Northeast Lower Peninsula

A Prolific Voice of American Literature Jim Harrison (1937–2016) remains one of the most celebrated figures in American literature, weaving poetic lyricism with gritty, earthbound storytelling. Born in Grayling, Michigan, and passing in Patagonia, Arizona, Harrison’s work encapsulates the human struggle between nature and modernity. Renowned for his novellas, novels, essays, poetry, and screenplays, Harrison’s prolific output—spanning more than 30 books—cements his place alongside literary greats like Ernest Hemingway and William Faulkner. Early Life and Influences Jim Harrison’s formative years in rural Michigan laid the foundation for his deep connection to the natural world. Born to avid readers, his upbringing… Read More »

On November 1, 1973, Michigan celebrated a significant milestone in its transportation history with the completion of Interstate 75 (I-75). Stretching 395 miles from the Ohio border near Toledo to Sault Ste. Marie, I-75 stands as the longest expressway in Michigan and one of the most important highways in the state. This vital corridor connects the southern and northern regions of Michigan, making road trips and travel across the state faster and more convenient. The Journey to Completion The journey to completing I-75 began in 1957, when construction crews broke ground on this ambitious project. By 1959, signs marking the… Read More »

A Historic Gem Serving the Community Nestled along the serene shores of Mullett Lake, the Topinabee Public Library has been at the heart of its community for generations. Located at 1576 North Straits Highway, this charming library not only serves the residents of Mullett Township and part of Burt Township, but it also provides a unique blend of history and community spirit from a building that once welcomed trains, not books. A Look Back in Time Topinabee’s history dates back to 1881 when the Michigan Central Railroad had plans to turn this picturesque spot into a resort destination. H.H. Pike,… Read More »

An Iconic Engineering Marvel On November 1, 1957, the Mackinac Bridge officially opened to traffic, marking a monumental achievement in engineering despite the many challenges posed by the turbulent Straits of Mackinac. Spanning an impressive 26,372 feet, this iconic bridge connects Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas and stands as a testament to human ingenuity and determination. The Specs Its total length is 5 miles, or 26,372 feet. The main towers rise 552 feet above the water. The roadway sits 199 feet above the water at midspan. There are 42,000 miles of wire in the main cables. The cables weigh 11,840… Read More »

Michigan’s Northern Lower Peninsula is steeped in ghostly tales, from haunted lighthouses and inns to eerie forests and islands. These historic locations hide chilling stories of tragic deaths, paranormal encounters, and spirits that refuse to rest. Northeast Lower Peninsula Old Presque Isle Lighthouse After George Parris died, his widow saw an impossible light glowing from the disconnected lantern room. Many believe it’s George’s way of keeping the lighthouse’s spirit alive. Anchor Inn (Houghton Lake) Paranormal investigators have reported shadowy figures, moving objects, and even a vortex at the front of this 100-year-old building. Pere Cheney (Roscommon) This ghost town is… Read More »

A Gem in Michigan’s Wilderness Rifle River State Recreation Area, located in Ogemaw County, Michigan, is a paradise for nature lovers. Nestled in the Au Sable State Forest, the park covers 4,449 acres of stunning wilderness, with endless opportunities for outdoor fun. Whether you’re into hiking, paddling, fishing, swimming, or biking, this park has it all. The area boasts 10 no-wake lakes and ponds, including scenic Grousehaven and Devoe Lakes, plus the picturesque Rifle River. If you want a spectacular view of the park, head to the observation tower along Ridge Road. You’ll also find a cool swinging bridge that… Read More »

Nestled in the heart of Crawford County, lies the eerie remnants of Pere Cheney. Pere Cheney was once a thriving lumber town that is now shrouded in ghostly tales and mysterious legends. Founded in 1874 by George Cheney, the village quickly grew into a bustling community. A land grant from the Michigan Central Railroad Company established a stop along the railroad. By the 1870s, Pere Cheney boasted a population of approximately 1,500 residents. There was a general store, sawmills, a hotel, and a post office. However, by 1917, this vibrant settlement had dwindled to a ghost town. The land was… Read More »

A Towering Tribute in Oscoda, Michigan In the dense heart of Michigan’s verdant forests, where whispers of the past echo among the towering pines, stands a monument that tells a tale not just of wood and timber but of the men who conquered these wildernesses. As you gaze upon the majestic Lumberman’s Monument in Oscoda, it is not merely the statue that captivates you, but the stories it holds. Imagine a time when the air was thick with the scent of fresh-cut timber and the hum of sawmills echoed through the valleys. Ah, but let us delve deeper into this… Read More »

William J. Terney was a prominent figure in Michigan’s lumber industry during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As a lumber baron, he played a significant role in the exploitation and development of Michigan’s vast forests. Lumber barons like William J. Terney were instrumental in the state’s economic growth, and their activities shaped the landscape and communities of Michigan during that era. The historical marker states that the house was built in the late 1880 and that information would have been provided by the organization filling out the request for the historical marker. Other research has suggested that the… Read More »

Otsego County is located in the northern part of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. It has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. Before European settlers arrived, the area that is now Otsego County was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Ottawa and Chippewa. These Indigenous people relied on the region’s abundant natural resources for their livelihood. Okkuddo County The original name of Otsego County was Okkuddo County, which meant sickly. However, the name was changed to Otsego on March 8, 1843, which means “clear water” or “meeting place”. The county was organized on March 12, 1875,… Read More »

On October 15, 1908, a series of fires swept through the pine forests of Presque Isle County, Michigan. The fires were fueled by strong winds and dry conditions, and quickly spread to the village of Metz. The fire continued to spread, threatening the county seat at Rogers City, and burning to the outskirts of the City of Alpena. The fire even jumped across Grand Lake before finally burning itself out at the Lake Huron shore. The extent of the losses at Metz led to the fire being referred to as “The Metz Fire,” but it devastated an area well beyond the… Read More »

Embark on a captivating journey with Northern Michigan History as we embark on our 5-part series, delving into the mysterious world of the most haunted locations in Northern Michigan. Our second installment takes us to the Northeast Lower Peninsula, where you’ll encounter a haunted lighthouse, a ghost town frozen in time, and an entire island that harbors its own spectral inhabitants. Presque Isle Old Presque Isle Lighthouse on Lake Huron: The lighthouse was originally torn down and replaced with a home in 1939 by new owner Francis B Stebbins. In the 50s, he decided to refurbish the tower and operate… Read More »