~ Borisch Businesses In The Village Of Walloon Lake ~
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Please do not copy the photos on this site, many of which have been submitted by private individuals...
just come back and visit the site often to view the photos.
The design and compilation of the text and photos on this site are copyrighted 2014.
just come back and visit the site often to view the photos.
The design and compilation of the text and photos on this site are copyrighted 2014.
Borisch Properties
(2014 Photo Below - PRE Hotel Walloon)
(2014 Photo Below - PRE Hotel Walloon)
Above Photo Credit: Odalaigh
Photo Above: A Drone's View of The Village of Walloon Lake showing the completed Hotel Walloon on 18 May 2015!
(Compare this photo to the top photo directly above taken in 8 June 2014)
More of Charles Dawley's remarkable videos and photography can be viewed on his
Drone Photography from Charles Dawley facebook page.
(Compare this photo to the top photo directly above taken in 8 June 2014)
More of Charles Dawley's remarkable videos and photography can be viewed on his
Drone Photography from Charles Dawley facebook page.
Historical Timeline of the Borisch Properties
Butterbowl Chair From Walloon Lake |
"At one time there was a Bowl Factory at the very east end and also a Bath House and a General Store. The Bowl Factory turned out huge maple bowls used by housewives to chop vegetables. Some ingenious person even attached legs and a back to some and produced a seat of sorts."
~ James C. Whitfield, Sr. Photo Left: This butterbowl chair was purchased from the Walloon Lake Butterbowl Factory (of which James Whitfield, Sr., wrote above) and used by Louis "Lou" and Peggy Hankey. Lou and Peggy used this chair in their cottage they built on Walloon Lake. It is amazing for this historical chair to still be in existence. It would be interesting to know how many of these butterbowl chairs still exist.
The Butterbowl Factory was located between Simpsons Marina and LaPpins. The Butterbowl Factory had had a previous location in the West Arm/Mud Lake in Resort Township... then later it was moved to the North Arm in Bear Creek Township. As its business source of trees were depleted in each area, the factory finally moved to The Foot in 1884. Because of the type of business, with the name of the block of wood used for making the wooden bowls, the village was called "Skull Town" for a short period of time. Besides the bowl factory, the Village of Walloon Lake also had a handle factory to make use of the abundance of sawmills in the immediate vicinity.
When A.K. Smith located at the Foot with a bowl factory, the town took on the name of "Skull Town", the outside of the bowl blocks being called sculls. |
"In 1886 the township had a bridge built across Bear River at the foot of Bear Lake. The Boyne City-Springvale State Road was becoming a well-used trail. A.K. Smith moved his bowl factory from the north arm to the foot of the lake, and the future village of Tolcott was to be formed. In 1888 the bowl factory employed 28 people including the four or five boys who stacked the block" ~ Mildred Burns longtime Walloon Lake resident
The 2 October 1913 Otsego Herald Times newspaper article below gives an idea of the volume of business for a handle making business at that time. The Brutus Broom Handle Factory was located in Emmet County next to Walloon Lake's Charlevoix County.
For more information about the Brutus/Alanson Handle Mill,
visit Maurice Eby's on-line History of Brutus.
visit Maurice Eby's on-line History of Brutus.
When A.K. Smith originally located his bowl factory [both photos above] at The Foot, the location was where eventually The New Walloon was built on the shoreline, as pictured in several photos below. The New Walloon was built about 1900 by Alfred E. Hass. Previously, in the 1890s Mrs. James Hass had opened a Hotel Walloon as a boarding house on the other side of the road from the lake's shore. After The New Walloon was built, the Hotel Walloon building was moved to the lakeside of the road. On the north side of The New Walloon was the Club House for recreation, and with sleeping quarters on the second story. Then, the Walloon Hotel had been moved next to the Club House to be used as a kitchen and to house the help. That extra housing for the help was necessary because over 100 guests could be accommodated between both The Clubhouse, and The New Walloon. In 1908 Alfred E. Hass sold The New Walloon to Clyde A. Bear who opened a grocery in The Clubhouse, delivering groceries to the resorters around Walloon Lake. In 1914 the hotel was sold to F.A. Walterdorf, with Clyde A. Bear continuing to manage the store and the US Post Office within the store. Eventually the hotel closed as a hotel. About 1932 the hotel was torn down after it was sold to Mr. Feather of Petoskey. The New Walloon had been built in the area which housed the village marinas in later years. With the marinas, and a majority of the area of the Village of Walloon Lake having fallen into disrepair by the early 2000s, Jonathan Borisch and his son Matt began another era for the location of THE NEW WALLOON.
