Edgewater InnHiestand, Louise Joan (Whitcomb) 1902-1983Webster, Irene (Robinson) 1898-1991

1954

from https://sdhistoricalsociety.org/publications/NLHist/NLHist/P115-116.php One of the best remembered was the Edgewater Inn, located in a large frame structure connected to Charley's Boat Livery. Looming foursquare at the base of Mason Street, it didn't look like much until you got up the steps to the top floor, where the main feature, as I recall it, was a wide, screened-in porch. Diners sat at tables almost overhanging the river with an ever-changing view of busy boat traffic against the peaceful backdrop of the forested opposite shore. It was run by Louise Heistand, Charley's wife. The meals served there were justly famous in the area, and there was often a line of people waiting to get in. I have never been a devoted fish eater, but from their menu I always chose whatever Lake Michigan fish was being offered. The cooks always had the pick of the fishing fleet catch before it was rushed off to the Palmer House and other Chicago establishments, and they knew everything there was to know about cooking it. Your serving arrived golden brown, crusty and fragrant, breaking open to delicate, white flakiness. There were hot breads, potatoes and veggies, but the memory that can still make my mouth water is that of a beautiful succulent entree, the equal of which can't be found today. I don't know how many summers the Edgewater Inn was in operation, but I recall how distressed we were when, on our arrival one season, we learned it had closed. Fortunately, then we discovered Wave Crest, run by Ethel Marcotte, Louise Hiestand's sister, in an attractive converted dwelling, quite far south on the Douglas lakeshore. No unique specialties still tickle my taste buds, except for the hot breads and desserts , but I always looked forward to what I knew would be a delicious meal when we planned to go there.