Come Into the Peace of Wild Things
I was toiling in my perennial garden the other day, buried in weeds (a familiar scene for you too, perhaps?), trying to free my Wild Lupines (Lupinus perennis) from the assault of pasture grasses. I was deep in it; soil ingrained in the lines of my hands, fingers sore from splinters old and new, lost in the worries of the world, when a colossal Common Eastern Bumble Bee (Bombus impatiens) hit me right between the eyes. She bounced clumsily and then zig-zagged, slightly drunk off that sweet, sweet nectar. I chuckled out loud at her unique ability to snap me right out of my head. I watched her, quietly. From flower to flower. Her hind legs dusted the color of bright-saffron, pollen baskets (corbiculae) weighing her down. I found myself lost in thought, again. But this time, I was captivated by wild things. The juxtaposition of their simplicity and complexity. Soil microbes generating heat, beneficial insects like lacewings dining on aphids, Baltimore Orioles (Icterus galbula) dramatically defending their territory overhead. I was downright enchanted. I felt grateful and free, and I was reminded that only nature makes me feel this way. And then, I remembered Wendell Berry’s poignant words in The Peace of Wild Things:
“When despair for the world grows in me and I wake in the night at the least sound in fear of what my life and my children’s lives may be, I go and lie down where the wood drake rests in his beauty on the water, and the great heron feeds. I come into the peace of wild things who do not tax their lives with forethought of grief. I come into the presence of still water. And I feel above me the day-blind stars waiting with their light. For a time I rest in the grace of the world, and am free.”
Each year, I welcome summer with her promise of teeming wildlife, verdant hues, and the perpetual joy of discovery. The gratitude I feel for it all compels me to ask, “what can I do better for the wild things that sustain me, that give me peace?” Last year, I created another native garden much to the chagrin of my 6-year-old, “Gardens, gardens, gardens! Mama, where am I supposed to play?!” Other years, I’ve volunteered to pull invasive species or to investigate streams for dragonfly larvae and giant water bugs. This year, I vow to revisit Bringing Nature Home and Nature’s Best Hope by Douglas W. Tallamy. Both invaluable resources for land and water guardians, like you, who stand in awe of the natural treasures bestowed upon us by Walloon Lake and its watershed. So, what will you do to enrich the wild on your slice of Walloon this summer? While you contemplate it, I hope you find your own sweet haven in which to “rest in the grace of the world,” and that you return to it time and again.
May the bees be with you,
Haley Breniser
WLAC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
2024 Event Calendar
June
September
July
October
November
August
December
INVASIVE PLANT WATCHLIST!
TERRESTRIAL PLANT
The Bothersome Japanese Barberry in Northern Michigan
The japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii) is a highly invasive shrub that poses a significant threat to the ecosystems of Northern Michigan. Originally introduced to North America as an ornamental plant, it has since spread and begun aggressively outcompeting native species and disrupting local habitats. Understanding the characteristics of japanese barberry, its impacts on the environment, and the strategies for managing its spread is crucial for preserving the ecological balance in the region.
Japanese barberry is a deciduous shrub known for its dense, thorny branches and vibrant red berries. It typically grows between 3 to 6 feet in height and has small, oval or spoon-shaped leaves that can range in color from green to reddish-purple, depending on the variety. In the spring, the plant produces small, yellow flowers that hang in clusters, followed by bright red berries in the fall. These berries are a primary means of seed dispersal, often carried by birds, which contribute to the plant’s spread.
Japanese barberry is particularly problematic because of its ability to create dense thickets that dominate the understory of
By Tanner Yurk, Conservation Programs Manager
forests, dominating native plants to control the light, water, and nutrients. This can significantly reduce biodiversity, leading to the decline of native plants and animals that we love to see. Moreover, the dense foliage and thorny structure of barberry provide an ideal habitat for ticks, including those that carry Lyme disease. Studies have shown higher densities of ticks in areas heavily infested with japanese barberry, posing a direct threat to human health.
