Schoolcraft County
Historical marker location:
Thompson, Michigan
( Marker is on unnamed road, 0.1 miles east of U.S. 2, on the right when traveling east.)
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Michigan is home to several famous musicians, including Madonna, Stevie Wonder, Iggy Pop, and Bob Seger. Motown Records, one of the most influential record labels in history, was also founded in Detroit in 1959.
About Schoolcraft County
Schoolcraft County Timeline
Schoolcraft County is located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and has a rich history dating back to its early settlement in the mid-19th century. The county was named after Henry Schoolcraft, an American explorer, geographer, and ethnologist who played a significant role in documenting Native American cultures in the region.
In the mid-1800s, Schoolcraft County experienced a surge in population as European settlers arrived in search of natural resources, particularly lumber. Logging camps began to emerge, and the timber industry thrived, making the county an important hub for logging operations. The county's natural beauty and abundant wildlife also attracted sportsmen and outdoor enthusiasts.
The development of railroad infrastructure in the late 1800s further fueled the growth of Schoolcraft County. With the advent of the railroad, the timber industry expanded even more rapidly, leading to the establishment of new towns and communities throughout the county. As the timber resources began to decline by the early 20th century, the focus shifted to other industries such as tourism and agriculture.
Today, Schoolcraft County continues to be a popular tourist destination, thanks to its picturesque landscapes, pristine lakes, and opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, hunting, hiking, and camping. The county also boasts various historical sites and landmarks, including the charming historic towns of Manistique and Germfask. Overall, the history of Schoolcraft County demonstrates the resilience of its communities and their ability to adapt and thrive in changing economic circumstances.
In the mid-1800s, Schoolcraft County experienced a surge in population as European settlers arrived in search of natural resources, particularly lumber. Logging camps began to emerge, and the timber industry thrived, making the county an important hub for logging operations. The county's natural beauty and abundant wildlife also attracted sportsmen and outdoor enthusiasts.
The development of railroad infrastructure in the late 1800s further fueled the growth of Schoolcraft County. With the advent of the railroad, the timber industry expanded even more rapidly, leading to the establishment of new towns and communities throughout the county. As the timber resources began to decline by the early 20th century, the focus shifted to other industries such as tourism and agriculture.
Today, Schoolcraft County continues to be a popular tourist destination, thanks to its picturesque landscapes, pristine lakes, and opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, hunting, hiking, and camping. The county also boasts various historical sites and landmarks, including the charming historic towns of Manistique and Germfask. Overall, the history of Schoolcraft County demonstrates the resilience of its communities and their ability to adapt and thrive in changing economic circumstances.
Schoolcraft County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Schoolcraft County, Michigan.
- 1837: Schoolcraft County is established as a county in the state of Michigan.
- 1843: The first white settlers arrive in the area, establishing small communities.
- 1857: The county seat is officially established in Manistique.
- 1867: The first courthouse is built in Manistique.
- 1880s: The logging industry booms in Schoolcraft County, attracting many settlers.
- 1910: The pulp and paper industry begins to replace logging as the county's main industry.
- 1920: The Hiawatha National Forest is established and covers a significant portion of Schoolcraft County.
- 1930s: The Great Depression hits the county hard, causing economic hardship for many residents.
- 1940s-1950s: Tourism becomes increasingly important to the county's economy.
- 1980s: The closure of several paper mills in the area leads to a decline in the local economy.
- 1990s: Efforts are made to diversify the county's economy and promote tourism.
- 2000s: Schoolcraft County continues to rely on tourism, outdoor recreation, and small-scale industries for economic stability.