Initially, Prairie Harbor was the dream retreat of the Walter H. Mayer family. The Mayer mansion was built in 1937. Joe Louis trained for several of his championship fights there, and rumor has it Al Capone had a hideout somewhere nearby. Eventually, though, the original building fell into disrepair. During its razing, workers discovered a cornerstone with a simple inscription:

"AS OUR DREAMS ARE, SUCH ARE WE"

Much to the delight of the developers, the engraved stone was actually a time capsule! In addition to family snapshots and other mementos, it contained a published travelogue of Mayer’s global cruise, a 1937 travel diary from Egypt, and a son's letter from camp. Half of the contents of the time capsule are currently on display in Prairie Harbor's clubhouse. The other half (along with some additions from the original developer) were put back in the corner stone and placed in the wall of the new clubhouse. The new time capsule is located between the front entrance door and the entrance to the men's shower facility.

Prairie Harbor Yacht Club has taken steps to ensure the continued preservation of its unique waterfront property. As a result, owners will be able to enjoy this boating haven for generations to come.