The plant can impact soil chemistry by altering the soil's pH and nitrogen levels, creating conditions that further inhibit the growth of native species. This ecological imbalance can have cascading effects, disrupting food webs, and altering the habitat structure necessary for various wildlife species.
Effective management of japanese barberry requires a combination of mechanical and chemical control, as well as preventing its spread through education and outreach. Early detection and rapid response are crucial to preventing its establishment and spread. Physical (mechanical) removal of japanese barberry is one of the most effective methods, especially for small infestations. This involves digging out the entire plant, including the root sys-
tem, to prevent regrowth. Cutting the plants repeatedly over several growing seasons can also deplete their energy reserves, eventually leading to their decline. Herbicides can be used to manage larger infestations of japanese barberry. Glyphosate and triclopyr are commonly used herbicides that, when applied to cut stems or foliage, can effectively kill the plant. However, caution must be exercised to avoid damaging surrounding native vegetation.
Preventing the spread of japanese barberry also involves public education and promoting the use of native or non-invasive ornamental plants in landscaping. Homeowners and landscapers are encouraged to remove existing barberry plants and replace them with native alternatives.
The invasive japanese barberry poses a serious threat to the ecosystems of northern Michigan. Its ability to outcompete native species, alter soil chemistry, and provide a habitat for disease-carrying ticks underscores the importance of effective management strategies. Help the Walloon Lake Watershed by reporting this invasive species to the Michigan Invasive Species Information Network (MISIN) on their website misin.msu.edu!
LESLIE
AQUATIC PLANT
The Wicked Eurasian Watermilfoil
By Tanner Yurk, Conservation Programs Manager
Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) is an invasive and aggressive aquatic plant that poses significant ecological and economic challenges in many water bodies across North America. Originally from Europe, Asia, and North Africa, it was introduced to the United States in the mid-20th century and has since spread rapidly in Michigan inland lakes. Understanding why eurasian watermilfoil is problematic, how it spreads, and the costs associated with its removal is crucial for managing this invasive species.
Eurasian watermilfoil, or EWM, is particularly troublesome due to its ability to form dense mats of vegetation that can cover the surface of water bodies, significantly disrupting aquatic ecosystems. These dense growths block sunlight from reaching native aquatic plants, reducing biodiversity, and negatively altering habitat for fish and other wildlife. The plant’s rapid growth and high density can lead to a decrease in oxygen levels in the water, harming fish and other aquatic organisms.
Eurasian watermilfoil can interfere with recreational activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing due to its dense mats that entangle propellers, making navigation difficult. This not only affects the enjoyment of activities but also has economic repercussions for communities that heavily rely on tourism and recreation. The plant spreads primarily through fragmentation, where small pieces break off and float to new locations to root and establish new colonies. This fragmentation can occur naturally through water currents and wave action or because of human activities such as boating, fishing, and the movement of watercraft.
Additionally, the plant can spread to other water bodies through the movement of contaminated equipment, such as boat trailers, fishing gear, paddles, and even wildlife. When boats or trailers are not thoroughly cleaned before moving from one body of water to another, fragments of eurasian watermilfoil can hitch a ride and infest new areas. This is why many invasive species are referred to as ‘Hitchhikers’ and why Michigan in 2019 enacted a law requiring all boaters to ensure their watercraft, trailers, and any conveyance used to transport them are free of aquatic organisms, including plants. Even tiny fragments can give rise to new plants, making containment and eradication extremely challenging.
The economic costs associated with the removal of eurasian watermilfoil are substantial. Management strategies include mechanical harvesting, chemical treatments, and biological control, all of which require significant financial investments. Lake associations, local governments, and conservancies have spent thousands to millions of dollars to control and eradicate this plant. EWM can also be particularly difficult to eradicate due
to the plants’ ability to hybridize with native milfoil species, which requires a constant change in control techniques.
Herbicides are commonly used to control the spread of eurasian watermilfoil. These treatments can be costly and require repeated applications to be effective. It is also important to survey the water bodies repeatedly so that any invasives discovered can be monitored and removed before large-scale infestations can establish.
