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Wawasee “Then & Now” Historical Cruise 2025

Wawasee Then and Now Historical Cruise 2025

Wawasee “Then and Now” Historical Cruise-2025

We know Lake Wawasee as Indiana’s largest natural lake, lined with impressive mansions and charming cottages. But what did its shores look like long ago? The Wawasee Then and Now Historical Cruise invites you to step back in time and explore the fascinating history of this beloved lake. Presented by Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum, this popular annual event offers a rare look at the lake’s shoreline as it once was.

Local historian Ann Garceau will narrate this 2-hour cruise aboard the SS Lillypad II, sharing captivating stories about historic hotels, notable events, famous property owners, entertainment venues, marinas, and more. A detailed booklet of historical photos will be provided so you can follow along as the cruise circles the lake. Along the way, you’ll hear little-known facts and behind-the-scenes stories that bring Lake Wawasee’s past to life.

Event Details for Wawasee Then and Now Historical Cruise 2025

  • Date: Thursday, September 25, 2025

  • Time: 1:00 – 3:00 PM (Boarding begins at 12:45 PM)

  • Location: The Frog Tavern, 1116 South Harkless Drive, Syracuse, Indiana

  • Cost: $28.52 per person

  • Tickets: Must be purchased in advance by clicking HERE.

Why Join Us on This Historical Lake Cruise?

This event offers a unique opportunity to see Lake Wawasee from a historical perspective that few ever experience. From stories of grand hotels and bustling marinas to the quiet charm of early cottages, Ann Garceau brings history to life with rich detail and captivating storytelling. Past attendees have praised the combination of scenic lake views, engaging narration, and rare archival photographs.

Snack food will be available, and a cash bar will be open throughout the cruise. Because this event sells out quickly, early ticket purchase is highly recommended.

Questions?

Call 574-377-7543 or email info@chautauquawawasee.org.

Chautauqua-Wawasee is a non-profit organization providing quality programs rooted in the four pillars of Arts, Education, Faith, and Recreation, making Syracuse and the surrounding region a wonderful place to visit, live, work, and raise a family.

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Revitalization of the Miami Culture – Indiana and Beyond

Bringing History Alive

Revitalization of the Miami Culture – Indiana and Beyond

In celebration of Archaeology Month, Chautauqua-Wawasee will host “Bringing History Alive” with a program on the Revitalization of the Miami Culture: Indiana and Beyond. The presentation is free to attend outdoors at the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation Ruddell Pavilion, 11586 N State Route 13, Syracuse, IN, on Saturday, September 6 from 10 AM to Noon.

Logan York, Tribal Historic Preservation Officer of the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma, will discuss contemporary revitalization of Myaamia culture and review ancient Tribal history of Myaamiaki neehi Myaamionki: Miami People and Miami Land, including the Tribe’s removal to and establishment in Oklahoma. The present era of revitalization, including the Tribal processes and reasoning that underlay Myaamia strategies for cultural renewal, will be Logan’s focus. He will highlight contemporary Miami art and the artists who are significant contributors to Myaamia cultural revitalization.

Two regionally famous Myaamia artists, Dani Tippmann (fine basketry) and Katrina Mitten (beadwork), will be present to share samples of their art and to dialogue about their exquisite work for attendees to view both before and after the presentation.

About the Presenters

Image of Logan York

Logan York is the Tribal Historic Preservation Officer for the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma and a citizen of the Tribe. Logan is an active member of the Miami community, attending tribal events, stomp dances, and other cultural gatherings. He has a bachelor’s degree from Miami University in Anthropology with minors in History and Archaeology. Logan came to work for the Tribe in April of 2022 after previously working for Rebecca Hawkins, the consulting archaeologist for the Miami Tribe. As THPO, he is part of the Cultural Resources Office team that is located in the Miami ancestral homelands.

Dani Tippmann is a citizen of the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma and an award-winning artist who has been beading for more than 45 years. Her works have been acquired by the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian, the Smithsonian’s Renwick Gallery of American Art in Washington, D.C., and the Eiteljorg Museum of Native American and Western Art in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Katrina Mitten, Food Program Director for the Miami Tribe, a citizen of the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma, is descended from Takumwah and Chief Richardville. She was honored by the Eiteljorg Museum of Native and Western Art as Artist in Residence (in 2012, 2014, 2015, and 2024) for being a Plant Tradition Bearer and for her mastery in basketry that is made from the gift of nature’s plant world.

