 The Boathouse, Main Street in Whitehall, Ohio.
"Man I am a pop singer, I don't know how to sing country music." This is what Pat Zill said to the record promoter who took him to Nashville in the early sixties. Producer Owen Bradley handled Pat's first recording, "Pick Me Up on Your Way Down." A million copies later, Pat Zill was a country singing sensation. That first single was followed up with two more crossover country hits, "Keys in the Mailbox" and "Heartaches by the Numbers." Pat toured all over the country and Canada, finally settling down back in Columbus, Ohio. In Columbus, Pat's nightclub "The Boathouse" was the most popular spot on the famous Columbus, Ohio Eastside strip. Although known for his country hits, Pat stocked the jukebox with his favorite Frank Sinatra records. When on stage Pat feels right at home, singing his own hits, Sinatra tunes and other pop favorites. The Boathouse never had its own kitchen, but for a while it did serve pizza. In 1964, John and Sandra Santurello started the Marina Pizza in the back building adjoining the Boathouse. John graduated from Bexley High School and they were both working at Rockwell International. A serving window was cut into the wall and the Boathouse waitresses took orders for pizza. After a few years, Marina Pizza grew so popular it moved to a larger location across the street at 3864 E. Main. The business remained there and they sold it in 1994. Started in 1958 the Boathouse lasted until the mid 80's. The building has had several tenants since then and as of this writing is up for sale. Pat, known as the "Singing Bartender," still croons at local and statewide events and has several recently released CD's. He even sang at a huge Las Vegas gig last year, his daughters wedding. Written by Philip Vaughn with thanks to Tom Santurello. |
 Pat Zill in front of the Boathouse, 1959. |
 Newspaper Advertisement from the Columbus Star about 1960 |
Newspaper Advertisement from the Columbus Star about 1965
musical selection - pick me up on your way down