Overview

Discover why generations have been drawn to this enchanting west Michigan retreat, and why families and friends continue to call Bass Lake their summer home.More than a century ago, campers became captivated by the serene beauty of the small lake near Pentwater, nestled beside Lake Michigan. Early on, getting to Bass Lake was challenging. Accommodations were sparse. Living conditions were primitive. Despite the difficulties, newcomers' hearts were charmed by this tranquil haven-the undeniable lure of the lake, surrounding woods, nearby sugar-sand beaches, and the restorative effect of spending cherished time with loved ones. Today, Bass Lake cottagers, campers, and other annual visitors embrace the same sense of belonging when returning to this beloved spot. In This Is Bass Lake: A Destination for Generations, the Bass Lake Property Owners Association presents an authentic telling of the lake's story by weaving together narratives of voices past and present and offering a nostalgic look at treasured summer traditions.

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9781965278956

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Reviews

""With meticulous research and vivid storytelling, the Bass Lake History Committee brings the history of Bass Lake to life, capturing the spirit of its people, the richness of its landscapes, and the echoes of its past. As someone who grew up here, I found this book both deeply familiar and surprisingly relevant - uncovering forgotten stories, illuminating well-known legends, and weaving them together in a way that makes history feel alive. A must-read for anyone who loves Bass Lake or simply appreciates masterful historical storytelling."" -Dick Warner, president, Pentwater Historical Society ""This Is Bass Lake: A Destination for Generations is a tapestry of the 110-year history of a beloved vacation destination that has drawn generations of visitors to its shores. Compiled from both personal stories and the broader historical context of the region, this collection explores the area's rich past - from its early settlers and indigenous roots to the rise of bustling resorts and charming cottages. Brimming with cherished memories, folklore, and historical accounts, it paints a vivid picture of a lakeside retreat that became a summer haven for so many. Organized for easy reading, this book offers a journey through time, celebrating the spirit of a community that continues to thrive."" -Amy Vander Zwart, editor, Pentwater Pride ""As a relative newcomer to Bass Lake (circa 1975), a historic flat tire forever linked my family to Whispering Surf Campground and Bass Lake. This Is Bass Lake: A Destination for Generations has eloquently captured the rich history of this remarkable western Michigan 'hidden gem.' The Bass Lake History Committee's dedication and commitment to this project has resulted in the delivery of a comprehensive look into Bass Lake's storied past, including an in-depth review of the all-volunteer lake association founded in 1915. Through responsible stewardship, the Bass Lake Property Owners Association continues more than a century of service to Bass Lake residents, and safeguards the lake's natural beauty and tranquil landscape for generations to come."" -Dan James, president, Bass Lake Property Owners Association

Author Information

The Bass Lake History Committee's six members are connected in unique ways yet share a common heritage-two are sisters, two are married, and two are third cousins. Collectively, they represent more than 500 years of family history at west Michigan's Bass Lake. Barbara Barrow Achenbaum lives in Connecticut but is happiest at Franklin's Folly, her grandfather's cottage purchased seventy-five years ago. Her professional experience includes brand management, communications, and grant writing. She now helps preserve stories of family and friends for future generations. Carla Barrow resides in Illinois. Her lifelong passion for Bass Lake made her a logical fit for this history project. As a teenager, she developed an interest in storytelling through interviews and photography. Today, she's a self-taught archivist preserving memorabilia through scrapbooks she gifts to volunteer organizations. Kyle and Pam Chapman live in Indiana and spend retirement summers at Bass Lake. Kyle's family history with the lake goes back to 1896 and his great-grandfather Gilbert's Bass Lake vision. A past president of the Bass Lake Property Owners Association, Kyle currently leads the Bass Lake Improvement Board. Pam has a communications background and now pursues her interest in genealogy and historical preservation. Wendy Wanzer Jonkers resides in North Carolina and is a fourth generation Bass Laker. Growing up, she loved hearing stories of her parents' childhood Bass Lake summers. As president of the Bass Lake Property Owners Association in 2021, she cast the vision of preserving and sharing more than a century of stories. Charity Gilbert Monroe lives in Illinois and vacations at her cottage built by her great-grandmother. Charity's family has enjoyed Bass Lake sailing and boating since 1902. A retired engineer and avid photographer, she's self-published three books of family history.

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