Built in 1882 by George Barringer, the saloon that is now Shipwrecked was constructed to serve the growing number of lumberjacks, sailors, and travelers in the area. Originally named the Kewanee house, it was expanded in 1904 to include guest rooms and a full dining area. Back then, a meal and a room cost 20 cents each. It operated as such under various owners until 1912 when it was renamed the Harbor Inn.
In the 1920s, Door County became a favorite retreat for Al Capone. Tunnels that run underneath this building and all over Egg Harbor made the Harbor Inn a very attractive hiding spot for Capone. These tunnels are now closed for safety reasons. It is written that the caves originated in part from Chief Tecumseh, of the Ottawa Indian Tribe, who also used them for quick getaways from other tribes. Rumor has it those who crossed Capone, including two IRS agents, were shown these tunnels and were never seen again. This shadier era in Shipwrecked’s history ceased in 1931 with Al Capone’s arrest.
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