In 1933, Michigan City Yacht Club, at its inception, under a group of enterprising yachtsmen, headed by Harry Frey, gathered to form an organization dedicated to the promotion of yachting on our lakefront.

Dreams reached fruition in 1938 when the last privately owned property in the park area was found to be for sale.  The price of the property was $3500.  A plan was developed by T.M. Blackwood and James Drain to sell 140 memberships at #25 each to raise the necessary purchase price. This was accomplished and until 1956, the membership was limited to the original 140 members.

The old squatter's home was remodeled and enlarged many times over the years - mostly with volunteer help from the membership.  Dues were increased in 1949 from $10 to $20 per year, and air conditioning was added in 1955. The large flagpole out front was donated in 1981 by Ronald Muckway and Alan Hill.

In 1987, MCYC was the headquarters for the Pan American Games Yachting Competition and the foredeck was added that year as designed by yacht club member Jerry Smith.  

From this point on, peak membership in all "clubs" began to feel the effect of the more than 100 channels on television, cell phones and the internet - which changed the social structure of our world.

Once membership declined, expenses on this old facility grew and assessments were charged in addition to member dues. The spiral of declining membership with increased expenses force the closure of the facility in 2007.  

After 18 months of closure, the building was purchased by On the Lake Holdings in an effort spearheaded by Edward Arnold, a club member and Trustee.  Renovations began in earnest in February in 2008, and continue today.  Best described as "this old house times 10," one can see the result of those efforts today. From the gorgeous tongue-in-groove ceiling to the nautical accoutrements, the updated interior makes one feel as though they've entered an impeccably detailed turn-of-the-century tall ship.

Michigan City Harbor Grill opened for business in stages throughout 2008: first, lunch and weekend dinners were served on its deck beginning July 4, the inside bar was pouring drinks to celebrate Labor Day and the formal dining room opened appropriately that Thanksgiving.

The Yacht Club continues to flourish with various activities, such as the Junior Sail Program, Sailboat racing, Captain training and other social activities.  Check out our link above for details on becoming a member.  We'd be happy to provide additional information.