1783 the British purchased the island from local tribes.

The blockhouse was erected in 1786.

1887, a group of Detroiters came down to inspect the island for purchase.

In 1900 the island was sold to the Detroit, Belle Isle, and Windsor Ferry Company.

The Detroit Belle Isle line had something the White Star line did not, a ship with a large dance floor, the Columbia, built in 1902.

1910, the steamer Ste. Claire was launched

The name Boblo appeared on the company minutes for the first time in 1927.

1929, the Bug was installed on the island.

January 31, 1930, the light house burned

May 1, 1949, the Browning Steamship Lines announced the purchase of Boblo.

The Brownings paid $549,000

Bill Browning was responsible for the operation of the ships