Crystal Beach Hill facts for kids
Crystal Beach Hill is a natural sand dune located in Crystal Beach, Ontario. This old dune stands about fifty feet high. It runs along the shoreline of Crystal Beach, which is on the southeastern side of Lake Erie. Crystal Beach is part of the town of Fort Erie, in Ontario, Canada.
The Hill and the nearby beach were once part of the Crystal Beach Park property. This park started in 1888. It was first a place for health treatments and religious gatherings. Later, it became a popular amusement park. A part of the ancient sand dune was even removed to make way for the park.
What is Crystal Beach Hill?
Crystal Beach Hill is a very old, natural sand dune. It formed over many years. It is about 50 feet tall. The dune stretches for about 2,000 feet, running parallel to the shore. This means it runs alongside the beach.
Where is Crystal Beach Hill located?
You can find Crystal Beach Hill in Crystal Beach, Ontario. This area is on the south-eastern shore of Lake Erie. It is part of the larger town of Fort Erie. This location makes it a unique natural feature right by the water.
History of the Hill
Crystal Beach Hill has a long and interesting past. It was closely connected to the famous Crystal Beach Park. This park was a big attraction for many years.
How did Crystal Beach Park start?
The Crystal Beach Park began in 1888. A man named John E. Rebstock first developed it. He wanted it to be a health spa. People would come there to relax and feel better. It also served as a place for religious camps. Over time, it grew into a large amusement park.
The Hill and the Park
When the amusement park was built, some of the old sand dune was changed. Parts of it were washed away. This made space for the park's attractions. The Hill became a special area linked to the park.
Life on the Hill
For many years, Crystal Beach Hill was home to people who worked at the amusement park. It had a unique community.
Who lived on the Hill?
Early workers from Crystal Beach Park lived on the Hill. These included people who worked at the rides and games. They were often called "carnies." The Crystal Beach Company rented land to them. They built small, usually one-room, shacks. These shacks were their homes after work.
Homes for border officials
Near the western side of the Hill, there were three cottages. These were built for customs and immigration officers. These officers were needed because thousands of visitors came by boat every day. They visited Crystal Beach Park and the beach. The officers helped people enter and leave the country.
Crystal Beach Hill Today
The Hill has changed a lot since the amusement park closed. It is now a private community.
How did the Hill become a community?
In 1983, the amusement park faced money problems. The Crystal Beach Company decided to sell the land. They sold the Hill directly to the people who lived there. This was a big change for the residents.
What is the Crystal Beach Hill Association?
The 40 shacks built by park workers are now modern summer homes. They are fully equipped and sit right on the beach. Including the three former customs cottages, there are 43 homes. These homes form a private, gated community. It is called the Crystal Beach Hill Association. Before, it was known as the Crystal Beach Hill Cottagers Organization.
