WA-LI-RO

   From 1933 until the 1970’s there was a summer camp on South Bass Island for Episcopal and Anglican choristers. Named Wa-Li-Ro after Ohio Episcopal Bishop WAlter Lincoln ROdgers, it created fond memories for thousands of boys, clergyman, organists and choirmasters from all over the United States and Canada.
   Choir practice took place at the St. Paul’s Episcopal Church of Put-in-Bay. In the first years, the boys were housed at the Bay View Hotel and then for four years at the Smith Hotel (Country House). About 1940, the organization purchased the Conlen boarding house on Toledo Avenue known more recently as “ Mr. T’s.” Mrs. Sophia Gebeau, known as Mrs. G, was the cook and housekeeper for Wa-Li-Ro for over 25 years.
   American composer Leo Sowerby was a frequent guest and wrote an anthem for Wa-Li-Ro. British composer Sir Sidney Nicholson also wrote a song for the camp.
   The museum has a small collection of Wa-Li-Ro memorabilia including the sign, a t-shirt and pieces of china. L.E.I.H.S. also maintains a registry of “alumnae” who contact the museum and welcomes additions to this list of names and donations of artifacts and photos.
   Michael Bennett of Sault Ste Marie, Canada, donated the artifacts and has kept the history alive by creating a Wa-Li-Ro Association. You can contact Mr. Bennett through the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society by writing to director@leihs.org.