You are right about the high water mark on the wall paper. The water reached all the way to the second story of the house, that is why the Voight family called it quits. Each year the river took out a building or two and it was hard to always rebuild.

I last wrote that I thought I found the stables, this is wrong. I went back to the island over Memorial Day weekend and I found the old brick well. This was a very big discovery for me. The blocks you speak of (that I thought were the stables) is actually the remains of the house. Finally finding that well confirmed the house's location. Which also means the concert ring with a dirt hole in the middle right in front of the blocks, was the newer well the Voight family drilled right in front of the house. I know this to be true because I can see the new well in the old picture I have (took the pictures with me in a zip-lock bag). And I will admit it, I cried. Three years of researching this island and to finally know for sure what I found was over whelming. To stand where so many have stood before, wow!

Knowing that the food stand sat just west of the house, I found a row of cinder blocks that made up the foundation of the food stand. Thanks to you, I now know the location of the bowling alley. Do you know if this was made of any concrete/stone materials? Did the wall have a block wall bottom? If it was all wood, there would be nothing left by now.

I found the original ferry landing on the south side of the island, cable included (from the amusement times). It sounds like your Uncle made a ferry landing on the north side. The side of the tow path. Is this correct? Did your Aunt and Uncle raise hogs? I found a very large skeleton the was once buried about five feet down that the river unveiled this spring? This really has me puzzled. In those days, farm animals were a very precious food item, why bury the animal or the bones. Funny, for every answer I get, I come from the island with another question. But this is OK because I keep getting great information from wonderful people like yourself and it continues my search.

You are right about Simon Girty. I read Simon would go there, but it was his brother James that had the trading post and Simon passed away during his elderly years while living in Canada.

Sorry that I can't provide answers, but after 72 years or so -----?? I don't recall the construction of the bowling alley - I believe that the wall separating it from the dance floor was a low one. My uncle's ferry was on the north side, directly opposite the small farm house on rte. 424, the first one west of the Gunn place. The big house was straight up the hill from the ferry. My uncle worked in Napoleon and aside from a pet dog, they had no animals. I do remember that one day I rowed completely around the island, feeling quite proud that I did it.
Oh yes, they had a trot line out across the north run of the river to catch fish - and did catch fish too.

From EARLY -- Just thought of something else. Seems to me that I remember that Girty's Island is really two islands - one a small one, maybe 50 acres, at the downstream end. The small one was known as Chicken Island. And in the question, Florida, Ohio, was mentioned; When Genl. "Mad " Anthony Wayne led his troops to the Battle of Fallen Timbers in 1794, they left from Fort Defiance and marched along the river, heading for what is now an area adjoining Maumee, Ohio, memorialized as "Fallen Timbers". The first night's march found them at the Indian village of Snake Town - now Florida, Ohio. The canal was still 40 / 50 years in the future but Florida became a village because of the canal. I don't know what happened to the Indian village, but the defeat of the Indian tribes at Fallen Timbers was a major happening in the struggle for control of the Northwest Territory. The Indians gave up shortly thereafter. My great-grandfather worked with his team of horses in building the canal, filling in time when his farm didn't need him - but that was 45 - 50 years after Fallen Timbers and has nothing to do with Girty's Island.

One other thing that occurs to me is that James Girty's major trading post was at St. Mary's, Ohio, so I believe the post on the Maumee was a stopover point on the way to Lake Erie, probably one of several.

I think it is great that Girty's Island is the object of your study - I have always had a soft spot in my heart for it. EARLY

One more - this one a suggestion --- try:

http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/map-machine#theme=Street&c=0|0&sf=187648892.534865

By working your"clicks" properly, you can get a satellite picture of Girty's Island. Not much to see but it gives a good idea of the size and shape.

Just one more -- checking the satellite picture, I see Chicken Island at the northeast section of Girty's and it is smaller than the 50 acres I said it might be. Looks more like one or two but it is there. EARLY

Thank you again! I know exactly what small island you are talking about (Chicken Island). I was wondering about that small piece of land and if it was once a part of Girty's Island that water have separated it off. Do you know if there was anything built on that island? Was it used for anything?

