1968... What Were They Thinking?
When Tom and Fran Laing took the “road less traveled” who would have guessed they would set the course for a fifty-year, three generation run in business. They harbored a dream... and without any training or business background they jumped - with both feet - into an exciting new world... With Tom still working at Bethlehem Steel we began our new life...
1969... Year One...
Our “new home” was a tired old place, built in the 1920’s, it had already seen 30 years of business as a waterfront picnic grove and dance hall. In its heyday people from Baltimore would spend summer weekends here dancing, swimming, fishing, boating, escaping the humidity of the city. But the heyday was ending when my parents took over. Ocean City was the new rave and the old parks (Tolchester Beach, Bay Shore, Betterton) were closed or closing and the smaller picnic groves like my parents weren’t far behind. But Tom and Fran rolled up their sleeves and got to work: $1.75 all you could eat "Shrimp Nites", 50 Cent Draft Beers, Sing-a-longs, Hawaiian Luau's, Hard work, Long Hours and remarkable Customers!
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Fifty years later, our sleeves are still rolled up and our Guests are still remarkable.
Each has a story to tell and when they share... it’s fascinating!
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This is what the Island View is all about; shared stories that become memories
and guests that become friends for a lifetime.
Thanks for 55 Amazing Years!
Thanks for reading
Bruce
About us: Island View Waterfront is an independent, locally-owned business near Baltimore Maryland. We have been family owned and operated since 1968. What started as a small bar and marina (read the history here), we are proud to be the currant stewards of this waterfront property on the Chesapeake Bay.
Follow us on social media for behind the scenes of the celebrations we host -
Instagram: Island View Waterfront - Weddings and Events
When you choose an independent, locally owned venue like ours, you work directly with the owner, and third generation operator Jessica, throughout your entire event planning process!
We are committed to supporting other locally owned venues around the country. A shout-out to the following venues who are offering their continued support and encouragement:
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