Eurasian watermilfoil is a highly problematic plant that poses significant ecological and economic challenges. Its ability to spread rapidly and form dense mats disrupts aquatic ecosystems, hampers recreational activities, and leads to costly management efforts. Addressing the spread and impact of eurasian watermilfoil requires a comprehensive approach that includes effective management strategies, public awareness, and preventative measures to protect our water bodies and the economies that depend on them. As a reminder, always remember to clean, drain, and dry your watercraft when moving from one water body to another to prevent the spread.
TOWNSHIP ORDINANCES
By Tanner Yurk, Conservation Programs Manager
As residents and stewards of the Walloon Lake area, we are privileged to live amidst stunning natural landscapes that define our community's charm and character. One vital aspect of conservation efforts in our area is the implementation of greenbelt ordinances by our local townships. Greenbelts, or natural vegetation buffer strips, are designed to protect and maintain open spaces and natural habitats and protect water quality and agricultural lands from development and urban sprawl. These regulations play a crucial role in preserving the scenic beauty, ecological balance, and recreational opportunities that define our surroundings.
Let's take a closer look at the greenbelt ordinances in each of the five townships surrounding Walloon Lake:
Bay Township, for instance, mandates a 45-foot natural vegetation strip between the water's edge and a buffer line to protect waterfronts and preserve scenic beauty. Existing vegetation must be preserved, and removed vegetation replaced with native species. Exterior lights must be shielded and below tree level. Limited pruning or removal of existing trees and shrubs is allowed for views and access. Pathways to the water's edge are permitted with width and material restrictions. Dead or unsafe trees and non-native plants
may be removed with approval. Planting native species is encouraged.
Bear Creek Township, conservation efforts align with Emmet County greenbelt zoning regulations and provisions, emphasizing the preservation of high water quality. These measures encourage the establishment of undisturbed natural areas along shorelines to trap nutrients, sediment, and prevent erosion. It is recommended that a minimum shoreline greenbelt of 35 feet be maintained. Moreover, whenever greenbelts or designated planting areas are mandated by the ordinance, a comprehensive Planting Plan must be submitted for approval during Site Plan Review. This plan outlines the scale, location, spacing, starting size, and description of each unit of plant material proposed for use within the required planting area, along with a maintenance strategy.
Evangeline Township takes a proactive approach with its Natural Vegetation Waterfront Buffer Strip mandate, stipulating the establishment and maintenance of native tree and shrub plantings. This buffer strip spans a minimum depth of 25 feet, extending across the full width of waterfront lots, with stricter requirements for lots featuring steep slopes. No lawn maintenance is allowed between the Natural Vegetation Waterfront Buffer Strip and the water’s edge, nor the use of supplemental plant nutrients.
Additionally, no sand or fill shall be placed between the shoreline and the Natural Vegetation Waterfront Buffer Strip.
Melrose Township mandates a 40-footwide Lakefront Vegetative Buffer Zone within the Walloon Lake Shoreline Protection District for residential properties. The buffer zone, or greenbelt, extends landward from the Ordinary High-Water Mark (OHWM) and is to remain natural and undisturbed. Vegetation removal is minimized for site development, with protection mandated for tree crowns and root zones. Restoration of indigenous shoreline vegetation is required post-construction, along with temporary vegetation for soil stabilization. Approval is required for the removal of fallen, dead, or dangerous trees, with limits on overall tree cutting and clearings. Landowners are encouraged to replant buffer zones with native species if needed.
Meanwhile, Resort Township enforces a 40-foot-wide greenbelt yard for waterfront developments, prioritizing the preservation of native vegetation. Additionally, strict setback regulations apply to permanent structures and impervious surfaces, with exceptions made for water-dependent facilities such as boat docks and marinas. Like Bear Creek, Resort Township must approve a comprehensive Planting Plan submitted for approval during Site Plan Review. This plan outlines the scale, location, spacing, starting size, and description of each unit of plant material proposed for use within the required planting area, along with a maintenance strategy.
