Put-In-Bay: And its Gray Ghost Ship

Put-in-Bay is a resort village located on South Bass Island in Ottawa County, Ohio. In its early years, the area was inhabited by the Ottawa and Huron tribes. In 1807, Pierpont Edwards acquired the land, and his family played a significant role in the island’s early settlement, particularly during and after the War of 1812, which saw considerable military activity due to the island’s strategic location.

Put-in-Bay is notable for its role during the War of 1812 as a base for U.S. naval commander Oliver Hazard Perry. He launched the successful Battle of Lake Erie from this location on September 10, 1813. This victory was crucial for securing American control over the Great Lakes. Today, Perry’s legacy is commemorated by the Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial.

In the late 19th century, Put-in-Bay evolved into a popular tourist destination, largely because of its favorable climate for grape farming. The name “Put-in-Bay” itself has intriguing folklore surrounding it. One popular theory suggests that the name originated from sailors seeking refuge in the bay during bad weather; they would “put in” to dock safely.

But every place of beauty has its darker side-

In the harsh winter of 1926 to 1927, a ship brimming with bootleg liquor slipped away from a Canadian port, its destination set for the bustling shores of the United States. However, the vessel soon disappeared, swallowed by the icy depths of Lake Erie, presumed to have succumbed to the ferocious grip of a winter storm that raged across the waters. In the aftermath, the icy shoreline yielded the lifeless bodies of two crew members, washed ashore like forlorn reminders of the maritime tragedy.

Yet, in an astonishing twist of fate, the ship reemerged from the depths, a spectral silhouette cloaked in a ghostly, gray mist. It glided through the eerie fog, casting an ethereal presence as it passed by Conneaut and Cleveland. Time and again, it was sighted, its haunting form lingering along the coastline of Put-In-Bay, leaving whispers of intrigue in its wake. This enigmatic vessel came to be known as “The Gray Ghost,” forever entwined in the lore of the lake it once sailed.

Hiking the Trail/Searching for a Ghost Ship off Put-In-Bay

Nearby Visits:

Fairport Harbor Lighthouse: Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake County, Fairport Harbor Lighthouse stands tall as a radiant beacon of safety, guiding countless ships and sailors through the treacherous waters of the Great Lakes.

Headlands Beach-Ohio’s longest beach

Johnson’s Island– Confederate Civil War Cemetery.

Maumee Bay State Park– Maumee Bay State Park is a popular destination known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. The park features a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, and birdwatching, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy picturesque views of Maumee Bay and the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area.

Kelleys Island and Middle Bass Island, nestled amidst the shimmering expanse of Lake Erie, have long captivated the imaginations of locals and visitors alike with their legendary tales of mysterious lights.

Cedar Point is a 364-acre amusement park located on a Lake Erie peninsula in Sandusky, Ohio owned and operated by Six Flags. Features a private mile-long beach. It opened in 1870 and is considered the second-oldest operating amusement park in the US. Cear Point is the largest amusement ride park in the world as it offers over 150 rides (including 17 roller coasters), shows, and attractions.

The African Safari Wildlife Park is a drive through wildlife park in Port Clinton, Ohio. Visitors can drive through the 65-acre preserve and watch and feed the animals from their car.

The Watering Hole – Ohio Safari Zoo and Waterpark is an indoor/outdoor family fun center with waterslides, a go-kart track, an arcade & a mini-golf course.

Catawba Island State park near Port Clinton serves as the main headquarters for the Lake Erie Islands state parks (including Kelleys Island, South Bass and Oak Point), and provides a fishing pier, launch ramp, picnic shelter and picnic areas for day-use visitors

Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, west of Port Clinton, is one of the state’s foremost birding areas and is notable for its spring and fall bird migrations

East Harbor State Park on Marblehead Peninsula sports the largest campground in the Ohio state park system • Swimming, picnicking, boating and fishing are popular at East Harbor

Marblehead Lighthouse, built in 1821, is the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation of the Great Lakes and Ohio’s 73rd state park • It is located off S.R. 163 on the east side of the Village of Marblehead

Ohio State nature preserves located in the area include  Sheldon Marsh, Old Woman Creek, Erie Sand Barrens, and DuPont Marsh

For more information on area attractions, visit

Lake Erie Shores & Islands Welcome Center(s) 

South Bass Island (Put-in-Bay) South Bass Island is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant community, and rich history. The island boasts picturesque landscapes featuring lush green parks, scenic waterfronts, and breathtaking views of Lake Erie. Visitors can explore charming shops and local eateries in the quaint village of Put-in-Bay, which serves as a hub for tourists.

Additionally, the island offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, hiking, and fishing, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Historically significant sites, such as the Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, also highlight the island’s importance in American history. Overall, South Bass Island is a captivating spot for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and a glimpse into the region’s past.

Click here for Ferries to Middle Bass and Put in Bay

If you don’t have your own boat, 2 privately operated ferries offer frequent daily service:

For more detailed info about Miller Ferry, please click here!

Miller Boat Line offers service for cars, RVS, bicyclists, & pedestrians from the mainland at Catawba • visit www.millerferry.com or call 800-500-2421 for information

The Jet Express offers service for pedestrians from Port Clinton and Sandusky • visit www.jet-express.com or call 800-245-1538 for information