You are right about thinking the islands were much bigger, because at one time they were. My research has stated that 1/3 of Girty's Island has been washed away by the River and God only know when that number was figured. As I see the smaller little islands become completely gone each year on the way to Girty's, it stands to reason that much more of Girty's is now washed away. It is one reason that I have kelp going on with this research. Girty's Island won't disappear during my lifetime or my children's lifetime, but it may not be there for my grandchildren's lifetime. Hopefully, these writings will be passed down so others in the future will know there once was a wonderful place where people met to have fun and families gathered together. You are helping to make that happen with all the wonderful information you are passing on :)

I think it is so great that your great Grandfather actually worked on the canal! I think anyone who is interested in history, should read about the Erie-Miami Canal. What a great success it was during that era and so much hard work went into it.

Have you ever stopped by that little store by Lugwig Mill? You park on the east side of the Grand Rapids bridge and walk across the road, down the path and it is right there. Because of Girty's Island, I have also researched the canal and the town of Providence built by Peter Manor, which is now Providence Park. The store has these great little books about the history of that entire area. I have the book on the canal, Providence, & Grand Rapids which was once known as Gilead. With your added information, I will now look into Snake Town and see if there is written history on it.

As you remember things, please keep posting it. Since I opened this question in January of this year, over one thousand people have viewed it! And so many have answered and posted their own memories of the Island. Remember, this island passed through many hands throughout the last 100 years and each writing is precious history being preserved.

Hoping to hear form you again!

RiverRat1

T o RiverRat1 from EARLY -- a few more memories of Henry County. At Independence Dam at Independence, Ohio, (Defiance County but on the Miami-Erie Canal) there was, during the 1930s, a time of severe financial depression, a family living on a Canal boat at the bridge across the tow path. For how long, I don’t know but possibly for a few years. To the best of my knowledge, this was the last canal boat on the canal. (A reconstructed boat is at St. Mary’s, Ohio.)
From oral history, my ancestors, during the construction of the canal, a severe disease of some sort hit the construction crew while they were working near Florida. After a few days, someone hitched a horse to a buggy and went pell mell to Toledo, got a doctor and brought him to the work site. The story goes that he did a good job and stopped the spread of the disease. Florida to Toledo -- 45 - 50 miles one way, on trails in a buggy with a horse - poor horse. As I said - oral history - take it for what it is worth.

Actually your oral history may be more right then you think. I bet the disease you speak of is cholera and/or malaria. From the book "Shades of Providence", many, many workers lost their lives due to these diseases. Poor hygiene, poor nutrition, and mosquitos plagued the workers. People traveling through also brought the diseases. It was this disease that either killed people or forced them to get as far away as possible.

I would highly recommend you buy the book "Shades of Providence", located in the store at Ludwig Mill. It is a quick read just loaded with great information. Along with covering the history of the town of Providence, it has many facts a about the building of the canal and the problems the workers fought.

I know from my research, that the majority of the workers came from Irish descent. Is your ancestry Irish or was your ancestors local settlers? Either way, they had a tough go a it. Did you know, that at the very beginning of the canal building in that area, workers went for up to four months before receiving any pay? Imagine how hard that had to be.

When your family bought Girty's Island, why didn't they continue with the family park? Is it because of the financial depression you speak of? Or where they more interested in farming then running a business? Was there anything left other then the house?

Looking forward to your reply! :)

TO RIVERRAT1 --
1. My aunt and uncle only rented the big house on Girty's Island for a few years. As I noted before, they later built a small house on the towpath.
2. In 1936, the house, dance hall/bowling alley were still intact as were the cottages on the south bank. These are the only buildings I recall. As far as I know, they had all been empty for years. My memory doesn't assure this, but I believe the dance hall and bowling alley were one with the bowling alley running north and south along the east side of the dance hall, separated by a low wall. Don't "bet the farm" on that.
3. I knew some of the history of the M/E canal - our local library has good references I don't know anything about my great grandfather's pay or working conditions but I have had the impression that if he were free of farm chores/duties and felt like doing it, he would drive his team two miles to the canal and dig dirt. This was in the Florida area.
4. My ggfather was from Alsace Lorraine - his wife from Germany; My grandmother was from various Quaker ancestors who moved from England to Wales to Ireland as they tried to avoid persecution, finally buying land from Wm. Penn in Pennsylvania. They all came to the Henry County area in the early 1840s (?), being initial owners of their farm. ( Bought it from the state of Ohio) EARLY

