For many years, a common sight in Sodus Bay on a summer day is the schooner “Lotus”. We know it today as the vessel used by the Sea Scouts for their organization. During Prohibition, according to a local resident Laurie Hayden. it served a very different purpose. Inside the vessel was a secret compartment that was used to smuggle booze from Canada on frequent trips across the lake. Thanks to Sandi Hamilton for sharing a 64 page booklet (“Memories of the Schooner Lotus” – 1939) telling its interesting history.
Read about this wonderful schooner:
