Historical Markers in
Charlevoix County, Michigan

B-52 Crash Fallen Crew Members Memorial Battle of "Pine River" Benjamin S. Gill, EMC USN Big Rock Point / Nuclear Power Plant Big Rock Point Nuclear Power Plant Flag Pole Charlevoix's World's Largest Cherry Pie Horton Bay Horton Bay General Store Norwood Township Hall Odmark Band Pavilion Pinehurst and Shangri-La Still On Patrol The First Congregational Church The Harsha House Museum USS Escolar (SS 294) Memorial Wharfside Building and Park Acquisition
Michigan is the only state in the United States that consists of two peninsulas. The Upper Peninsula (UP) and Lower Peninsula (LP) are connected by the five-mile-long Mackinac Bridge, which is one of the longest suspension bridges in the world.
Michigan random facts
Charlevoix County, located in the northern part of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, has a rich and diverse history spanning back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Odawa and Ojibwe people, who lived off the land and established a thriving trading network along the Great Lakes.

European settlement in the region began in the late 18th century when French fur traders arrived in the area. They established trading posts along the shores of Lake Charlevoix and worked closely with the Native Americans. The region became an important center for the fur trade and European settlers began moving in during the early 19th century.

The county was officially established in 1869 and named after the prominent French explorer, Pierre Francois Xavier de Charlevoix. The economy of Charlevoix County flourished in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, driven by timber, limestone, and farming industries. The construction of railroads and the development of tourism, particularly around the lakeshores and nearby resorts, further boosted the economy.

Over the years, Charlevoix County has become known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. The county is home to several charming towns, including Charlevoix, East Jordan, and Boyne City, which offer a range of outdoor activities, cultural events, and a strong sense of community. Today, the county continues to thrive as a popular destination for tourists and a welcoming place to call home.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Charlevoix County, Michigan.

  • Pre-1800s: Charlevoix County was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Odawa, Ojibwe, and Potawatomi.
  • 1836: Charlevoix County was established, named after Pierre François Xavier de Charlevoix, a French explorer.
  • 1868: The city of Charlevoix was incorporated.
  • 1879: The Michigan Central Railroad reached Charlevoix, boosting the local economy.
  • 1883: The resort community of Bay View was established, attracting tourists and summer residents.
  • 1930s: Charlevoix County was severely impacted by the Great Depression, like the rest of the country.
  • 1950s: The county saw a boom in tourism, with many visitors coming for vacations and outdoor activities.
  • 1983: The Charlevoix South Pier Light Station was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 2000s: Charlevoix County continues to be a popular destination for tourism, known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.