RIVERRAT -- In reading History of Western Ohio and Auglaize County recently, I read a section about James Girty. (It was taken from Butterfield's History of the Girtys, page 318.) In summary, he lived in the northwest Ohio area in the 1780s, having a monopoly on Indian trade at St. Mary's for seven years. It was known as Girty Town. Furs were taken by the St. Mary's river to the Maumee, down the Maumee to the Rapids and from that place across Lake Erie to Detroit. He “returned with stores to be disposed of to the Indians at a large profit“. (He was married to a Shawnee woman named Betsy). “He had timely warning of the approach of the American army under Genl. Harmar and moved his goods first to the head waters of the Maumee and immediately after down the river to the Grand Glaize”. He left the Maumee for Canada when Genl. Wayne approached in 1794, and was there until after the Greenville treaty was signed in 1795. He then returned to the Maumee and resumed his Indian trading. Take your pick of stories about the Girty's. About all I am sure of is that the Island was named for James, not George or Simon. The Maumee at the island could be called the Grand Glaize but so could much of the Maumee much of the time. There it is for what it is worth ---.. EARLY

My Great Grandparents, Fred & Mary Voigt own the Island at the turn of the century.

They had a large home and a cottage for their personal use. And many activities, there was a dance hall, bowling alley,swimming, The dance hall was often used as a theater as many actors and actresses came to perform there. The Voigt family has extensive info, pics and items from that time.

Gust

Hello,
My great grandparents own Girty's as I had stated in an earlier e-mail. We have so much info that it would be in possible to e-mail. Perhaps we could make arrangements to meet. The Voigt (there is no h in spelling Voigt) family loves to share the stories and pics & etc. My son received a bowling ball from Girty's Island last year for his b-day.
Gust

The Voigt Family has a blue print of the Island My Dad remembers spending summer vacations with his Father, who was the son of Fred Voigt. My Dad is from a family of 9 children all are gone except my Dad and a Aunt. One of their favorite pass times is to talk about the Island. I read in one of the answers why the park closed. Partly because of the flood from 1913, the other was for the amount of work, time & money that they put into the park they were not making much profit. The Dance Hall did not attract the best of people. So the family went out of the park business and used the Island for their own personal use for many years. My grandfather went to the Island during the 1913 flood and braced many of the trees up. He had a wooden leg so this was some what difficult for him. He also ice skated around the Island with his wooden leg. The ice house went out during the flood along with several other buildings. My Great Grandmother would cooked fried chicken meals every weekend to be sold. She would go out to the chicken fence and butcher her own chickens, They also made ice cream. The whole family was very busy keeping the park going. After the park was closed one of my great aunts and her family lived out there for several summers and farmed, this was much more profitable.

I have so many stories going through my mind right now. I have been looking for a long time on the inter-net to find info about the Island. So imagine how thrilled I was to find this site!

Gust

My husband's grandmother's parents owned this island in the early 1900's, and she did a nice history and map of the island. It had amusements and a dance hall, refreshments along with the beach and lodging, and ferrying transportation for visitors. I will try to get this typed and copied so you can view it for comparison today.



My Great Grandparents Fred and Mary Voigt own the island at the turn of the century. I am not sure who your husband is. I tried to e-mail at your e-mail address and it won't let me in.
My grandparents are Gust & Helen (mollett) Voigt, my parents are Paul and Darlene Voigt,
I am Joanie Voigt- Bowers, we live in Defiance/Ayersville area

I would love to hear from you !

Hi Gust,


Welcome to the party! I started this posting back in Jan 2008 and I can't believe how much information I have received or how it has brought so many people together. You must be related to MPratt, this is wonderful! We have to get in touch so I can add to my research. I do have a hand drawn map of the island that MPratt sent to me. What kind of map do you have?

I don't know if you have read all the postings, but I have been making trips to the island trying to figure out what each ruin is. I have taken pictures of each finding. I tried to private message you, but I can't. Left click on my name (RiverRat1) and select "private message" so we can share private info that others can not see. I would love to get in touch with you!

RIVERRAT -- In reading History of Western Ohio and Auglaize County recently, I read a section about James Girty. (It was taken from Butterfield’s History of the Girtys, page 318.) In summary, he lived in the northwest Ohio area in the 1780s, having a monopoly on Indian trade at St. Mary’s for seven years. It was known as Girty Town. Furs were taken by the St. Mary’s river to the Maumee, down the Maumee to the Rapids and from that place across Lake Erie to Detroit. He “returned with stores to be disposed of to the Indians at a large profit“. (He was married to a Shawnee woman named Betsy). “He had timely warning of the approach of the American army under Genl. Harmar and moved his goods first to the head waters of the Maumee and immediately after down the river to the Grand Glaize”. He left the Maumee for Canada when Genl. Wayne approached in 1794, and was there until after the Greenville treaty was signed in 1795. He then returned to the Maumee and resumed his Indian trading. Take your pick of stories about the Girty’s. About all I am sure of is that the Island was named for James, not George or Simon. The Maumee at the island could be called the Grand Glaize but so could much of the Maumee much of the time. There it is for what it is worth ---.. EARLY

Well that is some great information. I thought the island was named after Simon. What do you know about the homestead that Simon built on the south side of the river, now the Gunn farm?

