History of Mackinac Island in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 27, 2025

Mackinac Island, a 4.35 square mile island in Lake Huron, Michigan, holds significant historical and cultural importance. Known as "Michilimackinac" or "Mitchimakinak" by the Odawa and Ojibwe peoples, meaning "Great Turtle", it was a long-time Odawa settlement before European colonization. The island became a strategic hub for the Great Lakes fur trade. Fort Mackinac, built by the British during the American Revolutionary War, played a crucial role in the War of 1812, hosting two battles before the island became part of US territory after the northern border was settled. Today, it is a popular resort area known for its historical significance and natural beauty.

1929: Governor's Honor Guard Program Began

In 1929, the Mackinac Island Governor's Honor Guard program began when the State Park Commission invited eight Eagle Scouts, including Gerald Ford, to the island.

1947: This Time for Keeps Film

In 1947, the film *This Time for Keeps*, starring Esther Williams, featured scenes filmed on Mackinac Island.

1949: Annual Lilac Festival Began

Since 1949, the island's residents have been celebrating the island's native lilacs with an annual spring 10-day festival.

1952: John Reed Swanton Book

In 1952, John Reed Swanton recorded the Menominee band named "Misi'nimäk Kimiko Wini'niwuk, 'Michilimackinac People,' near the old fort at Mackinac, Mich." in his book *The Indian Tribes of North America*

1957: Mackinac Island Town Crier Ownership

In 1957, Wesley H. Maurer Sr. and his family began owning and operating the Mackinac Island Town Crier newspaper.

October 1960: National Historic Landmark Designation

In October 1960, all of Mackinac Island was listed as a National Historic Landmark.

1974: Girl Scouts Included in Honor Guard

In 1974, Governor William Milliken expanded the Mackinac Island Governor's Honor Guard program to include Girl Scouts.

1980: Somewhere in Time Filmed

In 1980, the majority of the film *Somewhere in Time* was filmed at Mission Point on Mackinac Island.

July 20, 2019: 95th Port Huron to Mackinac Boat Race

On July 20, 2019, the Port Huron to Mackinac Boat Race was the 95th such annual event, with 202 sailboats registered.

2019: Vice President Pence Motorcade Controversy

In 2019, controversy ensued when Vice President Mike Pence was permitted to bring a motorcade to Mackinac Island, despite the island's restrictions on motor vehicles.