Mackinac Island, Michigan

49757

Photos courtesy of:
Jon Jacobson of Picture Michigan

The name of this island comes from an Indian name; the French called it Michilimackinac. It was claimed that Jean Nicolet explored the island in 1634 and visited by the Jesuits Claude Dablon in 1670 and Jacques Marquette in 1671, this however has been disputed. The first permanent settlement was made in 1780. The French control passed to the English who, contrary to the Treaty of 1773, did not give it up to the U. S. until 1795. It was then lost in the war of 1812, and was regained in 1815.

With the appointment of Adam B. Stewart, on April 14, 1819, as its first postmaster, it became the fourth post office in Michigan, preceded only by Detroit, Frenchtown (presently Monroe), and Apple Creek.

It became the county seat of Michilimackinac County in 1822. On May 12,1884 it post office was renamed Mackinac Island. The island was ceded to the State for park purposes in 1895.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

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Mackinac Island, Michigan

49757

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