Harsens Island offered some of the best fishing and hinting ground in the St. Clair Flats. This era gave way to an entertainment growth, which brought about hotels, restaurants and an amusement park. The hotels that lined the river were splendid and magnificent, attracting sportsmen, but also lured many other by the islands charm and remote oasis. Amusement parks located on the island were quite popular. The White Star Line opened Tashmoo Park in 1897, equipped with a casino, dance pavilion, roller rink, recreation center and sports area. In 1899, the Line built the Tashmoo, a majestic 306-foot steam ship. If was the largest paddle-wheeled steamer on the lakes and could transport and accommodate 3500 passengers.