“Spreeman’s Landing”, a commercial fishing and boat rental business, was established around the turn of the century on a beach that is the present site of the gas dock. Crystal Spreeman sold the property to Bill and Bert Skluzacek in 1956. They renamed the business after the windmill on site, which is still prominently displayed in front of the marina office.
In 1957, the Skluzacek’s built their home on the property and began work to create a functioning marina business. After three years of dredging, the north harbor was completed and Windmill Marina was officially open for business with a total of 13 slips and a few rental-fishing boats.
More slips were added, launching and parking facilities were improved and rental houseboats began to replace the fishing boats. The first fuel dock was put into use in 1961.
The Skluzacek’s purchased the adjoining property in 1963 and began expanding once again. After six years of dredging, the south harbor was finally complete. The beginning years of the marina experienced record floods and high water. As the marina expanded into a successful business, the Skluzacek’s moved off property and the original home was renovated into a combined office and store.
In 1983, Windmill Marina was sold to the newly established Windmill Marina Association, Inc. The owner’s association quickly undertook improvements to the appearance and operation of the marina. Initial projects included upgraded electrical service to the entire marina, blacktopped traffic areas, and dock replacements.
Since that time, the marina added a service department and shop building, three sets of member shower houses, patios on every dock, and raised the office and store out of the flood plain.
In 1996, Windmill Marina purchased an additional 3.3 acres of property, allowing space for a Store N Launch lot that gave boaters the opportunity for land storage on the trailer. The boat launch was renovated the same year and is still regarded as one of the best launches on the St. Croix!
Windmill’s public launch and fuel dock have become a main attraction for weekend boaters and fishermen alike. Weekend ride service, launch assistance and traffic direction make for a pleasant boating experience for all, even on the busiest days.
In 2005, Windmill Marina Association was nominated and awarded NCMA Marina of the Year. Qualifications for the award include: membership in good standing of NCMA; exemplary facility, boat slips and grounds; outstanding customer service; above-board business ethics; programs that encourage safe boating and environmental protection; and proactive efforts regarding growth and success of the marine industry.
In 2006 Windmill Marina celebrated its 50th Anniversary.
Numerous upgrades to the marina grounds, slips and docks and ramp have been implemented since then. In 2023, the gas dock was completely rebuilt and increased to 155’. Nighttime lighting was installed for increased safety on the river and launch ramp.
As a prominent landmark in the historic town of Afton, Windmill Marina Association acknowledges the hard work and commitment from its founders and dedicated staff throughout the years. Honoring our history while continuously making marina improvements allows Windmill to provide a friendly, small-town boating experience with the most up-to-date amenities and services.