"In 1895 Mrs. Hass (A.E. Hass’ mother) established her boarding house in the village of Tolcott. In 1902 the railroad came in to Walloon Lake and things went in to high gear. Mr. A.E. Hass had a bowling alley called the Koneta. It had a little building attached, that was a barber shop. There was the Grund store (former A.E. Hass grocery). Ransoms, Shepard's Delicatessen, McManus bath house. The one sad note of this time was that the Clarion school burned. It was rebuilt in 1903 and is still standing the the same location that’s occupied by the one that was burned." ~ Mildred Burns, longtime Walloon Lake resident
"In 1895 Mrs. Hass (A.E. Hass’ mother) established her boarding house in the village of Tolcott. In 1902 the railroad came in to Walloon Lake and things went in to high gear. Mr. A.E. Hass had a bowling alley called the Koneta. It had a little building attached, that was a barber shop. There was the Grund store (former A.E. Hass grocery). Ransoms, Shepard's Delicatessen, McManus bath house. The one sad note of this time was that the Clarion school burned. It was rebuilt in 1903 and is still standing the the same location that’s occupied by the one that was burned." ~ Mildred Burns, longtime Walloon Lake resident
Photo Below: The New Walloon Hotel was located with
The Club House (explanations of The Club House above) for recreation to the left in the photo.
The Club House (explanations of The Club House above) for recreation to the left in the photo.
Postcard Below: Notice the water tower to the back right of The New Walloon.
A 6 July 1910 Petoskey Evening News article stated: "Considerable improvements in the nature of painting and refitting will be seen at the New Walloon. Mr. Bear announces that he will be able to accommodate not less than 125 guests this year, and will be in a condition to furnish them the usual conveniences available at any modern hotel. Chicken dinners will be a feature for every Sunday. A first class grocery stock has been put in the store, which is run in connection with the hotel, and the proprietor invites every one to 'Bear' in mind he should C.A. Bear for groceries before trading elsewhere. The post-office has been moved to the store and will no doubt prove very convenient for the summer visitors."
"The New Walloon located near the G.R. & I. Railway station,
commanding a very fine view of the lake...."
Photo Below: On the far side of The New Walloon is the Club House.
1940 Article Below: Mr. Cartwright and his wife were operating the New Walloon at Walloon Lake.
1920
When William L. Cartwright passed in 1943 he was noted as "probably one of the best known hotel men in the U.S., his acquaintance with both owners and manages was practically unlimited–to them he was 'Bill' Cartwright, hail fellow, well met! In his hotel work he was indefatigable. He employed himself in every branch of the service, and was never too busy to extend the little courtesies that stamp the successful hotel proprietor." Mrs. Harriet Cartwright, when she passed in 1959, was noted as having "managed several area hotels, including [Petoskey's] Perry Hotel, Cushman House, Ramona Park Hotel and Walloon Lake Hotel for many years."
1922
Mr. S.K. Jackson of Chicago leased the Hotel Walloon.
Mr. S.K. Jackson of Chicago leased the Hotel Walloon.
Jonathan Borisch and his son Matt, Walloon Lake residents, and businessmen, are "a true success story" for all of the residents of Walloon Lake to admire, and to embrace their accomplishments. They have, through their own initiative, totally rejuvenated a village which was literally dying, in 2011/12.
When I was growing up in Walloon Lake from about 1955, the Village of Walloon Lake was thriving. The village included on the lakeside of the road, our Sail-Inn Grill Restaurant right beside the Walloon Lake community beach, a gas station with an apartment behind it, McCutcheon's Boat Works, Browers General Store, Master's Boat Works, Si's Marina, Gratsch's Boat Livery, and the Walloon Lake Inn. On the other side of the road from the lakeside were the Melrose Township Public Park, a small building that was used for various businesses (antiques for one), Ross and Lucille Renwick's home in the previous Sunset Lodge, Renwick's General Store, the Post Office, Burt Burn's workshop sat back in from the road, where Burt provided an ice rink for everyone to use, boat storage buildings, Hass' home, another large Hass house, and then residents' homes. Continuing up the street from there on Highway 75 toward US 131 junction was March's (later The Pied Piper of Hamlin) roller rink, and then the tavern named The Junction Inn. Across US 131 was Whittaker's Gas Station and Garage on one corner, and March's Cabins and Lodge on the other corner.
