History on Mackinac Island MI - Do - Mackinac Island Tourism

HISTORY

Time seems to stand still on Mackinac Island not only because there are no cars, but also because there are two historic military forts and a handful of the oldest buildings in Michigan. Just by being here you’ll feel like you’re back in the past! Mackinac Island is home to many beautiful examples of Victorian architecture among the cottages and B&Bs that, in many cases, are well over 100 years old. The Island’s museums and reenactments by costumed interpreters also offer glimpses into the 19th-century lives of both soldiers and civilians.

VIEW BY ACTIVITY TYPE

Benjamin Blacksmith Shop

Originally built in the 1880s, Robert Benjamin and later his son, Herbert, ran a blacksmith shop into the 1960s. The contents of the shop were moved to the reconstructed building…

VIEW MORE

Biddle House

Biddle House features the Mackinac Island Native American Museum. A Time of Change. As an Anishnaabek woman, Agatha Biddle and other indigenous people witnessed their culture subjected to immense changes…

VIEW MORE

British Landing

During the night of July 16-17, 1812, a small force of British regulars and several hundred voyageurs and Indian allies landed and occupied a height that overlooked Fort Mackinac and…

VIEW MORE

Cemeteries

Our cemeteries are quiet and reverent places. While you can walk them respectfully or view from a distance. These final resting places of our Island’s historic figures, are for the…

VIEW MORE

Fort Holmes

After the British and their allies captured Fort Mackinac during the War of 1812, they quickly built a small outpost and called it Fort George. When the Americans regained the…

VIEW MORE

Fort Mackinac

Founded during the American Revolution, the British captured the Fort in the very first engagement on American soil in the War of 1812. Inside, 14 original buildings, cannon salutes, bugle…

VIEW MORE

Fort Mackinac Post Cemetery

The Post Cemetery is the final resting place for Fort Mackinac soldiers, their families and local officials. Although the origin of the Cemetery is lost in history, local lore suggests…

VIEW MORE

Horse in History Museum

Mackinac Horsemen’s Association is excited to showcase this compilation of photographs at the entrance of the Mackinac Community Equestrian Center (MCEC) showing Mackinac Island’s unique horse culture. From photos selected…

VIEW MORE

McGulpin House

One of the island’s oldest structures, McGulpin House dates to 1790. Originally located on the east end of town, the building was moved to this location during restoration in 1982.…

VIEW MORE

Mission House

The Mission House is a historic structure located adjacent to Mission Point Resort. Built in 1825, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The interior is not open to…

VIEW MORE

Richard & Jane Manoogian Art Museum

Nowhere else does such a rare and exceptional collection of Mackinac-related art and photography come together to tell Mackinac’s story. In complement to the natural beauty of Mackinac Island, The…

VIEW MORE

Stuart House Museum

Stuart House Museum illuminates the Island’s history and is where John Jacob Astor made his living as a fur trader during the 1800s.

VIEW MORE

Surrey Hills Carriage Museum

An antique carriage museum that features a working blacksmith shop, Surrey Hills lets you explore and learn about carriages. Three shops offer food, gifts, and souvenirs. There is a picnic…

VIEW MORE

SHARE YOUR ADVENTURE

Get inspired! #MyMackinac​

START PLANNING

Click here to download our visitors guide and get the inside scoop on Mackinac Island

Shopping Cart
Scroll to Top