Cedar Point's Western Cruise

The canals and lagoons dug by George Boeckling in 1905 were put to a new use in 1964 when the Western Cruise opened at Cedar Point. Guests were taken on a boat ride through the early history of Ohio, complete with animated Indians, snarling cougars, and frontier settlers. The ride operated at the park through the 2011 season. The area was then used for the Dinosaurs Alive attraction.

Foot of Columbus Avenue, Sandusky, Ohio

The foot of Columbus Avenue in Sandusky, Ohio was the location of Lake Erie steamer service during the years from 1870 to 1930. As this picture shows hundreds of men and women have arrived and parked their automobiles and are preparing to board steamers for Lakeside, Kelleys Island, Cedar Point, and South Bass Island.

Steamers at Columbus Avenue in Sandusky, Ohio

During its heydey, the first decades of the 20th century, Lake Erie steamer service to the islands made Sandusky's Columbus Avenue a busy place. Boats carried visitors to resorts and beaches throughout the islands.