It had been sad for me over the years to see the changes, and the eventual decay of the Village of Walloon Lake, from when I had known it as a bustling community. The village has struggled to endure several fires which demolished the historic styled buildings which had been constructed after the 1907 fire in the village. The Walloon Lake General Store has survived in its business over the years by offering goods, and services, which the community has sought. Condominiums rose up where the Starr's Sail-Inn Grill Restaurant had been located, but mostly the entire village had just fallen into desolation, and disrepair, until, Jonathan Borisch and his son Matt brought their ideas to the community people for their input as well. Jonathan and Matt then proceeded to have created and developed a rejuvenated Village of Walloon Lake which is pleasing to the residents, and to visitors from miles away! ~ Karla Howard Buckmaster
When I was growing up in Walloon Lake from about 1955, the Village of Walloon Lake was thriving. The village included on the lakeside of the road, our Sail-Inn Grill Restaurant right beside the Walloon Lake community beach, a gas station with an apartment behind it, McCutcheon's Boat Works, Browers General Store, Master's Boat Works, Si's Marina, Gratsch's Boat Livery, and the Walloon Lake Inn. On the other side of the road from the lakeside were the Melrose Township Public Park, a small building that was used for various businesses (antiques for one), Ross and Lucille Renwick's home in the previous Sunset Lodge, Renwick's General Store, the Post Office, Burt Burn's workshop sat back in from the road, where Burt provided an ice rink for everyone to use, boat storage buildings, Hass' home, another large Hass house, and then residents' homes. Continuing up the street from there on Highway 75 toward US 131 junction was March's (later The Pied Piper of Hamlin) roller rink, and then the tavern named The Junction Inn. Across US 131 was Whittaker's Gas Station and Garage on one corner, and March's Cabins and Lodge on the other corner.
It had been sad for me over the years to see the changes, and the eventual decay of the Village of Walloon Lake, from when I had known it as a bustling community. The village has struggled to endure several fires which demolished the historic styled buildings which had been constructed after the 1907 fire in the village. The Walloon Lake General Store has survived in its business over the years by offering goods, and services, which the community has sought. Condominiums rose up where the Starr's Sail-Inn Grill Restaurant had been located, but mostly the entire village had just fallen into desolation, and disrepair, until, Jonathan Borisch and his son Matt brought their ideas to the community people for their input as well. Jonathan and Matt then proceeded to have created and developed a rejuvenated Village of Walloon Lake which is pleasing to the residents, and to visitors from miles away! ~ Karla Howard Buckmaster
The photo above was taken in my folk's home in Walloon Lake. I often babysat for Tom and Sally Borisch's younger children, including Jonathan above, as well as his brothers Dick and Steve who were closer in age to my younger brother David. Jonathan also has an older brother Ted who is older than I. ~ Karla Howard Buckmaster
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Even in the 2nd grade photo above, Jonathan Borisch appeared to be a businessman in his suit coat and tie. |
Article Below: Jonathan Borisch's father Tom Borisch, manager of the Courter Products Division of Boyne City had the entrepreneurial spirit as illustrated in the topic of Tom's talk about the "Impact of Industry on North". Jonathan has learned well from the obvious excellent teacher he had in his father.
"Something is Beginning to Happen at The Foot!"
A Landscaped Open Area For ALL To Enjoy...
(Later called Village Green Park)
12 August 2012
A Landscaped Open Area For ALL To Enjoy...
(Later called Village Green Park)
12 August 2012
The 27 November 2012 Petoskey News Review article and photos below titled
"Big plans in store for Walloon Lake"
reveals the dreams of Jonathan Borisch and son Matt Borisch
to recreate the Village of Walloon Lake.
"Big plans in store for Walloon Lake"
reveals the dreams of Jonathan Borisch and son Matt Borisch
to recreate the Village of Walloon Lake.
Borisch brings eatery, marina, jobs to Walloon Lake
WALLOON VILLAGE MARINA ~ FEBRUARY PROGRESS (VIDEO)
Photo above is the same building on the dark blue building in the slide show below.
The photos in the slide show below were taken 22 March 2013...
The photos in the slide show below were taken 21 May 2013...
Boat school relocates to Walloon village
January 14, 2013|Ryan Bentley (231) 439-9342 - [email protected]
WALLOON LAKE -- A school that teaches boat-building and related subject matter recently cruised to a new home in Walloon Lake village, several miles south of its previous site.
The Michigan School of Boat Building & Marine Technology now is based at 4048 M-75, in a 5,000-square-foot building located to the rear of the Walloon Village General Store.
Compared to the school's old site in a rural area along U.S. 131 near Petoskey, founder/executive director Dave Lesh believes the Walloon location offers higher visibility and more of a chance to be part of a community.
