A History of Names, Settlers, and Struggles
On this day in history, April 1, 1840, Michigan’s legislature created what was originally called Tonedagana County—later renamed Emmet County in 1843. From its deep Odawa roots to a brief period under Mormon rule, Emmet County’s past is filled with fascinating twists.
Emmet County, one of Michigan’s northernmost counties, has a history as rich as its scenic landscapes. From its early days as an Odawa stronghold to its brief time under Mormon rule, the county has seen its fair share of change, controversy, and resilience.
From Tonedagana to Emmet
On April 1, 1840, the Michigan Legislature carved out a new county from Mackinac County, naming it Tonedagana in honor of a Cross Village Odawa war chief. However, it remained unorganized and attached to Mackinac County for administration. Just three years later, in 1843, the county was renamed Emmet. The name paid tribute to Irish patriot Robert Emmet, who was executed for his rebellion against British rule.
During this time, the shoreline of Lake Michigan, from present-day Harbor Springs to Cross Village, was lined with Odawa villages. The region remained largely reserved for Native American tribes under treaty agreements until 1875.
Strang’s Kingdom and Emmet’s Reorganization
The county’s history took an unexpected turn in the late 1840s when a group of Mormons, led by James Jesse Strang, settled on nearby Beaver Island. Strang declared himself “King” and established a theocratic society, clashing with non-Mormon settlers. His influence grew when he won a seat in the Michigan State House of Representatives. In 1853, he used his political power to expand Emmet County’s borders, adding nearby islands and unorganized Charlevoix County as a township of Emmet.
However, the Mormon influence didn’t last long. In 1855, after tensions boiled over, the Michigan Legislature reorganized Emmet County. They removed the islands and placed them into a newly created Manitou County. This effectively ended Mormon control in Emmet, allowing non-Mormon settlers to return and reshape the county’s governance.
A Legacy of Change
Emmet County’s past is a fascinating mix of Native American heritage, Irish patriotism, and political maneuvering. Today, it stands as a vibrant part of Northern Michigan, but its history still echoes through its place names and the stories passed down through generations.