These ordinances, tailored to each township's unique landscape and needs, stand as testaments to our community's commitment to responsible environmental stewardship. By striking a delicate balance between development and conservation, we ensure the enduring legacy of our natural splendor.
Shoreland BEST PRACTICES
By Tanner Yurk, Conservation Programs Manager
Shoreline management is crucial for preserving the ecological balance and recreational appeal of inland lakes in Michigan, such as our pristine Walloon Lake. With over 11,000 inland lakes dotting the landscape, Michigan's aquatic ecosystems are diverse and vital to our state’s economy. Implementing the best shoreline practices is essential for maintaining the health of Walloon Lake and the surrounding environment.
One of the primary considerations for shoreline management is vegetation. Native plants play a vital role in stabilizing soil, preventing erosion, and filtering pollutants from runoff. Therefore, it's essential to maintain a buffer zone, or greenbelt, of native vegetation along the shoreline. This buffer not only helps in erosion control but also provides wildlife habitat, improves water quality, and enhances the shoreline's aesthetic value.
Another critical aspect of shoreline management is controlling invasive species. Aggressive, non-native plants such as Eurasian watermilfoil and purple loosestrife can quickly spread and outcompete native vegetation, disrupting the ecological balance of the lake.
These plants, if allowed to establish, can drastically change the ecology of the lake and can negatively impact the economy of the area, including property values. Regular monitoring and removal of invasive species are necessary to prevent their proliferation and protect the lake's natural beauty.
Furthermore, minimizing impervious surfaces along the shoreline is vital for reducing stormwater runoff and preserving water quality. Impervious surfaces like concrete and asphalt prevent water from infiltrating into the ground, leading to increased runoff and nutrient pollution in the lake. Utilizing permeable materials for paths, driveways, and other shoreline structures can help mitigate these impacts by allowing water to percolate naturally into the soil.
Proper waste management is also crucial for maintaining the cleanliness of inland lakes. Shoreline residents and visitors should dispose of trash properly and avoid dumping any pollutants, such as chemicals or pet waste, into the lake. Dumping or disposing of yard and pet waste into the lake can increase certain elements, such as phosphorus or nitrogen, which can lead to harmful algal blooms in the lake or even harmful bacteria like E. coli.
In addition to environmental considerations, recreational activities on inland lakes should be conducted responsibly to minimize
their impact on the ecosystem. Boaters should adhere to speed limits and navigation rules to prevent shoreline erosion and disturbance to wildlife habitats. Similarly, anglers should practice catch-and-release fishing and follow size and bag limits to ensure sustainable fish populations.
Community engagement and collaboration are essential for successful shoreline management initiatives. Organizations like the WLAC along with our local governments and shoreline residents should work together to develop and implement comprehensive shoreline protection plans tailored to the specific needs of each lake. By fostering a sense of stewardship and collective responsibility, communities can safeguard the ecological integrity and recreational value of Walloon Lake for future generations to enjoy.
DROP IT DOWN LOW
Be considerate. Lower the volume.
INTERN BIO
ALLISON MONROE
Summer Intern
Allison Monroe is a Pittsburgh native who spent her summers growing up on Walloon Lake. She is a rising sophomore at Temple University, where she studies biochemistry. Outside of the office, she enjoys cuddling with her cat and reading Andy Weir novels.
WALLOON PAWTECTOR Program
The WLAC dog membership program is back and better than ever for a paws-itively fun summer! The Pawtector Program will provide wonderful opportunities to get out and about to make some new memories with your four-legged friends! Each Pawtector membership is $40 and comes with a bag of goodies for your pup and a sticker for you!
To kick off the revamped program, we will have three hikes scheduled throughout the summer for our Pawtectors to meet their fellow friends.
• June 20th @ 9:30am, Fields Preserve
• July 18th @ 9:30am, Wildwood Harbor Nature Area
• August 15th @ 9:30am, Postle Farm Preserve
We hope to see you and your furry friends there!
Make plans to join the Miami University Alumni Association Tip of the Mitt chapter for the
TUESDAY, JULY 23 • 6 P.M.