"We're just thrilled," said Lesh. "It's going to be a good location."
Lesh noted appreciation for several people -- local boat builders Andrew Berge and Clarence Holman and boat enthusiasts Jack Forbes and Greg Piriot -- who've helped the school with its transition to new quarters.
The school soon will be starting a semester-long class for local high-school students in cooperation with Charlevoix-Emmet Intermediate School District's career and technical education program. This will be the second year in which the organizations have worked together to offer a course.
Lesh said 12 high-school students, from areas including Petoskey, Charlevoix, Boyne Falls, Boyne City and Central Lake, have signed up for this year's program, which will focus on marine systems. The school is revamping another high-school level program that focuses on composite construction techniques, and Lesh hopes to recruit students for that program soon.
As the school gets started, Lesh said several instructors with boat-related backgrounds are offering their services pro bono.
The school is leasing its building, previously used for storage, from Jon Borisch of Grand Rapids. Borisch and his son, Matt, have acquired several commercial properties within Walloon Lake village and are working on redevelopment plans.
Among the first new businesses will be a revamped marina and a restaurant which Matt Borisch plans to open within the next few months.
Matt Borisch also recently acquired the former Town & Country Cedar Homes complex on U.S. 131 South near Petoskey, where the boat school previously spent its first year in leased space. Plans call for the Town & Country site to be used for marine storage and service.
Jon Borisch said boat building potentially could serve as a draw for visitors to the Walloon village business district, noting its historical significance locally.
"Boat building, I think, is a real good candidate (as an attraction)," he added.
For the longer term, the Borisches may consider making another nearby site available as a home for the boat school, Jon said. A small museum focused on boats is another possibility that perhaps could share quarters with the school.
A postsecondary education program is a key offering which The Michigan School of Boat Building intends to offer in the future. Lesh said the school is exploring articulation agreements, which could allow for degrees and certificates in cooperation with institutions such as North Central Michigan College, Baker College and Ferris State University.
To get the postsecondary program and articulation agreements established though, Lesh said the school will need to continue raising funds to cover startup expenses. He sees the Borisches' interest in making the school part of Walloon village as something that could give it a boost in potential donors' minds.
The school also plans workshops for people interest in boat-building projects as a hobby or for enrichment, and will announce more details about these in the near future.
For more information about The Michigan School of Boat Building and Marine Technology, see www.themichiganschool.org or call Lesh at (317) 260-1263.
WALLOON LAKE -- A school that teaches boat-building and related subject matter recently cruised to a new home in Walloon Lake village, several miles south of its previous site.
The Michigan School of Boat Building & Marine Technology now is based at 4048 M-75, in a 5,000-square-foot building located to the rear of the Walloon Village General Store.
Compared to the school's old site in a rural area along U.S. 131 near Petoskey, founder/executive director Dave Lesh believes the Walloon location offers higher visibility and more of a chance to be part of a community.
"We're just thrilled," said Lesh. "It's going to be a good location."
Lesh noted appreciation for several people -- local boat builders Andrew Berge and Clarence Holman and boat enthusiasts Jack Forbes and Greg Piriot -- who've helped the school with its transition to new quarters.
The school soon will be starting a semester-long class for local high-school students in cooperation with Charlevoix-Emmet Intermediate School District's career and technical education program. This will be the second year in which the organizations have worked together to offer a course.
Lesh said 12 high-school students, from areas including Petoskey, Charlevoix, Boyne Falls, Boyne City and Central Lake, have signed up for this year's program, which will focus on marine systems. The school is revamping another high-school level program that focuses on composite construction techniques, and Lesh hopes to recruit students for that program soon.
As the school gets started, Lesh said several instructors with boat-related backgrounds are offering their services pro bono.
The school is leasing its building, previously used for storage, from Jon Borisch of Grand Rapids. Borisch and his son, Matt, have acquired several commercial properties within Walloon Lake village and are working on redevelopment plans.
Among the first new businesses will be a revamped marina and a restaurant which Matt Borisch plans to open within the next few months.
Matt Borisch also recently acquired the former Town & Country Cedar Homes complex on U.S. 131 South near Petoskey, where the boat school previously spent its first year in leased space. Plans call for the Town & Country site to be used for marine storage and service.
Jon Borisch said boat building potentially could serve as a draw for visitors to the Walloon village business district, noting its historical significance locally.
"Boat building, I think, is a real good candidate (as an attraction)," he added.
For the longer term, the Borisches may consider making another nearby site available as a home for the boat school, Jon said. A small museum focused on boats is another possibility that perhaps could share quarters with the school.
