Clark Lakers first saved the Graziani cottage from the bulldozer, then 100 years old in 1997, by moving it down the lake.  Volunteers came together to restore the historic building and create something new—the Clark Lake Community Center.  Fast forward two decades.  The structure was again in rough shape.  Once more, through widespread support, the Community Center has been thoroughly renovated.  That project is almost complete, thanks to generous donations and endless hours of volunteer work.

Clark Lakers have spoken:  save the Community Center, not only for its utility, but because it preserves Clark Lake’s past.  As cottages make way for today’s replacements, this one will stand as a cultural icon that shows how we got here.  Within its walls and from its outside presence high on the hill, this Victorian lady embodies the wonderful memories of the generations who love Clark Lake.

What’s missing?

Back in its day, it was called the “necessary.”  Why?  Indoor plumbing did not exist, as Clark Lake commenced its journey from rural outpost to recreational destination.  Through the years, indoor facilities gradually replaced the outhouses that adjoined every cottage.  A few privies still exist, but like some of the cottages they served, most have faded into history.

The outhouse at Kentucky Point that served the Graziani’s is one that has survived.  Though not used for years, it remains in good shape considering its advanced age.  A look inside helps tell the story of life at Clark Lake in its earlier days.  The Graziani’s “necessary” appears to be the deluxe model.  This “three-holer” has places for an adult female, adult male, and child.

This connection to Clark Lake’s past could be forever lost, and only to be seen in old photos or read about in stories. History draws this 6′ x 9′ structure to the house.  Its connection is like the north and south poles of magnet—they have mutual pull.  They separated when the house floated down the lake to its current location, and the outhouse stayed behind.   Now the two structures will reunite under the banner of “Completing the Movement.”

Over the last few days, the outhouse was rescued from an inglorious end .  On the Kentucky Point property of Bob and Laurie LaZebnik, the structure was firmly wedged between the garage, a maple tree, and a greenhouse.  Two volunteers pulled off an amazing engineering feat.  One of them is Mike McKay who was so instrumental in floating the house on the barge in 1997.  As he has so often done when it comes to benefiting Clark Lake, Mike once again suited up for action.  He was joined by Flip Reynolds.  Together, acting as a team, the two freed the building from its tight surroundings.  From there, the outhouse was placed on a trailer and taken to Mike’s barn for repairs.  With its base now repaired, Mike and Flip transported the privy to an area created for it at the Community Center, yesterday morning (10/14).

At its new location, the outhouse will be restored by volunteers, using leftover materials.  Once completed, it will have the charm and appearance of the house.  It will remain non-operational and locked most days.  On occasions, it will be opened for viewing.  Historical artifacts will be displayed, and entry will be prevented by a plexiglass shield.

Eventually, Clark Lake’s creative Garden Angels will landscape around the area.  West of the house, two Spirit Trail benches face each other, one to the north, the other to the south.  The Garden Angels intend to place an open-air trellis over area, thus ensuring that “completing the movement” can be a completely enjoyable experience.