Theodore Roosevelt arrives in Marquette

Defending His Honor

History has its share of courtroom drama, but few moments are quite as delightfully petty—and noble—as when former President Theodore Roosevelt rolled into Marquette, Michigan, on May 13, 1913, to defend his honor. The charge? He was a drunk and a liar—at least, that’s what George Newett, editor of the Iron Ore newspaper in Ishpeming, claimed. Roosevelt, never one to take things lying down (unless he was posing for a hunt), took legal action.

The scene was set in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where Roosevelt traveled specifically to testify in a libel suit he’d filed against Newett. The trial drew national attention, because, well, when a former president takes the stand to defend his personal character, people pay attention. Roosevelt was calm, articulate, and armed with witness after witness who vouched for his sobriety and integrity.

“The Price of a Good Newspaper”

Two weeks after his arrival, on May 27, Roosevelt gave his testimony, and it was so convincing that Newett quickly admitted the allegations were false. Roosevelt won the case, but here’s where he really cemented his legendary status: instead of seeking a large settlement, he accepted a mere six cents in damages, stating that it was “the price of a good newspaper.”

While in Marquette, Roosevelt also attended mass at the Fort Street Presbyterian Church. The pew where he sat is now marked with a commemorative plaque—a subtle reminder that even former presidents enjoy a quiet moment of reflection amid legal drama.

About Roosevelt

For some extra context, Theodore Roosevelt (October 27, 1858 – January 6, 1919) had already lived a full political life by 1913. He’d served as the 26th President of the United States from 1901 to 1909, rising to the office after the assassination of William McKinley. Known for his energy, reform-minded policies, and larger-than-life personality, Roosevelt helped usher in the Progressive Era, taking on monopolies, supporting labor rights, and setting aside vast lands for national parks.

Before his presidency, Roosevelt made his mark in New York politics, serving as governor and earlier as New York City Police Commissioner. He was also Assistant Secretary of the Navy and famously led the Rough Riders in the Spanish-American War. After leaving the White House, Roosevelt continued to stir things up—his Bull Moose Party run in 1912 split the Republican vote and helped Democrat Woodrow Wilson win the presidency.

So, by the time he showed up in Marquette in 1913, Roosevelt was not just a political figure—he was a force of nature. That he would go to court over a matter of principle, win with dignity, and accept a symbolic amount in damages tells you everything you need to know about the man. Tough, principled, and just dramatic enough to make history interesting.

Learn more about the rich history of the Central Upper Peninsula.

Marisa Fancy along with her husband and four children dreamt of moving “Up North”. They had vacationed for years in northern Michigan and in 1995 they finally made the move.

The family was always out exploring, but with 4 kids there was some limitations on what they could do. Marisa discovered the amazing network of trails in Northern Michigan after Steve died and she would walk for miles. The trails provided her with peace, comfort and solitude at a difficult time in her life. Later, after meeting Guy who would become her second husband, she learned to golf and found another passion she could enjoy in beautiful Northern Michigan.

Marisa has been the family historian, writer, and poet for as long as she can remember. She has always loved to write and has now found a creative outlet for it other than family. You can read her articles in Adventures in Northern Michigan, Northern Michigan History and Golf Up North.