A postsecondary education program is a key offering which The Michigan School of Boat Building intends to offer in the future. Lesh said the school is exploring articulation agreements, which could allow for degrees and certificates in cooperation with institutions such as North Central Michigan College, Baker College and Ferris State University.
To get the postsecondary program and articulation agreements established though, Lesh said the school will need to continue raising funds to cover startup expenses. He sees the Borisches' interest in making the school part of Walloon village as something that could give it a boost in potential donors' minds.
The school also plans workshops for people interest in boat-building projects as a hobby or for enrichment, and will announce more details about these in the near future.
For more information about The Michigan School of Boat Building and Marine Technology, see www.themichiganschool.org or call Lesh at (317) 260-1263.
~ David Early Lesh Sr. ~
(25 April 1953 ~ 21 June 2013)
Founder of The Michigan School of Boat Building
and Marine Technology in Walloon Lake
(25 April 1953 ~ 21 June 2013)
Founder of The Michigan School of Boat Building
and Marine Technology in Walloon Lake
Article Below: 24 May 2013 ~ Petoskey News Review
The Walloon Village Marina features various events as
scheduled on their calendar.
scheduled on their calendar.
Tommy's (Wakeboard and Waterski Pro Shop on Walloon Lake)
Walloon Village Marina is a full service boat dealer and marina,
located on Walloon Lake.
Walloon Village Marina is a full service boat dealer and marina,
located on Walloon Lake.
The photos in the slide show below were taken 18 June 2013...
Four Photos Below Left to Right, Top to Bottom: DJ Flynn the Head Chef of the Barrel Back Restaurant visited our table as we were finishing our delicious meal... one being gluten-free! It is good to know that most anything on the menu can be prepared gluten-free! Carol Everts VanGilder [a Walloon Lake (Melrose) School classmate of mine] and her husband Dick joined us for lunch at the Barrel Back. The open air dining was perfect with only a slight warm breeze that can only be felt as it drifts over Walloon Lake. In the evening we attended our 50th Petoskey High School Class Reunion at the Petoskey Bay View Country Club in Petoskey MI. Bottom photos taken from the balcony landing of the Barrel Back Restaurant showed Sheldon and me on the right with Carol and Dick, with Walloon Lake in the left background, and The Shores of Walloon condos in the right background where my Starr Family's Sail Inn Grill had been located. It was a gorgeous day at The Foot, bringing back sweet memories from times when Carol and I, and other friends, spent our younger days there. ~ Karla Howard Buckmaster
Photo Below: Barrel Back Restaurant from the waters of Walloon Lake...
Early Ice Skating
~ Frank "Burt" Burns' Ice Rink at the Foot by Burt's Workshop ~
I took this photo below on 20 November 2013 of the Barrel Back Restaurant. At the side of the restaurant, a new public ice skating rink was being prepared which was noted in the Petoskey News Review photos/article below on the same date. Just the prospect of this ice rink has brought back wonderful memories for me. In the 1950s Burt Burns created, and cared for, an ice rink beside his workshop. Burt's workshop still stands on the other side of the road from the Walloon Lake 2013/14 ice rink, in the ownership of Burt's son Irvin Burns. Burt allowed all of the community residents to use his rink... turned out to be mostly neighborhood young people, including Pinky McCutcheon and Norm Stevens shown in the four photos above. This rink and activity gave us a place to hang out which was safe, and even warm because Burt allowed us to come inside his workshop to warm up periodically. Burt's workshop included vats for curing hides, as well as his potbelly stove which generated the warm atmosphere. Great memories are created by wonderful community minded people. ~ Karla Howard Buckmaster
I cannot remember ever in my lifetime of having seen so many nice Christmas decorations in the Village of Walloon Lake.
On 20 November 2013, it was a beautiful sight to behold!
~ Karla Howard Buckmaster
~ Play the slide show below to enjoy the holiday decorated village. ~
On 20 November 2013, it was a beautiful sight to behold!
~ Karla Howard Buckmaster
~ Play the slide show below to enjoy the holiday decorated village. ~
The photos in the slide show below were taken 8 February 2014...
Play the slide show below to enjoy seeing the beauty of the seasonal lights,
and of the ice rink which is open to the public.
Two panarama photos below of ice rink from one end of the balcony
to the other end of the balcony on the Barrel Back Restaurant...
to the other end of the balcony on the Barrel Back Restaurant...
Photo Below: The Northern Lower Michigan winter of 2024 was an oddity, with snow, ice, and winter temperatures unfavorable to creating and maintaining the Walloon Lake village park's ice rink. Maybe some ice skating has taken place, but not much... the overall winter has been too warm for a truly functioning rink.
