Mackinac Island

Images of America: Michigan

by Tom North

From historical richness to unparalleled natural beauty, Michigan's Mackinac Island is the crown jewel of the Great Lakes, unique in America. Native American visitors preceded French explorers and missionaries of the 17th century. Forts were established and battles fought between American and British soldiers. Commerce, including fur trading and fishing, later surpassed military importance, in turn yielding to the tourism industry that has dominated the past 150 years. Accessible by water, "ice bridge," or air, Mackinac Island encompasses a state park, harbor, city, and Victorian hotels and homes. A permanent automobile ban helps preserve the island's historic character, leaving land movement to foot, bicycle, and horse-drawn carriage. This book uses historical photographs to depict Mackinac Island heritage and culture. Rare images capture bygone days and lifestyles on this island where 19th century charm surprises and intrigues even today.

Genres: History, Nonfiction

128 pages, Paperback

First published May 16, 2011

Reviews

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

Got this while staying on Mackinac Island, so the items referenced were fresh in my mind when I read the book. Picture heavy book, and it was neat to see vintage photos of some of the landmarks still there. A map placing the buildings or areas in relation to each other would have been nice - a lot of the description were "on the west side of town" or other relation to the cardinal directions, so a map would have helped. Quick read, and informative.

[Catherine Yezak · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting read of the history of Mackinac Island. Including its start as the 2nd National Park, to having 2 sitting presidents visit. It is all pictures with some description of them.

I would have preferred more stories/historical information and used the pictures as illustrate.

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have lived in Michigan all my life and never been to Mackinac Island. This book is filled with pictures and history. Hope to go there soon.

[Brian Kovesci · Rating 2 out of 5]

Some of the books in this series are great. This one was meh. Some history, but not enough for my blood.

[Stacey B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not a popular book, but none the less, I wanted to see what Mackinac Island looked like before it became a souvenir honky tonk town as it is today. These images show what I had expected. Mackinac Island is only eight miles long and you must get there by boat. I have been there numerous times, but not in the town as its too crowed.If you walk outside of the town center you will see the most gorgeous scenery and grounds. This is the island that the movie "Somewhere in Time" was shot starring Christopher Reeve, Jane Seymour, Christopher Plummer, Teresa Wright.
They still make the best fudge, bare none.