Exactly where is this "Grand Glaize" part of the river? I have never heard of this before now. Do you know how it got it's name? This is very interesting to me!

From EARLY -- The Gunn farm is on the north side of the river east of the island, still, I believe, occupied by descendants of the Gunns. (Eberlys.) (Rte. 424 is on the north side.) And the Gunn cemetery is on the north side almost opposite the eastern - downstream - end of the island. As I tried to indicate, I don't know where the Grand Glaize is but much of the Maumee could be described that way - calm - smooth ---, except during the flood season. In the 1700s, Independence Dam was not in existence so Grand Glaize could have been almost anywhere but I'd bet on the present location of Girty's Island. I don't believe Simon built anything on the Maumee - as I said in one of my earlier messages, I think he spent most of his time in the southwestern part of Ohio, Detroit and Canada, and in his early days, eastern Pennsylvania, near Pittsburgh. He and George may have visited but that is all. (Of course, I wasn't there so I can't be sure.) Fun to study history, especially when it is local.

Yes, it is fun! I have truly enjoyed studying the history all along the Maumee River. Last weekend some friends told me that the old time candy store in Grand Rapids use to sell different books the pertained to the local history. I am hoping to get here this weekend and hoping that they are still selling these books. If not, some old fashion candy sounds good to me.

River Rat you should be getting a private response. Yes I am related to MPratt. I have the same map she does. My Dad and Aunt spend many summers on the Island with my Grandpa
Gust, their father. If we could get together they could answer a lot of your questions, tell you what ruins you have found plus a lot more. We have a lot of pictures

From EARLY --- One more item - try "GlobalExplorer ImageAtlas" for an aerial photo - topographical map - & several other views of the Island. A good look at the location of the Gunn cemetery on the aerial photo.

To RIVERRAT1 -- from EARLY -- I referred to Butterfield's history of the Girtys in one of my blurbs -- At our library today, I checked Butterfield for Grand Glaize and found it to be, according to Butterfield, at the confluence of the Auglaize and the Maumee; in other words, Defiance, Ohio. Also per B/F, the last trading post James G. had was at Girty's point - in other words, on the north shore of the Maumee at Girty's Island. B/F also states that "Simon has been confounded" with James by some authors who credit Simon with a log cabin on the Maumee. Fun and Games.

This makes since. Simon. By history accounts, was the colorful one of the family. The one noted as a "traitor or white salvage:, so it makes since that history has been twisted (for a better lack of words) to revolve more around Simon vs. James. I have read several accounts about Simon, but haven't can across that many regarding James. What do you think? In your research, have you came across more information about Simon then James? History is not perfect. The farther down the line that information passes, the more likely a writer can change just one small fact and that carries over to the next writer. Us as researchers, must take all the information and compare it from many different sources. I think that is why I like it so much. And either way, we are learning more and more with each fact.

Do you know anything about Bad Creek that runs through Texas, Ohio? A friend of mine stumbled on an article that gave him tons of info, but can't remember were he found it. When I look it up I am finding very little, but I know it played a big part in the history of Texas and the canal.



I have already went to topzone aerial maps. Try this sight. It is more updated and a much better view of Girty's Island. I have them printed out and it is in my Girty's research file. Try it, I think you will like it better.

To RiverRat1 -- What sight? I found no WEB address for a map in your letter. I have GlobeXplorer Image Atlas and National Geographic Map Machine now. Both are good. EARLY

How do guys as questions ? I'm all registered and post in and the works but it will never let me ask a question

What do you know it worked ! My question is to early, where does your family fit in as in time frame to mine, "The Voigts" Did your family purchase the island? What did you do with it. Are you still in the Henry/Defiance county area ?

From EARLY -- My family, as I wrote several messages ago, had an association with Girty's Island in the 1930s when my aunt and uncle rented the big house on the island. They lived there for a few years and then built a small house on the north shore of the canal. My uncle's family owned a farm along the Defiance county line, being an original purchaser from the state. Other than that, there is no connection with the island. As a teenager I spent summers on "the farm" and occasionally visited my aunt and uncle. That was a long time ago.