Summer Again... 2014
Entrepreneur of the Year Award
Matt Borisch
Matt Borisch
Winter Again... November 2014
and
January 2015
2017 Fire at Barrel Back
On 31 January 2017, the Petoskey News Review reported that the Barrel Back noon time fire
was confined to the ventilation system.
Within a week the restaurant was repaired and running again.
2021 Places in the Wintery Village of Walloon Lake
Borisch Retail Spaces
(Located Directly Across the Street From the Barrel Back Restaurant)
(Located Directly Across the Street From the Barrel Back Restaurant)
As of 4 May 2014 (above photo)
signs in front of the Borisch Retail Space show space will be shared with
K L K Interior Architecture & Design,
Greetis Design Group, and
Kidd & Leavey Real Estate,
all with other areas in the building and more room to lease.
signs in front of the Borisch Retail Space show space will be shared with
K L K Interior Architecture & Design,
Greetis Design Group, and
Kidd & Leavey Real Estate,
all with other areas in the building and more room to lease.
Two Photos Below: Retail Space has added Lake Custom Builders
and Vogue on the Lake according to their sign.
and Vogue on the Lake according to their sign.
The Hotel Walloon has added a 3000 square foot event center... The Talcott
Two photos above and two photos below:
The photo below left, is the Penniman cottage when located on the South Shore of Walloon Lake. This structure was moved in 2013 to The Foot of Walloon Lake and is now one of the stores (across from and north of the Borisch Family's new Tommy’s) as seen in the two photos above. This cottage was owned by John Penniman and was called "Kokomo Cottage". The cement walkway helps to identify this property. The preservation of this cottage helps to maintains the character of The Foot in the Village of Walloon Lake.
Both the Penniman and Bugg properties and their respective boathouses are in the photo below right. The Bugg's boathouse was removed in the 1970s.
The photo below left, is the Penniman cottage when located on the South Shore of Walloon Lake. This structure was moved in 2013 to The Foot of Walloon Lake and is now one of the stores (across from and north of the Borisch Family's new Tommy’s) as seen in the two photos above. This cottage was owned by John Penniman and was called "Kokomo Cottage". The cement walkway helps to identify this property. The preservation of this cottage helps to maintains the character of The Foot in the Village of Walloon Lake.
Both the Penniman and Bugg properties and their respective boathouses are in the photo below right. The Bugg's boathouse was removed in the 1970s.
Photo Above Right: The Sweet Tooth House had been moved from across the street
where it had been located beside the Barrel Back.
where it had been located beside the Barrel Back.
Click PLAY on upper left corner of slideshow below to view photos of Walloon Lake Village businesses.
2014
2014
In 2015 the little gray cottage housed the retail store for
"GREAT LAKES RECLAIMED ~ Inspired Goods For The Home".
The wood shop for GREAT LAKES RECLAIMED is in downtown Petoskey MI at 1008 Franklin Street... owned by Jim and Lisa Millen.
The products of GREAT LAKES RECLAIMED are shown on Etsy, and also are discussed on their Facebook page.
[UPDATE: Great Lakes Reclaimed ceased to be in business in 2023-2024]
Wookiee's Place to the right of Vintage Mercantile in 2016
2022
UPDATE on Above Photo: This space/location once occupied by the temporary tent, now (2022/2023) is the home of The Lofts on Walloon. Additional information about the new business may be accessed on the Businesses web page on this same web site by clicking HERE.
Walloon Lake Inn
4178 West Street Walloon Lake MI
(Previously known as Silver Birch Inn, and Fern Cottage Hotel before that...)
On this Walloon Lake Wanderings website, some of the history of the Walloon Lake Inn
is listed on the "Resorts" webpage
as it was, before it became a part of the Borisch Properties.
Click Here for this "Resorts" webpage for more WLI History.
4178 West Street Walloon Lake MI
(Previously known as Silver Birch Inn, and Fern Cottage Hotel before that...)
On this Walloon Lake Wanderings website, some of the history of the Walloon Lake Inn
is listed on the "Resorts" webpage
as it was, before it became a part of the Borisch Properties.
Click Here for this "Resorts" webpage for more WLI History.
“The dining room overlooks Walloon Lake and seats 70 people,” Beier points out. “The pine-paneled porch is the perfect Northern counterpoint to the crisp linens that drape the tables. In the summer, the covered deck overlooking the lake is enjoyed by many for a drink as many of our guests arrive by boat. The Inn has always strived to serve cuisine that is excellent in quality with a restrained service and atmosphere. We emphasize consistency, quality, and value.”