Why Attend?

Step into a living history experience that bridges the past and present of the Miami people. This unique program offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from Miami Tribal leaders and artists about their cultural revitalization, ancestral traditions, and vibrant contemporary art. Learn how centuries-old practices are being renewed, view exquisite basketry and beadwork up close, and connect with the stories that continue to shape the Myaamia identity today. Whether you’re passionate about history, Indigenous culture, or the arts, you’ll leave inspired, informed, and enriched.

More Information: Follow the Chautauqua-Wawasee Facebook page or call (574) 377-7543

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Digging Through History – September 11 & 12 in Syracuse, Indiana

CHQW Digging Through History Series 2025

Digging Through History – September 11 & 12 in Syracuse, Indiana

Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum invite you to the fifth annual free two-evening series, “Digging Through History,” where history truly comes alive. Both events take place at the Syracuse Community Center, 1013 N Long Drive, Syracuse, Indiana.

Thursday, September 11 – The Pre-History of Northern Indiana

Time: 6:30 – 7:30 PM

Presented by Bryan Warder, vice president, and Pat Mooney, past president of the Indiana Archeological Society.

Discover the story of Indiana’s earliest inhabitants — people who lived here thousands of years ago and left behind remarkable stone implements. Bryan and Pat will display prehistoric artifacts and explain how they were used.

Special Feature: Bring any artifacts you’ve found for free identification and dating by Pat and Bryan.

Life and Times of Potawatomi Chief, Five Medals, has been cancelled this year.

Friday, September 12 – The Life and Times of Potawatomi Chief Five Medals-CANCELLED

Time: 6:30 – 7:30 PM

Presented by Mike Judson, this evening will explore the life of Potawatomi Chief Five Medals — a prominent leader during the frontier wars of the 1790s and the War of 1812.

Learn how Chief Five Medals:

  • Signed six treaties

  • Met Presidents George Washington and Thomas Jefferson

  • Advocated for agriculture and defended his people’s homeland

Mike will also share original artifacts and reproduction items from the era.

Event Details

  • Dates: Thursday, September 11 and Friday, September 12

  • Time: 6:30 – 7:30 PM each night

  • Location: Syracuse Community Center, 1013 N Long Drive, Syracuse, Indiana

  • Cost: Free admission

  • More Information: Follow the Chautauqua-Wawasee Facebook page or call (574) 377-7543

Why Attend?

These engaging programs are perfect for history lovers, students, families, and anyone curious about the people who once called Northern Indiana home. Bring your kids, neighbor kids, and grandkids to experience history in a hands-on, fun, and interactive way.

Presented with support from:
Indiana Historical Society, Kosciusko County Community Foundation, and Kosciusko County Convention, Recreation, and Visitors Commission.

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A Patriotic Day to Remember in Syracuse

A Patriotic Day to Remember in Syracuse

Sunday, June 29th, was truly unforgettable as Chautauqua-Wawasee hosted a powerful Patriotic Speakers program and proudly co-sponsored the spectacular Patriotic Pops Concert at Oakwood Resort.

Teddy and Edith Roosevelt reenactors at 2025 Patriotic Speakers event, on stage and greeting attendees.

Teddy and Edith Come to Life

A Historical Performance with Heart

The day began at Wawasee High School, where 172 guests stepped back in time with Teddy and Edith Roosevelt: In Their Own Words. Larry and Julia Marple portrayed the Roosevelts, truly bringing the historical couple to life with humor, insight, and heart.

A Moment to Remember

A crowd-favorite moment came when Teddy and Edith Roosevelt stepped down from the stage to meet Theodore Yoder, the youngest attendee. After sharing the origin story of the famous teddy bear, Teddy personally presented Theodore with one of his own. The boy’s grin lit up the auditorium, perfectly capturing the heart of Roosevelt’s legacy and the spirit of the event.

