A marvelous mansion makeover

MIDDLE BASS ISLAND — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources recently hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the restoration of the historic Lonz Mansion at Middle Bass Island State Park. A cornerstone of Ohio's winemaking history and the Lake Erie Islands' heritage, the mansion has been revitalized while carefully preserving its historic charm. "The Lonz Mansion is a vital part of Ohio's history, and we are proud to preserve and transform it into an educational experience for all park visitors," department director Mary Mertz said. "This project honors the past while creating new opportunities for visitors to experience the rich history and beauty of Middle Bass Island." Because of this restoration, it allows parkgoers to learn about the history of the Lonz family and the winery with a self-guided tour on the first floor of the mansion. The second floor provides a unique opportunity for visitors to stay overnight in a piece of Ohio's history while enjoying the island's natural beauty. The $3.9 million project, funded in large part with taxpayer dollars with some coming from donations raised by the Ohio State Parks Foundation, included: • A full exterior renovation • A new roof • Modern plumbing and heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems • Various structural improvements All this occurred while maintaining the historic character, department officials said. Next month, people can begin renting rooms out for the summer. History lesson The story of Lonz Mansion began in 1906 when August Schmidt, a well-known winemaker from Sandusky, purchased the Golden Eagle Winery and Dance Pavilion property after the original owners faced financial hardship. Schmidt built the stately 60-room Hillcrest Hotel, which once stood near the current pavilion. That same year, he constructed a four-bedroom home in the popular Queen Anne style for his family — a design known for its asymmetrical façade, large porch and tower. When George Lonz and his wife Fannie purchased the property in 1926, they turned the mansion into the center of community life. The home, built by Schmidt, became a hub of activity, especially after Prohibition ended, and the Lonz Winery flourished. The family resided in the mansion until George Lonz's death in 1969. Though it later served as housing for seasonal employees, the "big house" has remained a symbol of the region's winemaking heritage and Ohio's cultural history. Acquired by the State of Ohio in 2001 along with 124 acres of Middle Bass Island, the mansion and winery are now part of Middle Bass Island State Park. One person died and 75 people were injured in what became one of the largest and most complex rescue operations in Ohio history, the Toledo Blade reported. "The Ohio Department of Natural Resources reopened the winery as a museum in 2017 on the grounds of what is now known as Middle Bass Island State Park," according to the Blade. "It put at least $6 million into stabilizing that structure, which dates back to the 1860s." In addition to these historic locations, the park also features a campground, picnic shelter, and a 184-slip marina, making it a destination for both history lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The mansion's renovation is part of some $20 million the state has invested in Middle Bass during the past 20 years, the Blade reported, including the marina, the winery, the state park and other expenses. The Lonz Winery has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1986.