South Bass Island facts for kids
South Bass Island is a small island located in the western part of Lake Erie. It is part of Ottawa County, Ohio, in the United States. This island is the most southern of the three Bass Islands and sits about 3 miles (4.6 km) from the southern shore of Lake Erie.
South Bass Island is the third largest island in the Lake Erie Islands group. It is also part of Put-in-Bay Township. In the bay of South Bass Island, you'll find Gibraltar Island, which is home to Ohio State University's Stone Laboratory. This lab is a special place for studying the lake and its environment.
The island is a very popular spot for fun and relaxation, especially in the summer. People often call it the "Key West of Lake Erie" because of its lively atmosphere. The village of Put-in-Bay is a favorite place for tourists. You can get to the island by ferry from nearby Port Clinton and Sandusky on the mainland. South Bass Island also hosts the annual Inter-Lake Yachting Association regatta, which is a big boating event known as Bay Week.
A very important landmark on the island is the Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial. This monument celebrates the Battle of Lake Erie, a major victory for the United States during the War of 1812. It stands tall near Put-in-Bay.
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Exploring South Bass Island
South Bass Island is about 3.7 miles (6 km) long and 1.5 miles (2.4 km) wide. It covers an area of about 1,588 acres. The island is divided into two main parts by a narrow strip of land called an isthmus. The northeastern side, known as East Point, is mostly residential, meaning people live there.
The southwestern side of the island has the island's airfield and the village center of Put-in-Bay. This is the only official community on the island. South Bass Island is about 3 miles (4.8 km) north of the closest point on the mainland, which is Scott Point in Catawba Island Township. It's also about 10 miles (16 km) north-northeast of Port Clinton, Ohio, and 14 miles (23 km) north-northwest of Sandusky, Ohio.
How to Get to the Island
Getting to South Bass Island is easy and fun! You can bring your car, bike, or just walk onto a ferry. The Miller Boat Line ferries leave from the northern tip of Catawba Island. Another option is the Jet Express, which departs from Port Clinton, Sandusky, and Lorain, Ohio.
If you have your own boat, there are many charter boat companies in the area that can take you to the island. The island also has a small airport for those who prefer to fly. Once you're on the island, a popular way to get around is by using golf carts. They are a fun and easy way to explore!
Famous People from the Island
- John Brown Jr. was a notable person who lived on South Bass Island.
South Bass Island in Stories
South Bass Island has even appeared in books! Pamela F. Service wrote a novel for young readers called Phantom Victory (1994). The main character, Terri, lives on South Bass Island. She works at an archaeological dig where they are excavating the historic Victory hotel, which unfortunately burned down in 1919.
Images for kids
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The 352-foot Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial in Put-in-Bay village.
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The Benson Ford, a lake freighter, has been adapted as a tourist attraction in Put-in-Bay.
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The Brig Niagara firing its cannons, off Put-in-Bay
