Memories
“In the late 50s early 60s, in what is now Chez Francois, there was a laundromat on the level where Touche is now. The laundry was in the front and in the back along the river was a small apartment where Florence Vance lived. She took care of the laundry in exchange for rent. Everyone called her Violet because she loved African violets. She was a sweet ol’ gal. My mom would sit with her and visit while my dad and I would sit on the back balcony and watching the parade of boats.” Richard Long, Huron
Original Vermilion Boat Club [circa 1940]
UNVEILED July 30, 2020
SPONSORS Vermilion Boat Club
SITE 5416 Liberty Avenue, Vermilion Boat Club
ARTIST Mike Sekletar
The Vermilion Boat Club (VBC) has been part of Vermilion’s culture and landscape for over a century. It was founded on June 27, 1913 by F.W. Wakefield and Tom Ball, its first Commodore. Dues were set at $1.00 per year and the club quickly grew to 50 members.
During the early days of the VBC, the members met in a variety of locations around Vermilion. At one point, members met in the Sail Loft depicted in the postcard mural (currently the home to the Chez Francois restaurant). The nostalgia of the location, the boats, and the cars are reminders of seemingly simpler times. The image emphasizes the long history of the VBC and its members whose shared passion for the water and love of community continue today.
The VBC held its first Regatta in 1915. Titled the South Shore Regatta in 1916, it attracted people from all over to the Vermilion River to watch the competitions and enjoy parties in the streets. Over time, the parties evolved into what is now the annual Festival of the Fish, held on Fathers’ Day weekend in June.
In 1961 the VBC moved to its current location where it expanded to become a swim club, social club, dining club, and educational facility including its Sail Camp offering instruction in sailing, safety and boating skills.
Rear Commodore Jenn Casey eloquently described the value of the PAV Postcard Project: “Art is essential to all communities. It transcends age, time, interests, and any differences. It binds us together in a shared experience. This project brings us close together as a town, while inviting others to enjoy the Vermilion we all know and love.”
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Public Art Vermilion's Postcard Project