📸Thanks to the support of volunteers like Sheila Miller, we captured several wonderful moments from the performance.

Scenes from Patriotic Pops 2025 concert, including orchestra under a tent, face painting, and board member, Mary Moretto, celebrating with flags.

A Record-Breaking Concert on the Lake

Music, Flags, and a Whole Lot of Spirit

Later that evening, the celebration continued lakeside at the Patriotic Pops Concert. Despite the summer heat, a record-breaking crowd of more than 1,800 guests filled the lawn at Oakwood Resort, with over 50 boats cheering and honking from the water.

The Fort Wayne Philharmonic, led by the energetic Caleb Young, delivered a vibrant performance filled with emotion and joy. Teddy Roosevelt, portrayed again by Larry Marple, returned to the stage to open the concert with a booming “Bully!” and a call for everyone to wave their flags.

A Night of Family Fun and Community Pride

Families enjoyed glow necklaces, free flags, face painting, and balloon art throughout the evening. The Syracuse American Legion Post 223 presented a moving tribute during the playing of the National Anthem.

From movie themes like Superman and Jaws (complete with audience participation) to patriotic classics like Armed Forces Salute and Sing Out America, the music filled the air with celebration and community spirit.

A Personal Touch to Close the Night

As the evening came to a close, conductor Caleb Young stepped into the audience, shaking hands and personally thanking more than 25 guests — offering a heartfelt conclusion to a truly remarkable day.

📸 Photo credit: Larry Baumgardt, who beautifully captured the spirit of the Pops Concert.

Large crowd seated on lawn chairs waving flags during Patriotic Pops 2025 event in front of Oakwood Resort.

Want to see more pictures of the event? Take a look at all of the festive photos on our Facebook Page!

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Free Wednesday Evening Plein Air Paint Outs

Learn all about Plein Air painting with Dave Broerman.

Free Wednesday Evening Paint Outs at Lake Wawasee | 5:00 – 8:00 PM

Dates:
July 2, 9, 16, 23

Are you a beginner landscape painter eager to try Plein Air painting? Or a seasoned artist looking to paint alongside others in the beauty of nature? Join artist David Broerman and fellow creatives for a series of relaxed, social painting sessions around Lake Wawasee and Syracuse.

🖼️ Meet-Up Location:
Wawasee Fine Arts Gallery at South Shore Social
Meet at 5:00 PM before heading to the evening’s painting location.

🎨 What to Expect:

  • David Broerman will assist beginners and offer helpful tips

  • A limited amount of Plein Air painting equipment will be available to borrow

  • All sessions are FREE and open to the public

Join Us for an Incredible Summer of Plein Air Art!
Whether you’re interested in a custom painting, a live art experience, or getting your hands dirty in a hands-on workshop, the 2025 Summer Plein Air Events have something for everyone.

Questions?
Email: northernindianapleinair@gmail.com

Follow Chautauqua-Wawasee and NIPAA on Facebook
Stay up to date with event announcements, artist highlights, and more!

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Functional pottery made in beginner pottery workshop
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Pottery Workshop for Beginners with Kim Marcadis

Introduction

If you’ve been looking for a pottery workshop for beginners, this is your chance to work with professional potter Kim Marcadis in a small, hands-on class. Perfect for those new to clay, this workshop will guide you through creative techniques in a relaxed, encouraging environment.

About the Pottery Instructor: Kim Marcadis

Kim Marcadis is a full-time potter with a working studio and gallery in North Webster, Indiana. She specializes in playful, functional pottery that is rich in color and texture.

While most of her work is crafted on the potter’s wheel, Kim also hand-builds pieces from clay slabs. Many of her designs are inspired by nature—featuring birds, flowers, farm animals, and lake life—and she often imprints textures using natural materials like leaves and bark.

Kim first discovered pottery in eighth grade but returned to it in 2005 after moving to North Carolina. She studied at Clayworks Studio & Gallery in Charlotte, where her love for clay was rekindled. In 2016, she returned to North Webster and converted her grandfather’s mechanic shop into a studio and gallery.

