Mackinac County, Michigan

American Fur Company Store Ancient Anishinabe Path / Gete Anishinaabek Miikaan Antique Railroad Bell Arch Rock Brevort British Landing Civilian Conservation Corps Commercial Fishing David B. Steinman Devil's Kitchen Diving into History Epoufette Father Marquette Park Kiosk Fort de Buade Fort Holmes France at Mackinac Grand Hotel Grave of Father Marquette Greany Grove Great Lakes Shipwrecks and Michigan's Underwater Preserves Gros Cap and St. Helena Island Heritage of Fishermen in this Area Historic Fort Mackinac Huron Indians at St. Ignace Island House Knights of Columbus Plaque Lake Michigan Lawrence A. Young Cottage Limestone Breccia Mackinac Bridge, Michigan Mackinac Conference Mackinac County Soldiers & Sailors War Memorial Mackinac Straits Mackinaw Boat Mackinaw Boat Michigan State Ferry Michilimackinac Cove Mission Church Mooring Facilities Mooring Facilities Native American Land Losses Nicolet Watch Tower Old Mill Slip Ottawa Indian Village People and the Great Lakes Post Cemetery Prentiss M. Brown, Michigan Lawyer, Mackinac Visionary Round Island Lighthouse Sainte Anne Church Scout Barracks / Parade Ground Skull Cave Somewhere in Time Gazebo South Tower Fog Bell St. Ignace St. Ignace Mission State Ferries, 1923-1957 State Ferry Service Structures of Local Native Americans in the 1600's Sugar Loaf The Chief Dock The Chief Dock Kiosk The Huron Longhouse The Ice Bridge The Mackinac Bridge The Northernmost Point of Lake Michigan Two Cultures Meet Voyage of Exploration Watery Graveyard What's in the Water? What's in the Water? William H. Barnum "Cass Cliff"
Mackinac County, located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The region was traditionally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Ojibwa, Odawa, and Potawatomi. These tribes relied on the area's abundant natural resources, particularly the Great Lakes, for fishing and trade.

In the 17th century, French explorers arrived, establishing a fur trade network in the region. The most notable among them was Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet, who explored the Great Lakes and discovered the Mississippi River. The French built Fort Michilimackinac in 1715, which became a major trading post and played a crucial role in the fur trade economy.

During the American Revolutionary War, the British gained control of the fort, and it remained under British rule until 1796 when it was finally turned over to the United States. Mackinac County became a part of Michigan Territory in 1818 and rapidly grew in population due to the area's economic opportunities and strategic location.

In the mid-19th century, the construction of the Mackinac Bridge in 1957 connected Mackinac County to Michigan's Lower Peninsula, leading to increased tourism and economic growth. Today, Mackinac County remains a popular destination for its rich historical sites, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities, attracting visitors from around the world. The county continues to preserve its cultural heritage while embracing modern development.
Brief timeline of the history of Mackinac County, Michigan:

  • Pre-17th century: The area now known as Mackinac County is inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi.
  • 17th century: French explorers, such as Etienne BrulĂ© and Samuel de Champlain, establish contact and trade with the Native American tribes in the region.
  • 1670: French fur traders build a trading post on Mackinac Island, which becomes an important center for the fur trade.
  • 1761: Fort Mackinac is established by the British during the French and Indian War.
  • 1774: The British establish Michilimackinac County, which includes the area that will become Mackinac County.
  • 1783: The Treaty of Paris is signed, ending the American Revolutionary War and transferring the area to the United States.
  • 1818: Mackinac County is officially established by the Michigan Territorial Government.
  • 1834: The County seat is relocated from Mackinac Island to the mainland.
  • 1837: Michigan achieves statehood, and Mackinac County remains a part of the state.
  • 1875: The Mackinac Bridge is completed, connecting the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of Michigan.
  • 1895: The first automobile is seen in Mackinac County, marking the beginning of a new era of transportation.
  • 20th century: Mackinac County becomes a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty and historic sites.
  • 2010s: Mackinac County continues to thrive as a tourist destination, offering a variety of outdoor activities and attractions.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Mackinac County, Michigan.