Hugh J. Gray may not be a household name, but his influence on Michigan’s tourism industry is profound and far-reaching. He saw the potential threat from Colorado’s burgeoning tourist industry. Colorado aimed to attract visitors from cities like Chicago and St. Louis, Gray made it his mission to ensure that Michigan didn’t lose out.
In 1917, Gray, along with 75 other visionaries, gathered in West Michigan to form the Michigan Tourist and Resort Association (MTRA). Their goal was clear and focused. They wanted to promote the unique beauty and attractions of Michigan. To provide travelers with comprehensive information about the state’s hotspots. This would in turn stimulate the local economy.
Drawing on his 25 years of experience in the railroad industry, Gray took on the roles of secretary and manager of the MTRA. He was tireless in his efforts, traveling 8,000 miles by car to raise $4,000 for advertising campaigns. These efforts quickly paid off. By the early 1920s, the MTRA was producing the annual “West Michigan Vacation Directory”. The directory featured detailed maps by 1927.
Tourism beyond West Michigan
Gray’s vision extended beyond West Michigan. He worked tirelessly to promote tourism in other regions, including the Upper Peninsula, Eastern Michigan, and Southeastern Michigan. His efforts culminated in 1929 when he successfully secured the first state funding for tourism advertising. At that time a substantial amount, $100,000 annually for two years.
By 1934, Gray’s success in promoting Michigan’s tourism led to the creation of the Michigan Tourist and Resort Commission by the state legislature. Gray appointed as its leader.
Gray’s contributions to Michigan tourism didn’t stop there. He recognized the need for a skilled workforce to support the growing industry. He developed hotel management courses at Michigan State College (now Michigan State University). His initiatives helped tourism become the state’s second-largest industry by 1937, generating an impressive $315 million.
Gray’s Cairn
In recognition of Gray’s significant contributions, Michigan erected a monument in his honor in 1938. This monument is constructed of 83 stones. Each stone was collected from each county in the state. The cairn stands 12 feet wide and 16 feet high. It was installed near Kewadin, in Antrim County, along the old US-31. Wexford County’s contribution was unique. They provided a two-foot-square piece of rubber, representing Cadillac’s prominent rubber industry at the time, with the county’s name engraved on a steel plate.
The monument includes a bronze plaque bearing Gray’s likeness and the inscription “Hugh J. Gray – Dean of Michigan’s Tourist Activity.” Inside the monument is a sealed crypt containing resort booklets, brochures, and newspaper clippings from across Michigan. All symbolizing Gray’s lasting legacy in the state’s tourism sector.
Although the monument was a popular roadside attraction in its early years, its visibility and prominence declined after 1955. US-31 was rerouted which led to a decrease in traffic near the site. The old route was renamed Cairn Highway in honor of the monument. It continues to remain a testament to Gray’s dedication. For those traveling near the Kewadin and Torch Lake area watch for this hidden gem.
The Hugh J. Gray Cairn was officially dedicated on June 28, 1938. It serves as a lasting tribute to the man whose efforts were instrumental in making Michigan a premier tourist destination.
West Michigan Tourist Association offers a birds eye view of the cairn.