How sturdy does a yacht club have to be to withstand a fire, you ask? Well, the Columbia Yacht Club knows a thing or two about that. This grand old club, housed in the former ice-breaking ferry “Abegweit” affectionately known as “Abby”, has a history as captivating as the city it calls home. Founded in 1892, the Columbia Yacht Club has always been a floating entity. It started with a humble shed on a barge, but the club’s popularity quickly demanded larger and grander vessels. The Columbia Yacht Club has seen it all, from lavish parties attended by dignitaries like Sir Thomas Lipton to devastating fires that tested the club’s resilience. The “Abby” herself is a testament to the club’s enduring spirit. Built in 1947, she served as a vital transportation link between Prince Edward Island and mainland Canada. Today, she stands proudly on the Chicago lakefront, a symbol of the Columbia Yacht Club’s rich history and a beacon for sailing enthusiasts.
Private Florian S. Jacolik Plaque
The Private Florian S. Jacolik Plaque stands in a small park, a quiet oasis in the bustling city of Chicago.