Corlear Bay on Lake Champlain
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Nestled along Lake Champlain’s western shores near its widest part, the waters of Corlear Bay have played host to the stories of families, residents, and visitors alike for well over a century. This outing offers special access to numerous historic private camps and residences, each featuring its own unique history that contributes to our understanding of the area as an off-the-beaten-path summer home, tourist, and lakeside recreation destination. At the Kessel Park Inn, learn about how this early turn-of-the-twentieth-century building retains ties to the early movie industry through its original resident, Adam Kessel, Jr. Although overlooked historically, Kessel played a major role in shaping early Hollywood from his home on Lake Champlain, including his founding of Keystone Comedies production company that pioneered early silent comedies featuring Charlie Chaplin and other prolific actors of the time. Next, we will visit Point O’ Rocks, a charming complex bounded by two other historic properties, each featuring different eras of camp architecture. Finally, we have been granted rare access to explore the private cottages and camps of the Corlear Bay Club, a cluster of camps built between 1914 and the late 1920s, that defined by their proximity to Lake Champlain, the magnificent views they offer, and the experiences of families who have rented or resided there over the last century. Those who attend this outing will be treated to a truly extraordinary excursion into camp life in this secluded corner of the Adirondacks.
This tour is led by Kessel Park Inn stewards Zoanne & Rich Schnell, AARCH members Maria & Rick Russell, and several members of the Corlear Bay Club. The tour begins at 10 AM and ends around 3:30 PM.
The fee is $65 for AARCH sponsor-level members and above only.
Please note that this tour features a fair amount of walking along dirt roads and some uneven terrain. Participants will be asked to carpool to allow for more efficient parking.