Since 1839, rowers and socialites have gathered at the Belle Isle Boat House, formerly known as the Detroit Boat Club.
After all this time, its age is showing. The wallpaper and paint is chipped in some places and the ceiling tiles are missing. Members want to restore the club to its glory days with a $5-million renovation.
"As you look around more, you see the beauty, but then you also see what we need to do," said boathouse event manager Ryan Abney, who is spearheading efforts to raise money for renovations via events and programming, reports Aleanna Siacon of the Detroit Free Press.
The Friends of Detroit Rowing has a 30-year-lease on the building. The group is hoping an upcoming fund-raiser will help pay for the renovation. The March 10 event features casino tables and a ballroom. Tickets for the 21-and-up event are $125 here.
