Today we went to Mackinac Island. It is one of the must sees of Michigan. It does not allow carrs. Back in the 1898, the carriage men were afraid that the "horseless carriages" would take away their trade. They passed a law that still stands today. You can use bicycles or walk. It makes for a very unique experience of no exhaust fumes and quaint village life. We rented a horse drawn carriage to take us around the entire island. Just walking along front street with all the t shirt shops doesn't give you the island way of life. It is the only state highway in Michigan that doesn't allow cars.
View of island from ferry
Front street with our carriage
All of those buildings are original, 1800's era
Hotel built in 1887 to accommodate so many visitors after the Civil War
Stopped at the Butterfly house. I took so many pictures, they were so beautiful.
We went thru the State park. Only remaining arch. There was another one, but as workers were trying to reinforce it, they accidentally blew it up. Sounds like a little miscommunication!
Fort Mackinac was built in 1970 by the British. Americans took it over in 1796. In the War of 1812, the British captured it again. In fact, the first battle of 1812 was here at the Fort. It was a working fort until 1895.
Gun Mounts
Bath House built in 1885. before that, it was considered unhealthy to take a bath. After it was built, the commandeer made sure everyone bathed once a week. There are 6 individual rooms just wide enough for a bench and a claw foot bathtub.
View of town from Fort
Shows all the bikes for rent or you can bring one along on the ferry.
Another enjoyable day
No comments:
Post a Comment