Native Americans roamed the beautiful lands of northern Michigan for many years; leaving a legacy of mature forests; clear waters; and plentiful game. By 1871; waves of immigrants were arriving from Europe; as well as Union soldiers after the Civil War. These pioneers brought with them the tools; know-how; and determination to transform the wild land into an economy based on the timber; railroads; and farming. Schools; churches; businesses; and tourism blossomed. The countys 156 lakes and 46 trout streams offered pristine settings for swimming; boating; hunting; and fishing. Resorts; sporting clubs; and cottage colonies sprang up to meet the needs of seasonal visitors. Early fishing guide and hotelier Andrew J. Bradford; financiers Curtis W. MacPhail and Robert J. Smith; philanthropist Martin Johnson; and others nurtured the growth of the communities. The Civilian Conservation Corps replanted the forests and built roads; the African American resort of Idlewild showcased black entertainers; and Raymond W. Overholzer built Shrine of the Pines; all promoting the countys development.
#1645795 in eBooks 2008-06-02 2008-06-02File Name: B0093DKYJ2
Review
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. I was disappointedBy kbylsmaI was very disappointed that my Great Grandfathers (George E. Wood) mansion on 2801 S. Prairie Avenue was not mentioned. The only reason I bought the book was because I thought his mansion would be in it since it is on Prairie Avenue. Today it is a historical landmark. It is a finely-preserved Queen Anne-style mansion built in 1885. The book has other mansions that were not on Prairie Ave.. the title is misleading.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy cdnIts exactly what is hoped it would be.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Great look at YesteryearBy Kristen L. HenschenAfter visiting Prairie Avenue it is interesting to see photos of some of the houses that are no longer on this block...very interesting book with great images and info.