WALLOON LAKE COUNTRY CLUB 5995 Country Club Shores • Petoskey, MI 49770
More details to come!
Cost is $50. Please register by July 15 at MiamiAlum.org/TipoftheMitt24
For registration questions, contact Emily LeFevers at 513-529-1497 or email RSVP@MiamiOH.edu
For general event questions, contact Kathy Schmitt ’85 at 513-518-2048 or email KathyDSchmitt@gmail.com
CLASSIC COTTAGES of Walloon PART SIX
By Lauren Macintyre
MOORE FAMILY LOG CABIN (Pictured Above)
MICHAEL MOORE, OWNER
Indian Garden Road
Along the tranquil shores of Indian Garden lies one of Walloon’s prettiest homes, an expansive log house owned by the Moore family. This lovely home, previously featured in Traverse Magazine, was built in 1940 by noted cancer physician Donald Beaver and wife Emma. Originally a cozy cabin, it featured two bedrooms, stone fireplace and a loft. Tragically, Dr. Beaver, along with fellow physician Dr. Harrison Lilga of Petoskey, perished in a boating accident on a rough, windy night on Walloon in 1954. His widow Emma Beaver retained ownership of the cabin for many years. In 1983 Dr. Tom Moore and wife JoAnn of Indianapolis were visiting Walloon, fell in love with the cabin and knocked on the door to see if Mrs. Beaver would sell it. Happily for the Moore family she agreed to sell, after which Tom and JoAnn built a stunning addition. Today the main house showcases three bedrooms, an airy, picturesque great room complete with chandelier and fieldstone fireplace, a spacious loft perfect for visiting grandchildren, plus a rustic guesthouse and a totem pole commissioned in Alaska. Antiques and artwork fill the house. The Moores’ son Michael and wife Dana thoughtfully maintained and beautifully enhanced the home’s warm, welcoming atmosphere. Sadly, Dana passed away in May, 2024, but her bright spirit will forever be felt in this idyllic family retreat.
OTTAWAY HOME
CYNTHIA OTTAWAY, OWNER Conkle Road
Terraced, flower-filled walks leading to the lake grace the scenic setting of Cynthia Ottaway’s lovely 1940 home, which features panoramic views of the South Arm and the main body of Walloon. Originally from Indianapolis, Cynthia first came to the lake in 1955 with her husband Nick Frenzel. His family, one of the oldest on the lake, had long maintained several cottages on Sweet Pea Lane. Cynthia bought this gracious house in 1964, enlarging it to accommodate five bedrooms, then adding the terraced gardens after a storm destroyed 25 mature trees on the grounds. Her impressive collection of vintage photos is testament to the cottage’s warm atmosphere, where friends are always made welcome. The extensive grounds are completely family-centered, from a much-loved swing set in the woods to the grass beach with fire pit. Her love of flowers is very evident, from the flower beds to the profusion of blooms spilling from pots everywhere.
FASCINATING STORIES of Walloon Village
PART TWO
Marinas and Boat Works
By Lauren Macintyre
Boats, boats, boats everywhere… that is exactly how many Wallooners remember the Village of days gone by. Indeed, the building and servicing of beautiful boats has always been part of the legend and lore of Walloon.
Although it was the advent of the railroads that opened Walloon as a resort, the boats were not far behind. In 1874 the Grand Rapids & Indiana extended its tracks to a stop near Walloon called Melrose; later a depot was built in the Village, with the tracks running right to the lakefront. Upon arrival in the Village, most travelers depended on boat transportation to ferry them to their destinations, as few roads existed around Walloon.
Thus was born the era of steamboats on Walloon. Boarding steamers such as the Walloon, Tourist, Outing, Wenona, Magic and Rapid Transit, early Wallooners made their way to their hotel or cottage, often staying the entire summer. As time went on, however, many resorters wanted to enjoy their own boats. This need for private boats created a natural opportunity for local entrepreneurs to pioneer the boat business.