From EARLY -- I forgot to answer - no I am not in the Henry / Defiance county area - about 75 miles from it. The family farm was sold in the 1980s and my last relative died in 1998 so I have little or no connection.

I am apart of a Paranormal group and growing up in the Napoleon area I have always heard stories. I am collecting research on this location and a lot of the information provided on this message board has been great help. If we get clearance to investigate Girty's Island, I would appreciate it if anyone who has been there can be a guide of sorts. Whether it be on a random day or during an investigation, doesn't matter. Also, I am still inquiring some information in a more collective fashion so my records are clear and I am not taking anyone's work. I'd like to explore not only the haunted history, but any information on the land, area, etc that can be backed by documented evidence. Any information would be greatly appreciated and any contributions to this investigation would be given full credit to the contributors in our research.

You can email me at [email protected]

Again, I greatly appreciate any information provided.

My family owed the Island for many years around the turn of the century. My Dad is one of the 4 surviving grand children of Fred & Mary Voigt. He is 71 and spent many summer days at the Island. We have an extensive history with pictures & maps from the time our family own the island. However, NEVER in all the stories told have I heard of any hauntings. They had an amusement park and later used it for a summer home, It was always very family oriented.

In July River Rat and some friends came to visit at my home to learn more about the Island. My Dad and his older sister were here as well as myself and another cousin.
We had a wonderful time sharing our pictures and memories with them.

My health has not bee good, I am currently recovering from my 5th major surgery in a year, however I am anxious to get back to the Island this fall.

My family lived on the island for many years in the 1970s. My grandfather stayed in the cabin, which was located near the middle of the island, & we mostly camped on the East side.

When we were there, we had horses & gardens. My mom did a lot of canning there. The island was rumoured to be haunted. The old buildings were still up & I spent many years exploring them & the things people left behind.

We left when the government asserted the land as a forest preserve. We had to evacuate & kill the horses. The buildings were leveled shortly thereafter. Some of our farm equipment still exists underwater (& I've heard causes all sorts of troubles for boaters in the area).

I came across this posting because I was searching for information about Girty's Island in the hopes that I could return for a visit in Spring 2009. Let me know if you're interested in a tour.

P.S. I have pictures, including some very good aerial shots.

When you say that your grandfather stayed in the cabin are you referring to the stone cottage with the stone "Princess Madeline" ? If so my Grandfather built that cottage. Also what was the big house like. I have many pictures of the buildings taken during the time my family owned the island in the early 1900's but I have always wondered what they actually looked like. I would love to see your pictures. Did you ever find anything that was from the early 1900's that may have been my families ? Such as bowling balls, bowling pins, Beer bottles, things left behind at the dancing platform, there were rooms behind the stage that the visiting actors & actresses stayed in. I would just love to have something from that time that related back to my family. I am hoping to get on the Island this fall.
Gust

Kitty,

First of all "Welcome to the group"! It is always great meeting another Girty's Island fan.

I would love to get in touch with you. You hold the answers to the period I am missing in my time-line/research. I tried private massaging you, but that option isn't available yet. Right click on my name (RiverRat1) and choose private message. You can then send me your contact information. Your information will truly be appreciated in my research. Also, please read all of "Early's" answers. His Aunt and Uncle lived on the island between the Voigt's and your family. You may get some answers yourself :)

I have heard about the farm machinery at the bottom of the river. My neighbors at where we stay on the river had a friend who farmed the island during your time. I wonder if it is your family that they know.

I was just on the island Sunday, 9/7/08. It was tough going! With all the weeds, bushes all grown out and vines connecting them all. As many times I have been to the old house, it took me some time to find it. It didn't help that a very large cotton wood tree fell, taking another very large tree with it. I didn't see the wooden arch that I love so much and I hope it isn't under the fallen trees, I would be heart broken. The one thing that man did not level, nature might have. I will know for sure when the vegetation starts to die off. I am looking forward to talking to you!

