Wayzata and the Steamboat Minnehaha

We spent Sunday afternoon in Wayzata, where Mike lived until the 5th grade. Mike's Mom and her parents all grew up there too.

We started at the old Wayzata Train Depot, which now houses a museum of local history. We walked around there waiting for the Steamboat Minnehaha for a cruise around Wayzata Bay, which is part of Lake Minnetonka.

Here is most of the group in front of the depot.

Liza in front of the model railroad layout at the depot.

Here is a video of our boat coming in.

Time to go aboard.

 

The Steamboat Minnehaha was built in 1906 as part of a 6 boat fleet of "streetcar boats" servicing Lake Minnetonka. It was in service until the 1920's, but when service was discontinued it was sunk in 1926. In 1980 the remains were found and raised, with restoration starting in 1990. It returned to service in 1996 and now provides tours between Excelsior and Wayzata, as well as tours around Wayzata Bay. For more details check out this link: http://www.steamboatminnehaha.org/

Paul had a great time talking to the engineer about the engine and the boat. We don't know if he saw much of the lake.

A video when leaving the dock.

Some of the mansions along the lake in the Ferndale section of Wayzata. I am not sure who lives in some of these now, but in the past I know that the Dayton's and Pillsburys had houses along here.

A few pictures on the boat.

The Wayzata shore front.

We looked around inside the Depot after our boat trip. Mike's family on his Mom's side hasa long history in the area, going back to his Great-Great Grandfather Miles Dickey.

It was a beautiful ride on Lake Minnetonka and we eventually made our way to McCormacks Pub and Restaurant for a cold beverage and some lunch. We then toured around town, going by Mike's old house and other sites from his childhood. It is always nice to visit Wayzata and see how much it has changed since Mike and his siblings were growing up there.

 

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