MERRILL BOAT LIVERY
One of the earliest boat works was started by Ransom T. Merrill, who maintained his boat livery right on the Village lakefront. A 1908 article in the Petoskey Evening News dubbed Mr. Merrill the “mighty maker of boats” and indeed, he seemed to live up to that name. He built numerous high grade gasoline launches each year, some as long as thirty feet, then delivered, serviced and stored them.
Mr. Merrill also owned a 50-room bath house at the Walloon beach, which his ads described as the “finest in this part of the state.” He even built his own hotel, Merrill
Cottage, located just south of the General Store, which later was sold and renamed Sunset Lodge.
Competition to have the fastest boat on the lake was intense — in fact, the Walloon Yacht Club was originally founded in 1907 to race power boats. Merrill boats were highly prized, with many them quite impressive in size, at twenty feet long and sporting a two cylinder, six horsepower engine. Elegant mahogany launches were soon found cruising all over the lake.
Eventually Mr. Merrill sold both his boat business and bath house to local builder Roy Brown, who had been repairing boats since 1908. Roy renamed it Brown’s Boat Livery and Bathhouse, and later added a gas station. Roy died in 1939, and his buildings eventually were bought by Frank Starr, who transformed the bathhouse into the Gray Gull Tavern.
MASTERS AND HASS BOAT COMPANY
Another early boat company, and perhaps the longest-lived of all, was founded around 1905 when master boat builder Walt Masters, Sr. and leading citizen Alfred J. Hass teamed up to build boats during the winter months. It was said that Mr. Masters had the engineering ability needed to build excellent boats, while Mr. Hass had the marketing ability to sell them. The company produced as many as 75 boats
1912 (Little Traverse Historical Society photo)
Masters had several different buildings in various locations during its long history in the Village.
One of the many beautiful motorized launches in Walloon’s early days. This one belonged to Julius Dick.
per year in its heyday. In the off-season the company produced incubators for raising chicks. Eventually Mr. Hass sold his share and the business became simply Masters Boat Works.
Walt Masters, Sr. passed away in 1936 but left the business in the very capable hands of his son Walt Masters, Jr. Despite being confined to a wheel chair for much of his life, Walt Jr. operated the boat works for 35 years and was an active, highly-respected community member.
For decades Masters was the place to go for service and to buy the fabled Chris Craft cruisers and other boats. In 1966 Masters even retrofitted a 28 foot houseboat called African Queenie destined for the crocodile-infested Chabe River in Africa, for Wallooner Ed Wilson.
Walt passed away in 1972, leaving an impressive legacy of community service. Roger Srigley later owned the business, but in 1984 it was sold to Esther Simpson and her son Bob, of Si’s Marine Service.
HEINIE GRUND MARINA
Henry (Heinie) Grund came to Walloon along with his brother William and became quite an entrepreneur. Heinie, a jovial, affable man, owned a boat livery that consisted of two buildings near Fern Cottage (now Walloon Lake Inn) on a site later occupied by the Bait Shop.
Heinie bought a boat called The Magic, possibly the first wood burning steamer on the lake, from the families of Fort Wayne Camp. Heinie operated it as a passenger service, ferrying Wallooners to and from the steam boat and hotel landings. In his book My Brother Ernest Hemingway, Leicester Hemingway vividly recalls Heinie picking up the Hemingways at Bacon’s Landing and taking them to the Village to board their train.
Heinie also rented a popular little Masters and Hass model with a one cylinder engine called a “one-lunger” or “putt-putt.” The late Noble Olds Carpenter, scion of one of Walloon’s oldest families, remembered Heinie with great amusement, and spoke fondly of Heinie’s memorable boat with its center engine and flywheel.
SI’S MARINE SERVICE
The Simpson family’s venture into the boat business began in 1937, when Si Simpson, a very talented mechanic at Masters, de-
cided to go into the marine business on his own. He bought a Quonset near Masters and founded his own highly successful marina. In 1943 he married local girl Esther Morgan who joined him in running the marina. Later Si moved his business to another building, where he also operated a gas station. Si was a dealer for Century Boats, but stored and repaired all types of boats.