Creative Process in Kim’s Pottery Workshop for Beginners

Kim’s pottery process emphasizes exploration and creativity. She fires her work in an electric oxidation kiln and uses layered surface design techniques, including:

  • Incising

  • Slip trailing

  • Painting with underglazes

  • Clear glaze finishing

These methods allow each beginner student to explore texture and technique in their own way.

Workshop Details

Workshop Title: Pottery Workshop – For Beginners
Dates: August 14, 21, and 28th
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Syracuse Community Center- 1013 N. Long Drive, Syracuse
Instructor: Kim Marcadis
Cost: $60.00 (Plus a $5.87 Eventbrite processing fee.)
Participant Limit: 8 people

To reserve your spot/ticket, please click HERE.

See Kim Marcadis’ Work Online

View more of Kim’s pieces at her gallery site:
Backwater Girl Pottery

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Ann Strong Inducted into Chautauqua-Wawasee Emeritus Board

Ann Strong Inducted into Chautauqua-Wawasee’s Emeritus Board

Chautauqua-Wawasee proudly announces the induction of long-time Lake Wawasee resident Ann Strong into the organization’s Emeritus Board. Ann’s leadership, vision, and years of service have been central to the development and growth of Chautauqua-Wawasee since its founding in 2011.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Board President Mark Knecht and Board Member Larry Lane recently presented Ann with a clock, symbolizing the time, dedication, and commitment she has given to Chautauqua-Wawasee. Her induction into the Emeritus Board is a fitting tribute to the lasting impact she has made on the organization and the Syracuse community.

Ann’s Vision for Chautauqua-Wawasee

After visiting the Chautauqua Institution in New York, which was founded in 1874 as a Methodist church camp and built on four foundational pillars (arts, education, religion, and recreation), Ann envisioned bringing a similar organization to Syracuse, based at Oakwood Park.

Oakwood Park’s History and Transition

With the philanthropic commitment of Howard Brembeck, in 1993 the Oakwood Foundation received Oakwood Park’s hotel and other properties, continuing Oakwood Park’s tradition as a recreational, cultural, and spiritual retreat center. However, after the Foundation fell upon difficult financial times and entered receivership, a new chapter began.

The Founding of Chautauqua-Wawasee

It was during this period that the Oakwood Park tradition found new life with the creation of Chautauqua-Wawasee. In 2008, Ann set in motion three years of dedicated planning with the support of the receiver. Her vision became a reality in 2011, when Chautauqua-Wawasee officially launched its first programs for the community.

Ann’s Continuing Impact

Ann served as the founder and chairman of Chautauqua-Wawasee beginning in 2011. Following the organization’s merger with the Oakwood Foundation in 2014, she continued to serve as a member of the Board of Directors, contributing her leadership and guidance to the organization’s development.

In 2014, following the organization’s merger with the Oakwood Foundation, Chautauqua-Wawasee expanded its programming and outreach with the support of Ian Rolland and the Rex Parent family. Their contributions helped strengthen Chautauqua-Wawasee’s mission to make Syracuse and the surrounding region a wonderful place to visit, live, work, and raise a family.

Today, the organization remains committed to the four pillars that shaped Ann’s original vision, offering programs throughout the year that promote the arts, encourage education, strengthen faith, and support recreation in the community.

Chautauqua-Wawasee has an exciting lineup of programs planned for 2025, continuing our tradition of celebrating arts, education, faith, and recreation. We invite you to explore all of this year’s events HERE, and why not consider joining us as a volunteer to help bring these experiences to life?  Sign up to volunteer, HERE. 

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Join us at the 2nd annual Pawasee Dog Parade
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Pawasee Dog Parade Returns to Oakwood Resort – June 7!

Second Annual Pawasee Dog Parade at Oakwood Resort

Pawasee Dog Parade Returns to Oakwood Resort – June 7!

Back by popular demand, the 2nd Annual Pawasee Dog Parade is happening Saturday, June 7, from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the beautiful Oakwood Resort in Syracuse, Indiana — and trust us, you won’t want to miss it!

Pawasee Dog Parade 2024

Last year’s parade was paws-itively delightful! From wagging tails to dazzling costumes, the laughter and community spirit were unforgettable. Dogs of all shapes and sizes strutted their stuff along the scenic parade route, and we’re bringing that same joy and energy back this year,  with even more fun in store.

