Mackinaw Ilsand, Michigan

Mackinac Island is located between the lower and upper peninsulas of Michigan. The Native American Indians inhabited the island approximately 700 years before the Europeans came in the 17^th century. The first European was possibly Jean Nicolet in 1634. In 1670 a Jesuit priest Claude Doblon founded a mission on the island which was moved by Jacques Marquette to St Ignace in 1671. In 1780 Fort Mackinac was built by the British to protect the settlement from the French-Canadians. The entire Straits area was bought by the United States in 1783 by the Treaty of Paris. The British did not leave the Great Lakes area until 1794 when the United States established sovereignty over the Northwest. During the War of 1812 the British captured the fort before the Americans knew that a war was declared. A second battle was waged in 1814 but the Americans failed to gain control of the fort. In 1815 the United States regained the island and the surrounding area until 1895. At that time it was given to the State of Michigan and became its first state park.

The island covers only 3.8 square miles. It has been a tourist attraction and summer home dating but to the late 1800’s. The island has a ban against motorized vehicles except for a fservice vehicles. It can be reached by ferry boat and small aircraft. In the winter snowmobiles are used on the island and also to go from the mainland to the island. Traveling around the island is done by bicycle (can be rented) foot, horseback or a horse drawn carriage ride. A thirteen mile road goes around the island and follows the coast line and only state highway (M-185) without motorized vehicles. Camping is not allowed, but there are numerous hotels and bed and breakfasts.

The Grand Hotel was made in a Victorian style in 1887. Its 100 foot porch is a must see for tourists. You can stay in the hotel as well as have lunch or dinner. The Governor’s Summer home is also located on the island. It was built in 1902 and overlooks the harbor. The Round Island Lighthouse was built in 1894, automated in 1924 and restored in the 1970’s. There are many more historic and wonderful sites to see on the island.

If you are in that portion of the state, take time to see this beautiful area.

Mackinaw Ilsand, Michigan

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