Legendary jazz composer Cole Porter grew up summering on Lake Maxinkuckee at Culver, (it’s even been said he developed his signature rhythm to the chug of Maxinkuckee steamboats), and on Wed, June 13, starting at 7 p.m., the Culver Marina will host a special historical boat tour to the cottage where he spent countless summertime hours. A second cruise, identical for the first, is scheduled for Tuesday, July 17, also at 7 p.m.
Local historian Jeff Kenney, of Culver-Union Twp. Heritage, will lead an “on the water” look at Porter’s Maxinkuckee years spent with childhood best friend Tommy Hendricks, whose family still owns the east shore cottage where Porter resided during his stays. Attendees at the event will disembark at the house for a special tour, including memorabilia of Porter’s time there.
The cost is $30 per person, and seating is limited, to those interested are encouraged to make a reservation by contacting Jessica at the Marina, at 574-842-3375 (ext. 103), or Jessicatilbury@culvermarina.com.
The event is the first of several history cruises this summer. Future history cruises (all led by Kenney) include: Sundays, June 24, July 8, July 22, and August 5, all starting at 7 p.m.
History cruises examine the unique architectural and historical sites on Lake Maxinkuckee, and the remarkable history of the area, from the Potawatomi Indians, to legends of literature (Lew Wallace, James Whitcomb Riley, and Booth Tarkington) who frequented the lake, to other notable figures and sites.
A special cruise centered on novelist Kurt Vonnegut Jr. and his family’s Maxinkuckee cottages and orchard is scheduled for Tues., July 10 (rain date July 11) at 7 p.m.
All cruises are $30 per person and typically last around 90 minutes.
Private boat tours may also be booked, at $30 per person with a minimum of 10 people on an agreed-upon date.
All cruises leave and return from Culver Marina, 3000 E Shore Drive. Passengers may bring a light snack or drink with them if so desired. In the event of inclement weather the cruise will be canceled (captain’s decision) and funds returned.
PHOTO: 20th century musical icon Cole Porter, left, at sail on Lake Maxinkuckee with childhood friend Tommy Hendricks and unidentified ladies in an early 20th century photo from the Hendricks-Hollowell family of Culver.