What to Expect

Join us for a short and scenic quarter-mile parade route through Oakwood’s charming lakeside grounds. Whether your pup is a seasoned performer or just loves the spotlight, all are welcome.
 Feel free to decorate wagons, strollers, and leashes — and don’t forget to dress up with your dog!

Prizes Will Be Awarded For:

  • Best Dressed Dog
  • Best Dog Trick
  • Best Tail Wag
  • Plus surprise categories to keep things playful!

Hosted By

Chautauqua-Wawasee, New Hope Pet Rescue, Special O.P.S. K-9 Academy, Syracuse-Wawasee Trails, and Oakwood Resort — all joining forces to create a day filled with community, creativity, and canine cheer.

Suggested Donation

This is a free event, but we encourage a $15 donation to support New Hope Pet Rescue, a local nonprofit doing incredible work saving and caring for animals in our community.

Event Details

When: Saturday, June 7 | 10:00 a.m.–Noon
 Where: Oakwood Resort, 702 E. Lake View Road, Syracuse, Indiana
 Cost: Free | Register onsite

Learn More

 Follow us on Facebook: Chautauqua-Wawasee and be sure to check out our full list of upcoming events for more family-friendly fun!

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Thank you to our 2024 Donors

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our 2024 Donors!

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2025 Taps Across the Water – A Moving Memorial Day Tribute

Taps Across the Water

2025 Taps Across the Water – A Moving Memorial Day Tribute

Sunday, May 25, 2025, marks the 5th annual Taps Across the Water tribute across Lake Webster, Lake Wawasee, Syracuse Lake, and Lake Papakeechie.

This moving event honors U.S. military personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Trumpeters and buglers stationed around the lakes perform a stunning Echo Cascading Rendition of Taps—a four-minute, multi-directional experience that resonates powerfully across the water. Taps Across the Water creates a reverent, deeply memorable moment for attendees and participants alike.

About Taps Across the Water

Led by Dr. Matt Murdock, an educator with ties to Indianapolis and North Webster, Taps Across the Water brings together nearly 40 musicians, including:

  • Local veterans
  • Community band members
  • High school students and music directors
  • Professional trumpet players

Inspired by Jari Villanueva’s Taps Across America, Taps Across the Water also raises awareness about the shortage of live trumpet players at military funerals.

“This gives students a meaningful way to connect with their community—both now and beyond graduation.”
– Dr. Matt Murdock

Faith Bradley-2024 Bugler at Taps Across the Water

North Webster Lake Schedule

6:15 PM – Military Service at the Town Park
A brief service with live trumpet music and remarks, followed by a ceremonial salute from the North Webster American Legion Post 253 Honor Guard.

6:30 PM – Listen for Taps Across the Water
Hear the Echoing Taps from the Town Park, your pier, boat, or aboard the Dixie Sternwheeler as it launches in sync with the tribute.

7:05 PM – Trumpet Concert
Enjoy a 20-minute trumpet performance at the Town Park following Taps Across the Water.

Wawasee, Syracuse, & Papakeechie Schedule

8:10 PM – Trumpet Ensemble Concert at Oakwood Gazebo
A patriotic concert sets the tone for the evening before musicians head to their designated pier locations around the lakes.
Presented by Chautauqua-Wawasee & American Legion Post #223.

9:00 PM – Moment of Silence
Mark Knecht, Chautauqua-Wawasee Board President, says, “In addition to notifying the community, we alert the lakefront restaurants about the timing of the event and propose that guests observe one minute of silence before the starting of the Taps.”

9:09 PM – Listen for Taps Across the Water
Taps will echo across all three lakes.

“Every year people plan for this moment. Wind can affect the sound, but the impact is always powerful.”
– Karen Kroemer, Event Organizer

 

Tips for Attending Taps Across the Water in Syracuse, Indiana

  • Listen from your pier, boat, or designated public viewing locations:
    • The bridge by the Channel Marker
    • The Public Boat Launch
    • Oakwood Resort

For updates, please follow Chautauqua-Wawasee on Facebook

Join us in honoring the fallen with reverence, gratitude, and the sound of Taps.

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