This portion of Kelleys Island was once farmed for grape production. The soil and climate were quite favorable for quality vineyards. Additionally, fruit trees were planted here and several pear trees still remain.
The older home a few lots to the east of the cache was built by Henry Pringnitz in the late 1800s. He owned thirteen acres along the south side of Lincoln Road all the way to the lake where he lovingly tended grape vineyards and fruit trees. He raised his family here, including my great grandmother, Elizabeth Pringnitz Ohlemacher, who was born here. Family heirs sold the property in the 1950s and I purchased a lot nearly 50 years later.
A variety of wildlife can be seen in this area. We routinely see deer, rabbits, squirrels, plus many birds including blackbirds, barn swallows, cardinals, robins, finches and hummingbirds to name a few. Barn swallows return to nest every year and typically have two clutches. There used to be wild turkeys which would roost on the dormers of my house at night or in my larger trees but they have sadly been gone for several years. Most of the ash trees in this area fell victim to the emerald ash borer disease several years ago. Oak, Maple, pear and cedar trees now grace most of this area.
This cache celebrates the vineyards and the wine industry which once flourished on the island. It also celebrates the abundance of various nesting birds in the area. This cache is located on the north west edge of my property along Lincoln Road, which is a private road. Please be respectful as you travel to GZ and keep your road speed to 10 mph or less since the village does not maintain our road.
The cache is easily extracted from its location so please do not attempt to remove the permanent fixture.