For the rest of my readers, I want everyone to know that I had the great privilege to meet two of the three surviving Grandchildren of Fred and Mary Voigt and the rest of the family. This family invited me into their home and shared everything they have with me (I even got to hold one of the bowling balls!). Words can not describe how grateful I am! After three years of research, not only did I find the Victoria Amusement Park I was searching for, I found the people in it. This is a family that has pain stakingly kelp everything and anything that related to their family roots and the island. If anyone has anything from the island resort days, please let "Gust" know. If it doesn't mean anything to you, it would mean the whole world to them. They are a proud, loving family and I am truly blessed to have found them. It is important to let everyone know that Fred Voigt just didn't create Girty's Island, he created something much, much more. He was a very smart successful business man who's thinking was well belong the period he was living in.

Looking forward to more replys. Lets keep things going, all of us are learning so much!

We lived on Girty's from the mid-1970's until approx 1980. Grandpa stayed in the *lovely* stone cottage apparently built by gust's grandfather. I believe I can still draw its floorplan correctly. I have photos of us repainting the areas of the cottage made of wood, hosting family get-togethers, etc... as well as a few great photos of the buildings & surrounding woods ~~ the areas where we stayed.

We never took anything from the island, so I'm sorry I don't have anything to give that could have been from anyone's family. However, I do recall that the cabin had random kitchenware items, games, & marionettes.

The other buildings were mostly too dilapidated & dangerous for me to explore, but one room in what I called the hotel was in an almost pristine state. It had a twin size bed, a dresser with mirror, a small dresser, framed pictures on the wall. It was here where I found the items left behind that I adored: a framed photo of a dancer, a hairbrush, combs, & one cloth shoe. I never took any of the items; I just loved to be in that room. I tried to imagine what may have happened to inspire such a quick & thoughtless departure. It seemed magical.

But so did all my years on the island. It's not that common that kids get to explore history alone. I'm sorry I do not have much more to give you than pieces of my favorite memories. But I really do appreciate the memories & fantasies your families gave mine.

KittyCatCarlyle, Thank you so much for answering me!! I was talking to River Rat on the phone when I found your response, She thought it was beautiful!! The building your thought was the hotel was the family home. Just think those articles could have belonged to my family ! That is exciting!! But they could have also belonged to the Gunn Family who was on the Island between my family and yours. River Rat and my family are going out to the Island this Sunday. I am really excited as it will be my first time. My Dad is going and he was a little boy when he went to the Island. We are taking a taking a metal detector and a shovel to see if we can find anything.
Wouldn't that be neat! The last time River Rat was there she found the pump and then a turn buckle from the ferry.
We'll let you know what we find
Gust

I have sent a picture of Girty's Island to your E-mail address - wonder if it got through. /s/ Early

To RiverRat1 -- I have sent a picture to your E-mail address - wonder if it got through. /s/ Early

Early, I did not receive your picture, perhaps River Rat did and she can send it on to me.
Thank you for sending it. River Rat and I were really disappointed last weekend when our trip to the island didn't happen because of an emergency. But the island has been there all these years, I am sure it will be there in the spring.

My picture was sent to RiverRat1's E-mail address. I don't have yours so can't send it to you - I would if I could. EARLY

Early
I forget how to give you my e-mail address or find yours. River Rat has told me several times and I can't remember
GUST

To GUST -- from Early -- I've never done it but here is a message from RR1 "----- by right clicking your mouse under the person's name. From there you choose 'send a private message' ". EARLY

To GUST -- from Early -- I've never done it but here is a message from RR1 "----- by right clicking your mouse under the person's name. From there you choose 'send a private message' ". EARLY

I just send you my e-mail, I think, let me know if you get it
gust

I just send you my e-mail address, I think, let me know if you get it

To GUST from EARLY -- 5:30 pm and no e-mail. Let's work through RR! Since I haven't been able to right click a name either.

To RiverRat1 --from EARLY It just occurred to me that you may be interested in a bit of information, not related to Girty's Island but to the Maumee river. I've told you about my great-grandfather working on the Miami Erie Canal; he, Adam, owned a farm between Okolona and Florida and having the farm but no wife, he was on the lookout for a young woman. Someone told him of an indentured servant, Katherine, on the south side of the river who might meet his requirements. There was no bridge over the river so he rowed a boat across and walked to the farmer's house, met the young lady and after some period spent courting her, rowing - rowing - rowing - (I don't know how long), proposed and was accepted. There was a problem of indenturing - solved by paying the farmer $25.00 for her freedom. My aunts told me they used to brag to fellow school students that their grandfather paid $25.00 for their grandmother - just think; all of $25.00. This took place, I think, in about 1840 - 1845. He was from Alsace - Lorraine and she from Bavaria and they lived - as far as I know - happily ever-after. I do know that my grandmother, Adam and Katherine's daughter-in-law (whose picture you have) was never a favorite of Katherine's because she couldn't speak German. History is full of big and little stories.

