02/03/2026
We recently stumbled upon some real treasures: wonderful old photos of Ephraim Yacht Harbor from the 1950s—and they were simply too special (and too fun) not to share.
A little history: Back in the early 1950s, the harbor was owned by Sam Subin of Anchor Marine in Sister Bay, marking the very beginning of its operations. Fast forward to the early 1970s, when word got out that the harbor might be sold—possibly to Chicago investors. 😱 (Yes… Chicago Bears fans. Enough said.)
“Not on our watch”, said Carl Fremming, Harry Goelz, & John Lefevre. Determined to preserve the harbor’s character and keep it local, this ambitious group of Ephraim slip-holders banded together and purchased the business. Remarkably, two of the original families from that purchase—over 53 years ago—still retain partial ownership today. That’s not just history—that’s long-term docking!
The original photos, which the Lott Family permitted us to share, show just how modest the harbor once was. Simpler days indeed. You may even spot what appears to be a Texaco fuel station on the current Ephraim Yacht Club dock - proof that times change and fuel logos come and go.
From those early days, you can clearly see how the harbor has grown and evolved through thoughtful improvements over the last 75-years.
From its humble beginnings, Ephraim Yacht Harbor has become home to second- and third-generation customers and owners, a true testament to its close-knit, family-oriented spirit. For many, the harbor has never just been a place to tie up a boat—it’s felt like family. And that sense of tradition, continuity, and community remains one of its most enduring and special qualities today.
👉 Do you have old photos, stories, or memories of Ephraim Yacht Harbor? We’d love to see them! Please feel free to share them with [email protected], for future postings about the memories of the Ephraim Yacht Harbor!