The addition of Walloon Lake Inn 19 January 2014 purchased by Matt Borisch from Chef David Beier was posted on Walloon Lake Inn Facebook page:
The Walloon Lake Inn has some very exciting news. Established in 1891, the Walloon Lake Inn has been owned and operated by Chef David Beier for the last 33 years. Now he has chosen to hand off the baton. On January 9th, the sale of the Walloon Lake Inn was finalized, which formally transitions management of the 122-year-old restaurant to Chef Daniel Flynn and General Manager Bryan Banfield.
"The long and great tradition of the Walloon Lake Inn continues. As I pass the baton to the Borisch Family, I have absolute confidence that the events and memories that we all cherished will continue to grow." - Chef/Owner David Beier
Walloon Lake Inn will continue to be a fine dining establishment, taking reservations, private parties, and walk-in's if available as was done in the past. Many of the comforts people have enjoyed in years past will remain the same. It is expected the restaurant will be open May-September for 2014 as well as 2 weeks around Christmas and for private events during the other months.
"The menu will feel classic, centered in ingredients of the highest quality, and traditional preparations. The menu will pay homage to the history of dining at Walloon Lake Inn, hopefully even featuring some of their timeless favorites. We intend to preserve and also create anew a unique destination for an experience of luxury and leisure." - Chef Daniel Flynn
Over the next several months, the restaurant interior will undergo a remodel and update which will enhance the fine dining experience in the beautiful northern Michigan setting.
"We really want to make sure that we keep the history of the longstanding building intact. We'll begin the remodel this week, which will include a kitchen renovation, a new bar built on the West side of the room, and numerous other updates. We'll be incorporating historical aspects of the Inn as much as possible." - Bryan Banfield
Stay updated on pictures and progress by liking us on facebook and through our website www.walloonlakeinn.com
1 March 2014 ~ Walloon Lake Inn
(Interior Renovation Underway)
Grand Opening on Mother's Day ~ 11 May 2014
The chandeliers shone through the windows of the newly renovated Walloon Lake Inn,
only one week away from the Grand Opening.
only one week away from the Grand Opening.
Probably in my Lifetime, I will never experience, finer, "fine dining" than when Sheldon and I attended the soft opening on 9 May 2014 of the Borisch's Walloon Lake Inn. We were guests "numbers one and two"... what an honor!
Matt Borisch took time to sit with us, and visit. Later, we spoke with Matt's parents Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Borisch (photo below right) when I was able to tell Jonathan he does not look much different now, except taller, from when I babysat him when he was about four years old [See photo toward the top of this webpage]. I also told him how proud I am of all that he, and his family, have been able to accomplish in his Lifetime, including so many projects for the betterment of the community of Walloon Lake.
~ Karla Howard Buckmaster
Matt Borisch took time to sit with us, and visit. Later, we spoke with Matt's parents Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Borisch (photo below right) when I was able to tell Jonathan he does not look much different now, except taller, from when I babysat him when he was about four years old [See photo toward the top of this webpage]. I also told him how proud I am of all that he, and his family, have been able to accomplish in his Lifetime, including so many projects for the betterment of the community of Walloon Lake.
~ Karla Howard Buckmaster
With plenty of fine fare, and drinks, from which to choose at the Walloon Lake Inn, I chose the following: Appetizer: Morel Mushrooms, Garlic, Shallot, Madeira, Parmigiano Reggiano, Baguette Toast. Soup & Salad: Chopped, Bacon, Tomato, Apple, Candied Pecans, Blue Cheese, Sherry Vinaigrette Principal Course: Pan Fried Ruby Red Trout, Shitake, Dried Cherries, Rice Wine Beurre Blanc, Frisee. Dessert: Creme Caramel. |
Chef Daniel Flynn and staff prepare so much more from the Walloon Lake Inn menu than what Sheldon and I ordered... something to satisfy every palate. With the relaxed ambiance, with piano playing in the background, and with dining before the shores of Walloon Lake, the whole experience in the newly renovated Walloon Lake Inn, was definitely "fine dining".
We met most of the staff of the Walloon Lake Inn including Bryan Banfield the General Manager,
along with Randy being our personal server,
as viewed in the slideshow below.
along with Randy being our personal server,
as viewed in the slideshow below.
2022
Adding to the Walloon Lake Inn's various experiences in the lower level,
the upper level now features...
The Varnish Room for Private Dining.
Click HERE for additional information about The Varnish Room.
the upper level now features...
The Varnish Room for Private Dining.