Very interesting family story! I'm curious about the last name of that family that you mentioned. Some of my ancestors are from that area (near Florida... ) from the very early days.

To oneguyinohio from EARLY -- My mother's family names are Lewis (mother) and Yorges (father); one of my mother's sisters married a Shultz and her father's sister a Scofield and another one a Peters. The name Yorges is corrupted into Jerges in the Flatrock (Florida, Ohio) cemetery - two brothers are buried under two different names. My father was from Napoleon. /s/EARLY

Dirr and Schatz are two of the big names in my family tree. Fraker and Engle are also in there. Some of them are in the same cemetery you mention. Part of that family is from Pleasant Bend area in Henry county as well.

TO oneguyinohio from EARLY

To oneguyinohio from EARLY -- Don't know the names except for Dirr - a hardware store in Napoleon? Some retail establishment, as I recall it.

I remember talking about gidys island when I was younger (70s) I lived in napoleon back
Then I suppose some of those friends sense I'm 50 now will run across this post okay how many of you have heard of ( silly) witchey poos bridge ? In the area feel free to email me
At [email protected] my last names payne
Ps there is anouther sliver of an island up on the east end of napoleon what is it know by?

From EARLY -- Downstream from Napoleon - perhaps just downstream from the present hospital - is or was an island known in the 1910 to 1915 era, as Peach Island because of the peach trees on it. My father told of swimming out there with a straw hat to hold the peaches on the way back. As a side line, he also told of a sulfur water spring near the old tile factory in the North end of town, that was so strong of sulfur that the boys challenged each other to drink of it. EARLY

I was raided on the river and learned all about the area between Girty's island and Independence Dam by an old man named Buck Waisner. If anybody has any questions about the old stone quarry, the big eddy, or any of that let me know.

Ha, meant to say "raised"

Hello Everyone and Merry Christmas ! We had a wonderful day and hope everyone else did also.

To reply to King Riffle, I am interested in history you have to share ! My family own Gerty's Island from 1898 until the mid 20's. I have many questions,so perhaps you can give us a brief overview of the history you know.

We are currently working on paperwork to have our great-grandfather (Fredrick H Voigt) listed as one of the first families of Henry County, Ohio. Have you ever heard of him or anybody else out there that can help us ?

Again have a wonderful Holiday !
Gust and the rest of the Voigt's

To King Riffle from Early -- Buck Waisner had brothers, one of whom was "Penny" Waisner whose son was a playmate of mine in the 1930s.

I didn't know Penny, but I know Buck's kids: Toady, Red, Tom, Gene, and Rosy and most of the grandkids. Buck's dad was killed by a load of logs chained to a wagon that came loose and rolled on him. Buck and his wife Helen died of natural causes within days of each other around 1980. Not sure how old they were. 85-90 I'd guess. They lived at home until almost the end. I remember having to watch out for him driving on the wrong side of the road while he was trying to look at the corn and bean fields.

I was raided on the river and learned all about the area between Girty's island and Independence Dam by an old man named Buck Waisner. If anybody has any questions about the old stone quarry, the big eddy, or any of that let me know.


Hello King Riffle, I am the person who started this discussion on Girty's Island a year ago (RiverRat1 now RiverRatII since e-mail address was changed). What is the "big eddy?" Where is this stone quarry? If you have any knowledge of Girty's Island, please let me know. Even if it is the smallest of details, it could make a big difference in my research. Welcome to the group!

Does anyone out there have any information from the time Early's family lived on Girty's Island until the time the state of Ohio bought it? I am missing all this information in my research. Any information would help. :)

To River Rat from Earlye -- Check Oct 1, 2008 -- KittyKat -- Some info there about G/I in the 1970s.

Does anyone out there have any information from the time Early's family lived on Girty's Island until the time the state of Ohio bought it?? I am missing all this information in my research. Any information would help. :)

Hey I tried to figure out how to send a personal message but for some reason it won't let me. But I had a few questions for you if you would want to email me at [email protected]

Does anyone out there have any information from the time Early's family lived on Girty's Island until the time the state of Ohio bought it?? I am missing all this information in my research. Any information would help. :)

I have been trying and trying to get you through your personal e-mail and your home phone no luck please send me your correct info to my personal e-mail

As to what happen between Early's family and when the state took over. I will have to ask Papa, but I do know that he went out there several times with is best friend and state rep. Larry Manahan.
The buildings were still standing when the state took over buy shortly there after they tore them down. Papa was really upset. I will have to check with him on the dates , etc.