The Simpsons were very well known figures in the Village for many years. After Si passed away in 1962, Esther continued to operate the business with her son Bob. In 1984 they bought Masters Boat Works to expand their business. Sadly, Esther passed away in 1985, but the marina continued under Bob’s ownership. Around 1990 Bob bought Harrington’s Marina on the West Arm to further expand the operation.
Si’s closed in 1994, but today Bob Simpson, a realtor who still lives in the Walloon area, recalls that his best memories of the marina were how nice the customers always were.
MCCUTCHEON BOAT WORKS
The boating scene on Walloon was not just about sleek power boats. Graceful sailboats — whether “W” Boats, Snipes, Highlanders, or the celebrated Seventeen square meter (17) — had plied the sparkling waters of Walloon since the 1890’s. When it came to building sailboats, one name in particular comes to mind: Ted McCutcheon, who would become one of northern Michigan’s most notable boat builders. Ted came to Walloon in 1935, and later married Peggy Hargrave, from one of Walloon’s oldest families, and herself a very talented sailor.
Ted initially operated his shop in the old Gager’s bowling alley and adjacent skating rink, on the site of today’s post office. Later, around 1946, Ted built a Quonset at the other end of the Village. Ted’s daughter Pinky McCutcheon Wagner has great memories of that Quonset. “Dad built
it after the war with some of the help from other Navy veterans, all wearing bell bottoms.” It was mostly used for sailboat storage, Pinky notes, but it was also a place of exciting adventure for the four McCutcheon children and their friends.
Ted is often associated with the much heralded 17 sailboat, a unique vessel of 24’ 6” length rigged with seventeen square meters of sails. It was created specifically for Walloon in 1934 by Bill Loughlin and Henry Jordan Cawthra, two astute young Walloon sailers with great engineering skills. In 1938 Bill Loughlin sold Loughlin Boat Works to Ted, who would continue the building of the graceful 17’s.
In February, 1956, disaster struck McCutcheon’s shop, when a runaway blaze, fueled by high winds in zero degree temperatures, burned the two shop buildings to the ground. Lost in the fire were several boats, most of Ted’s tools and several thousand feet of valuable hardwoods. Fortunately the Quonset where many boats were stored was further away and not impacted by the fire.
Ted, a man of many talents, also coached young sailers, served as Melrose Township fire chief and published a highly regarded magazine called The Northern Michigan Skipper. After closing his business in the Village in 1959, he later worked for Irish Boat Shop before opening another shop of his own, this time with sons John and Alan on Lake Charlevoix. In the 1970’s, the state of Michigan commissioned the building of a replica of the British armed sloop Welcome as a Bicentennial project, and Ted was selected to oversee its construction. Ted’s son John worked on the Welcome with him, as did Kenny Starr, also of Walloon. Today Ted, Jr., who lives just outside the Village, builds intricate model ships for various museums.
Ted McCutcheon in front of his original boat works in the Village. (Photo courtesy of Pinky McCutcheon Wagner)
Ted’s contributions to sailing, and his work on the glorious 17 sailboat will long be celebrated, especially in the year 2024, which marks the 90th anniversary of the 17 Ted passed away in 1997, but will forever be remembered by Walloon sailers. (For more information about the 90th anniversary events, go to walloon17foundation.org.)
OTHER MARINAS
While many marinas in the Village took care of boats, the Bill Gratsch Boat Livery, founded in the 1940’s, took it one step further, providing docking space for small sea planes as well. Located in the small building currently next to the public boat launch, Bill Gratsch rented boats, sold minnows and worms and provided gas to sea planes. Many Wallooners simply referred to his business as the “Bait Shop.” Bill also built the small red brick cottages that today make up the Village Resort.
Ted McCutcheon’s original Quonset continued to be used as a marina by various owners. In early 1970 Harvey Schach oper-
ated the Walloon Landing Marina there, where he served as the Chris Craft and Mercury Outboard distributor. Harvey was the builder of the fiberglass 17’s, and also sold the Highlander, Tartan and Wayfarer sailboats. Harvey’s son Jay worked there, as did daughter Connie, who fondly remembers the enjoyable boating stories that people recounted. Wallooner Bill Bray also worked five summers there, which eventually led him to his career as a naval architect. The Schachs sold the building around 1990.