Click HERE for additional information about The Varnish Room.
The following photos of the Walloon Lake Inn interior were taken February 2023
and submitted by Walloon resident Dawn Sarasin...
The Varnish Room Upstairs
(inspired by the varnish on the old Woodies boats that grace Walloon Lake)
The picture below hangs on the wall of the Varnish Room.
and submitted by Walloon resident Dawn Sarasin...
The Varnish Room Upstairs
(inspired by the varnish on the old Woodies boats that grace Walloon Lake)
The picture below hangs on the wall of the Varnish Room.
~ Possibility (Reality) of another New Walloon Hotel ~
Jonathan Borisch owns the piece of property of the description on the Zoning Appeal advertised on the right. The long gray building located next to where Si's Marine was, is now apartments. It was originally put up by the Rentschlers. The Zoning appeal states that the present building would be torn down, and an Inn would be constructed.
|
View the slideshow below of photos taken 4 May 2014
from the vantage view of the Barrel Back Restaurant,
with the gray apartment building already removed,
and the location ready for the beginning of a New Walloon Lake Hotel;
and, some photos of the views from street level...
from the vantage view of the Barrel Back Restaurant,
with the gray apartment building already removed,
and the location ready for the beginning of a New Walloon Lake Hotel;
and, some photos of the views from street level...
Father-son duo turns small village into a booming development
preparing new hotel...
(View YouTube Story)
preparing new hotel...
(View YouTube Story)
Photo Credit: Odalaigh
~ Hotel Walloon Coming Soon ~
4 September 2014
Watch the slideshow below to view the progress...
23 September 2014
Watch the slideshow below to view the progress...
Watch the slideshow below to view the progress...
16 October 2014
(Below)
16 November 2014
(Below)
31 January 2015 AND 7 February 2015
(Below)
26 April 2015
(Below)
(Below)
~ Hotel Walloon ~
Opened May 2015
Opened May 2015
The HOPE and VISION for the saving of the Village of Walloon Lake can be credited to the Borisch Family. The Village of Walloon Lake, other than for the general store, and the new condominiums, was not in the stage of dying, but was already dead, when the Borisch Family stepped in to rescue the village atmosphere which had existed many years ago in the 1960s... only the buildings and businesses were to embody those of the 2015 timeframe. The village is alive again!
The outlook for Walloon Lake village was documented in the 6 July 2015 on-line news article titled: "How one developer singlehandedly saved the village of Walloon Lake."
The outlook for Walloon Lake village was documented in the 6 July 2015 on-line news article titled: "How one developer singlehandedly saved the village of Walloon Lake."
Catie L'Heureux on 8 August 2016 had published with MyNorth on-line
her historical perspective of The Foot at Walloon Lake,
including the vast contributions made by the Borisch Family.
~ 2019 ~
Jonathan Borisch has made great strides in five years for the
Village of Walloon Lake... THE FOOT.
Jonathan is still motivated to move forward with new visions for the village.
Jonathan's ideas are summed up in an article in the
8 June 2019 Northern Express article by Patrick Sullivan
"The Making of a Public Space ~
Five years into a privately led massive reinvention,
the redevelopment of the Village of Walloon Lake isn’t slowing down".
Jonathan Borisch has made great strides in five years for the
Village of Walloon Lake... THE FOOT.
Jonathan is still motivated to move forward with new visions for the village.
Jonathan's ideas are summed up in an article in the
8 June 2019 Northern Express article by Patrick Sullivan
"The Making of a Public Space ~
Five years into a privately led massive reinvention,
the redevelopment of the Village of Walloon Lake isn’t slowing down".
The 10 July 2019 Petoskey News Review published an article titled "Walloon Lake Developer Proposes to Sell Park to Melrose Township". Jonathan Borisch is offering to sell his park land known as Village Circle Park and a related parking lot to the township for a public use at a price of about $2.2 million.
~ 2020 ~
Photo Below: PRE-The Lofts on Walloon and General Store NOT yet razed.
Photo Below: Hotel Walloon and Barrel Back Restaurant
from the waters of Walloon Lake
2022
from the waters of Walloon Lake
2022
The Renwick Building
New Borisch Family project Coming Late 2023
(Announced 6 December 2022 with signage by the Borisch Family)
Click HERE to access Progress on The Renwick Building
at the previous Renwick General Store and Sunset Lodge location
on this same web site.
New Borisch Family project Coming Late 2023
(Announced 6 December 2022 with signage by the Borisch Family)
Click HERE to access Progress on The Renwick Building
at the previous Renwick General Store and Sunset Lodge location
on this same web site.