By Annessa Carlisle
For nearly 100 years Bob-Lo Island was a destination for millions arriving via the majestic steamers Ste. Claire and Columbia to what began as simple picnic grounds and grew into a full-fledged amusement park. Today, for most Detroiters the word Bob-Lo conjures up memories of boat rides, dancing, rollercoasters - a day of escape. But the story behind the amusement park was not always idyllic. The park changed hands numerous times, with each owner bringing improvements but ultimately suffering financial stress until finally closing in 1993.
The new book Bob-Lo: An Island in Troubled Waters brings to life with vivid detail the numerous changes that have swept over the island in the past 120 years, including its beginnings as a home to Wyandot Indians, a British military outpost and resort for the Motor City elite. At the center of the book is the story of the last few decades, and specifically events that have impacted the island's longest- residing private resident, Dorothy Tresness. Tresness, a spunky 85year-old has a story that is as turbulent as the island itself. Author Annessa Carlisle, of Troy, chronicles Tresness's fight to stay on the land that she has owned since the I950s, even as developers cut off her water, phone and access to transportation. Rather than sell out, Tresness chose to steadfastly stand her ground and the result is an inspiring story of David vs. Goliath proportions.
Published by Momentum Books LLC, the book includes a 22-page photo section of historical memorabilia, most of which is from the authors personal extensive collection. The book is available for $19.95 at local bookstores and on Amazon.com.
For more information visit www.boblobook.com.
