Toledo Beach History
Toledo Beach Marina is known as being one of the largest marinas on Lake Erie. However, to older residents who recall the WW1 days, the early 20s, 30s, and 50s, the mention of Toledo Beach brings back memories of a sandy beach, dance hall, picnic grounds, and other amusements. In 1907, Toledo Rail Light and Power Co. had gained popularity and it was known as the city’s most exciting attraction. That era ended in 1922. Revived in 1932 by C.O. Miniger, President of Electric Auto-Lite Corp, but failed to reopen in 1943.In 1950, the amusement park again came back to life when Toledo brothers Virgil and Nelson Gladieux leased and then bought the 254 acre tract and invested some $200,000 in what they referred to as the New Toledo Beach.
In 1962, Virgil Gladieux had purchased a boat, but due to low water, had no place to keep it. In turn, he created the marina after dredging out the channel to provide deep water entry.
One section was leased and later sold to North Cape Yacht Club which maintains headquarters and docks for 150 boats and shares the channel with the Gladieux operation, which has over 600 docks and 350 dry racks in addition to shops, repair space, deli, and other facilities.
In 1970, due to erosion problems arising in Lake Erie, the amusement park was eventually closed. Today, Toledo Beach Marina is owned by Virgil Gladieux’s son, Timothy Gladieux and has been managed for the past thirty years by Paul Reed.
Toledo Beach Marina has over 600 docks in their protected deep water harbor. Convenient drive up parking, year round 24-hour security, modern bath house and laundry, deli, marine store and 30' x 50' pool are just some of the amenities that make Toledo Beach Marina your place on the lake.