National Register Listings in Benzie County, Michigan
The Upper Peninsula of Michigan was once a major center for copper mining. The Keweenaw Peninsula was home to the largest concentration of copper mines in the world in the mid-19th century, and copper was an important natural resource for the state's economy.
About Benzie County
Benzie County Timeline
Benzie County, Michigan, located in the northwestern part of the Lower Peninsula, has a rich history that dates back centuries. It was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Ottawa and Chippewa. The first European explorers arrived in the 17th century, with French fur traders establishing trade relations with the indigenous peoples.
The county was officially established in 1863, named after Benjamin Franklin. Early settlers began to arrive, attracted by the area's natural resources, including timber and fertile land for farming. Logging became a crucial industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, leading to the construction of railroads and sawmills that transformed the landscape.
The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s brought a boost to the county's economy, facilitating further growth and development. Tourism also played a significant role in the county's history, with visitors drawn to the area's picturesque lakes, forests, and beaches. The establishment of resorts and the creation of Crystal Lake and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore further attracted tourists to the region.
Today, Benzie County continues to thrive as a tourist destination, offering a wide range of outdoor recreational activities, such as camping, fishing, boating, and hiking. The county is also known for its vineyards and wineries, attracting visitors who enjoy wine tasting and exploring the local culinary scene. With a vibrant history and natural beauty, Benzie County remains a cherished part of Michigan's cultural and recreational landscape.
The county was officially established in 1863, named after Benjamin Franklin. Early settlers began to arrive, attracted by the area's natural resources, including timber and fertile land for farming. Logging became a crucial industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, leading to the construction of railroads and sawmills that transformed the landscape.
The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s brought a boost to the county's economy, facilitating further growth and development. Tourism also played a significant role in the county's history, with visitors drawn to the area's picturesque lakes, forests, and beaches. The establishment of resorts and the creation of Crystal Lake and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore further attracted tourists to the region.
Today, Benzie County continues to thrive as a tourist destination, offering a wide range of outdoor recreational activities, such as camping, fishing, boating, and hiking. The county is also known for its vineyards and wineries, attracting visitors who enjoy wine tasting and exploring the local culinary scene. With a vibrant history and natural beauty, Benzie County remains a cherished part of Michigan's cultural and recreational landscape.
Benzie County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Benzie County, Michigan.
- 1833 - Benzie County is founded and named after a Native American chief
- 1840s - First settlers arrive in the area
- 1858 - Benzie County is recognized as a legal entity
- 1863 - First post office is established in the county
- 1869 - First sawmill is built in Frankfort
- 1883 - First train arrives in Frankfort, boosting the local economy
- 1890 - Population of the county reaches over 7,000 people
- 1929-1939 - Great Depression affects the county, leading to economic hardships
- 1960s - Tourism begins to flourish as visitors discover the county's natural beauty
- 2001 - Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is established, becoming a major attraction
- Present - Benzie County continues to be a popular tourist destination and a thriving community