As time went on, the old marinas faded away and a few newer ones, like Mike Strobel’s Triton Marina, took their place. The Village went through some sad times with deteriorating buildings until 2013, when Wallooner Jon Borisch engineered its remarkable transformation with the opening of Tommy’s Marina and the Barrel Back restaurant. Both are housed in the old Triton Marina building. The Borisches later opened the Redwood building and the Talcott event center, both in refurbished marina buildings.
In Memoriam
WILLIAM JOHN SWANSON, 1930 - May 1, 2024
William John Swanson, 93, passed away peacefully at his home in Walloon Lake, Michigan on May 1, 2024, surrounded by family. Bill was born in Brainerd, Minnesota, in 1930 to Lillian Cecile Swanson and William Jennings Swanson.
When Bill was seven, his father died. To support his mother and younger sister, Marjorie, Bill began working. He folded towels and sold tickets at the YMCA, worked a variety of odd jobs, put on magic shows and raised championship begonias. He graduated from the University of Minnesota with a Master’s degree in Education. The day after graduation he joined the Army stationed at the Presidio in San Francisco.
Soon after, Bill taught elementary school in Belmont, California, before making the transi-
tion to become a stockbroker. In 1957, he married and raised two sons, Blake and Tad. During this period, Bill was president of the YMCA and the Children’s Health Council in Palo Alto, California. He later worked in venture capital and global asset management.
In 1985, Bill married Sally Randall. They relocated to Ketchum, Idaho, and built a wonderful life together. One of their favorite places to spend time was his cabin on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. Bill rowed and paddled many whitewater rivers across the west and loved fly fishing on clear trout streams, as well as hunting elk with his sons and friends. One of his favorite side projects was restoring wetlands on Silver Creek, in Idaho.
In 2007, Bill and Sally moved to Walloon Lake, Michigan, where Sally was born and raised during the summer months.
These historic marinas, like the General Store and post office, were the center of Village life in their heyday. People stopped by the marinas to visit and hear the latest news, while children gazed with awe at beautiful Chris Crafts and other boats. Rosemary Renwick, whose parents owned the General Store, recalls running in and out of the different marinas and various adventures with friend Pinky McCutcheon Wagner and the brother Ted around the Quonset. “We were in the right place and the right time for the perfect childhood,” she comments.
Interestingly, the colorful owners of these marinas and boat works are perhaps more memorable than the boats they sold. Mention such names as Si and Esther, Walt Masters and Ted McCutcheon today, and longtime Wallooners will still smile and recall amusing anecdotes about them.
Over the years many marinas and boat works have come and gone in the Village, but the allure of boating on the sparkling waters of Walloon forever remains.
Bill was a life-long student of “How the world works”. His curiosity was never ending. He repeatedly studied new ideas and took on new projects and opportunities. His lifetime goal was to obtain “Wisdom”. He led an active, interesting life and was a mentor and friend to many. He and Sally traveled extensively together.
Bill is survived by his loving wife, Sally Randall Swanson, his two sons, Blake and Tad (Kathy), Sally’s two children Deb Stern (Brian) and Bill (Oliva) Odom, seven grandchildren: Ellie (Kevin), Jack, Parker, Harrison, Riley, Skylar, Conner, and nieces Cecelia Block (Joe) and Christina Ewing (Fletcher) and their families. Bill’s sister, Marjorie, preceded him in death.
In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation or any veterans’ organization.
Worry Less, Boat More!
The Wallooner is published three times per year in March/April, June/July and November/December, by the Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy, 4060 M-75 N Suite 102, P.O. Box 579, Walloon Lake, MI 49796
Phone (231) 535-6112 | Fax (231) 535-6114
E-mail wlac@walloon.org | Web www.walloon.org
©Copyright 2024 Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy
Walloon Lake, MI 49796
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Post Office Box 579
Small Mouth Bass found in Walloon Lake
PHOTO BY JP HATCH