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The Haunting of Mackinac Island.
An Odawa hamlet was on the island before European explorers started visiting the area in the 17th century. The island played a crucial role in the Great Lakes fur trade, which helped the British build Fort Mackinac. During the War of 1812, it saw action in two separate conflicts. Fur was no longer the primary industry on the island by the middle of the 1800s; commercial fishing was the main activity. Following the federal government’s departure from the island in 1895, Mackinac became the first state park in Michigan. The island imposed restrictions on motorized vehicles during the end of the 1800s, and those restrictions still stand today.
Mackinac Island has been the site of numerous Native American deaths, as evidenced by the remains found on the island’s shores. The island is primarily deserted during the winter, with only a few intrepid souls braving the cold weather. However, the island comes alive during the summer with tourists, who flock to experience its unique charm and beauty.
One afternoon, while traveling by horse and buggy to our intended destination, we encountered another horse and buggy passing in the opposite direction. Its apparent destination was a funeral parlor. This was an unexpected and sad occurrence at the commencement of our vacation, which was taking place amidst the winter season.
