By Kate Bartlett
Chautauqua Lake native Paul Johnson is a proud lifelong boater, historian, and retired builder/developer. He describes his connection with the lake as personal and deeply rooted in his upbringing. He is passionate for sharing its remarkable stories. Paul has spent a decade as a volunteer captain on the Bemus Point-Stow Ferry and is known for his captivating lectures on local history at Chautauqua Institution and other venues. Paul is the owner and captain of the antique Lyman boat, “One Fine Day,” where his tales of the area enrich the charter cruises he gives on Chautauqua Lake.
Paul moved to Bemus Point on the lake just before his second birthday, and attended Bemus Point schools from K-12th grade. Growing up on the lake, his love for boating started at a young age, and his great Uncle ___ gave him is first boat at just 5 years old. “I grew up hearing stories of the steamboats and hotels. I remember….quote…”, Paul obtained his NYS safe boating certificate as soon as he turned 10 years old, and obtained working papers at 14 in order to work at the local marina. What did you love about the lake back then? What was the marina like?
Paul obtained his NYS Joint Pilot & Engineer license (NYS Captains license) in 2008. His love for the lake and boating was instilled furthermore by his good friend and mentor, Charlie Cross, a legend of Chautauqua Lake boating. What did you meet Charlie and what did he teach you?
Paul found a career in property developing and building. More about career. Employer? Projects? What did you enjoy about this line of work?
He was first involved with archeological dig of the Steamer City of Cincinnati around 1975. How? Other noteworthy projects include bringing a scrapped propeller from the Steamer City of Jamestown, and being one of the few to walk on its bottom the day after it was pulled out of the water. Describe this, how was is monumental for you? In 1975, Paul became a curator at Fenton Museum when all the original founders were in their final days. He has a passion for the lake and it’s history, and finds joy in sharing this passion with others.
Paul is an expert and published author on the legacy of James Ward Packard and his familial ties to Chautauqua. He serves on the Historic Preservation Committee of the Packard Proving Ground National Historic Site in Michigan. He has held various positions serving the community including former curator for the Fenton History Museum and the Vice President of Bemus Point Historical Society.
Paul has found his niche in education as he blends “an instructor’s precision with a storyteller’s flair. I enjoy meeting so many great people and finding the high level of interest in Lake history. Chautauqua Lake has more than its fair share of interesting history” Paul has taught lectures at Packard, Chautauqua Lake Steamboats & Hotels at Lawson Center, Fenton History Center, and Chautauqua Institution. He gained recognition as an expert of Packard and as a published author in the International Packard Magazine and member of the Historic Preservation Committee of the National Historic Site Packard Proving Ground in Utica, Michigan.
Is this the type of boat you charter?
The 1966 Lyman
Twin engine, 28.5’ feet long, with 10.5 foot beam (width).
Since the boat is so wide, it is very stable and perfect for people who are new to boating. It makes a comfortable, leisurely cruise on beautiful Lake Chautauqua.
Every less than perfect board in the boat was replaced in 2017
In case of fire, I am told the Automatic fire suppression system would put out a fire before I knew I had one
Side scan sonar enables underwater exploration, particularly interesting is viewing the steamboat wrecks on the bottom of Chautauqua Lake
Web site and phone Please include contact info 😊
Paul invites everyone to spend an afternoon on the boat; his passion for history and the lake is contagious and captivating. “Let me be your captain for the day, and I promise you’ll leave with a smile on your face, a story in your mind, and a song in your heart.”
In closing, Paul reminds us of a favorite song and quote “If my Lyman boat could sing, she would be singing to me the 60’s tune “One Fine Day” by the Chiffons.”