Between 1860 and 1900; some say; Michigan lumber made more fortunes than California gold. Many of those fortunes were made in Manistee. Home to hardworking; self-made millionaires; Manistee also became a thriving cultural center; with elegant architecture; theatrical performances; and intellectual societies that debated the issues of the day. Steamers and schooners brought tourists across Lake Michigan to stroll the grand streets; relax on the beaches of Onekamas Portage Point Inn; or attend the latest play at the Ramsdell Theater. Manistee County also offered opportunities for Americas newest immigrants. Drawn by the promise of land and economic opportunity; the new arrivals established communities in the city and surrounding townships. For some of these settlers; such as the Finns who founded Kaleva or the small religious community of Brethren; Manistee County held the promise of utopia. When the lumber era ended; Manistee County reinvented itself; replacing sawmills and lumberyards with salt wells; hydroelectric dams; and power plants. As it continued to draw tourists from across the lake and along newly built roads; Manistee County entered the modern age with a vibrant future to match its fascinating history.
#2467898 in eBooks 2006-08-28 2006-08-28File Name: B0099DTGV8
Review
4 of 4 people found the following review helpful. Pittsburghs Very Social SuburbBy John B. ArchibaldThe whole series of Arcadia books is fascinating to begin with. Where else can you find portfolios of views of places familiar to you? And this book on Sewickley. Pennsylvania is no exception. Founded originally as a haven for idustrial tycoons from nearby Pittsburgh. Sewickly has long had a reputation for higher-end socialites. whose massive homes dotted the hills above the town. As such. the book is a fascinating look at an era which was actually long-gone even in the lifetimes of many who began it. as many of the houses built by the moneyed class in the early 20th century were unwieldy and abandoned as recently as 25 years later.Though I could have wished for more views of the town itself. and less of individual residences. this book is still a worthy record of a way of life that had its day and is now mostly dissolved into our era of condos and upsizing.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Nice historic photos and narrative.By Pa TomcatAs a Sewickley native. born and bred. It interested me and I have been well pleased with the photos and the narratives. I learned a lot and enjoyed the fond memories recalled by the photos.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Great source for history and geneological researchBy Gerald T. CecilThis book was a great source on a recent trip to Sewickley. We were doing some family research and general touring so this collection of postcards. historic photos. and narrative was quite helpful. Kudos to the local historical society for their efforts.
