T R A V E L
This replica of the 1873 “Angel of the
Waters Fountain” in New York City’s
Central Park blesses the water below.
The impressive 73-foot diameter
elevator floor at the Yerkes
Observatory is in the 90-foot
dome that houses this 40-inch
Refractor lens telescope.
Although the area began its development
in the 1850s, it did not become a popular
destination until after the Great Chicago
Fire in 1871. Wealthy industrialists, who had
lost their homes in the fire, or had found
the resulting aftermath difficult to live
with, traveled the 80 miles to the lake.
They built massive homes there, where
their families could enjoy the beauty of
the lake, while escaping the soot and
reconstruction that plagued Chicago. The
result was that the lake was almost considered
to be a suburb of Chicago. Large
estates were built along the shoreline.
Since each was required to allow public
access along the lake’s edge, individuals
can still walk around it on a pathway today.
Many of the early mansions still exist,
while many others have been replaced
with more modern structures. Both vintage
and new ones can be admired from the
lakeside path.
The interior of the Baker House has been decorated in period items
that make dining there reminiscent of a 1920’s house party.
146 TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015