We have a new grandson, our first grandchild and the first grandchild and great-grandchild.
So that's what is pretty much taking out time up. I have four sisters who think they are grandparents also!! But we are having a blast, it is so neat to be able to share the baby and the joy of him. My the way his name is Wesley PAUL. We are keeping that PAUL name going!! Wesley Paul would be great, great, great grand son to Fred and Mary Voigt.

Hope to hear from you soon.
Gust

Hi! I wrote a long time ago about the years I lived with my family on Girty's Island during the 1970's & early 1980's. My grandpa lived in the cottage & we tented in the woods.

Someone wanted me to go there with them so I could point out what I remember.

I'll be in the area during the first week of October 2009. If you're available then, my husband & I could make the time for a tour. Just let me know!

Just wanted to check one more time to see if I needed to bring photos with me or plan to take someone on a tour of Girty's Island while I'm visiting Ohio this weekend. I arrive Friday & will be in the area for one week.

Please let me know ASAP if still interested in meeting me. I will not visit the area again for quite some time.

I would love to go to the island, how will we get there. We do not have a boat. I would love to talk to you and look at any pictures you have. I don't know if you remember my great grandparents Fred & Mary Voigt had a fun time park on the island at the turn of the century. And my grandpa gust voigt build the cottage that I believe you stayed in.

I am sorry to inform you,that trading post was James Girty, not Simon or George. James Girty had trading post at at Defiance, St Marys and Girty's Point on the Maumee on the northside of the island. When Wayne,s troops came to the area, James Girty moved north with the indains. Simon Girty was in the area a lot, but as an empolyee of the English Indian Dept. THank you Jake Bennett

The following information is all documented fact please read -
James Girty did have a trading post on the North side of the Maumee River between Napoleon, Ohio and Flordia, Ohio. I know for a fact a British Cannon ball was found on the Northside of the river with the british crown still stamped into it. Most information on Simon Girty using the island is common folklore. (Ghost stories and such)
The real facts are also as follows -
On August 19, 1899 Fredrick Voight and his brother Henry Voight bought Girty's Island. They build a ferry with two cables to pull themselves across to the island. That was the only way to enter the island unless using a row boat. Voight turned the island into a summer resort. The family built three cottages to rent. Fredrick's son Gustav built a stone cabin and built a stone fire place inside. The center stone on the fire place read "Madeline Island Queen" (that stone is on exhibit today in the Henry County Historical Society's collection in Napoleon, Ohio) The remains of the cabin are on the edge of the island and are washing out into the river. (I have been there and saw it) Later a food stand was built where they served soft drinks, ham sandwiches, baked beans, and coffee. Ice cream was served every Saturday in two five gallon freezers. In the main family house they served chicken dinners. There was an ice house, shooting gallery, bowling alley, a racetrack, grandstand, ball dimond, where they held a game every Sunday. The grove had large swings from the trees. A pavilion and dance floor were built near the center of the island (today the pillars from the dance hall still stand in the center of the island.) There was a bathing beach on the west end, and a ride called shoot the chutes. (Shoot the chutes was where passengers would ride down into the water off a steep slide in wooden boats, the ride closed when someone almost drowned!! ) There were bath houses, where you could rent swim suits. A merry go round with lanters. The old parking lot for horses was where cole cemetery is on the south side of the river. The largest crowd on the island was July 4th 1918 with over 1,000 people. There is a lot of information but not all I know if you want more let me know! The final days of the island where floods which took our a few buildings every winter. The island was sold in 1925 to Epstein Bros. and then sold to Blanchard Amusement Co. over the years it lost it luster and by the 1920's it was used as a Jewish summer retreat. During that time all that remained was the main house the three cabins a few walking trails and that was it. After the Jewish camp left the glory days of Girty's island passed into the history books.

Tmoyer,

Was there a windmill on the island? Where the bath houses were. Were the cabins on the north side of the island or the south side?

I have never seen a windmill on the island. However that does not mean that one did not exist on the island. Why do you ask?

The original stone cabin ruins can be found on the south side of the river towards Napoleon, Ohio just off the bank by about 4 - 5 feet. The brick sidewalk now runs from the front door only about 4 - 5 foot before dropping off the side of the river bank.