The first motorized boat appeared on Indian Lake in the early 1900's. By 1930, reports indicated there were a total of 13 pleasure boats and 17 speed boats operating out of Russells Point Harbor, and many more from other points around the lake. For a nickle or dime visitors could take a spin around the lake, a unique opportunity in the day. Many people have fond memories of those first boat rides at Indian Lake. Hundreds of rowboats were also available for rent to enjoy the area's great fishing and scenery. Perhaps the largest boat at the time was the "Evelyn", named for French Wilgus' daughter. It was owned and operated by Henry Blum and Cliff Binkley from 1925 until 1956. There were many other boats including the :Curio," "Orchard Island Queen," "Queen of Sandee Gables," "The Chief," "Bumblebee," "Top Hat," and the "Ghost." Some of the early Speed Boat ride concessionaires included C. S. Lawson, H.R. McGraw, Ray Gooding, O.C. Hall, Ira Bickham and Scotty Wallace.
Although not an actual boat, The Plaza Showboat was a popular scene at Indian Lake. This structure, located on the west side of Russells Point Harbor was, in fact, simply a nautical themed night club featuring Caberet style shows and fine dining. The Show Boat is included in most of
the popular old time images of the Amusement Park, Bridge, and harbor area.
After WWII, more people began to acquire their own boats. The popularity of commercial boat rides declined and by the late 1960's.they were nearly extinct. It was in these later years that the "Mark Twain," became the most popular tour boat on Indian Lake. Built in the style of a steam "paddle wheeler" by local resident Floyd Dever, this steel hauled, double-decked boat measured 18 feet wide by 60 feet long and could seat 175 passengers. Named for it's resemblance to the PT boats of WWII, the "Squaw" also known as "Brad's PT Boat" was another Indian Lake icon operated by the Bradford family well into the 1960's. Even though the commercial ride boats are all gone today, wooden boats are still celebrated on Indian Lake for their classic lines and beauty. Boating remains one of the favorite recreational activities at Indian Lake.
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