October 2024 - Lost In Michigan

The Beautiful Spring at the bottom of the Stairs

Posted on October 29, 2024 by Mike Sonnenberg Posted in Artesian Springs, autumn, Nature .

Located along the River Road National Scenic Byway in the Huron National Forest, just west of Oscoda, Iargo Springs presents a stunning view of the Au Sable River. This site has served as an essential drinking water source long before European settlers arrived, with early loggers creating dams to channel water to their nearby camps. Back then, much of what is now Cooke Pond was actually dry land. Since the 1920s, visitors from Europe have been drawn to the springs for leisure activities.

In 1934, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built a trail and dams on the spring. Unfortunately, these structures were lost in 1981 due to a severe storm. A major renovation took place in 1991, which added steps, boardwalks along the springs, and rebuilt the dams. Reaching Iargo Springs requires the daunting task of descending 300 steep steps, but the effort is well worth it. The climb back up may leave your legs burning and your heart racing, but the breathtaking views from the shoreline make it all worthwhile.

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The Bohemian Stone Church

Posted on October 25, 2024 by Mike Sonnenberg Posted in Churches .

A charming old fieldstone church is located along M-32, nestled between East Jordan and US-131. Constructed in 1890 by Bohemian immigrants, it was dedicated to Saint John Nepomucene, the patron saint of Czechoslovakia. Bohemia is a significant region in Czechoslovakia, and many of the early settlers in this northern Michigan area hailed from Prague. They named their new home Praga or Praha, reflecting the dual names of the city.

After establishing their homesteads, numerous farmers received land grants from the federal government. A post office was set up in 1876, adopting the name Praha. However, the town’s population remained small, leading to the post office’s closure just a few years later.

Despite the post office shutting down and the town not evolving into a bustling community, the settlers persevered and built their church in 1890. In 1926, the church’s exterior was adorned with fieldstone, likely sourced from local farmers who gathered stones from their fields to shield the building from Michigan’s harsh weather. Today, the church remains a part of the Catholic Dioceses of Gaylord and is a stunning site for photography throughout the year.

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A Historic Landmark in Old Mission Peninsula

Posted on October 23, 2024 by Mike Sonnenberg Posted in autumn, Forgotten Places .

Located near the Bowers Harbor boat launch in Old Mission Peninsula is a charming pavilion that seems more at home in a picturesque park. This century-old structure, built in 1920, is a significant piece of Traverse City’s regional history. Originally serving as the Cherry Growers Weigh Station, it provided a convenient location for local farmers to weigh their harvested cherries, saving them the time and effort of traveling into Traverse City.

After closing in the 1960s, the pavilion underwent a transformation, becoming Lorey’s Harbor Station. This market, which operated from 1972 to 2017, offered a selection of fresh flowers, fruits, and vegetables to the public.

The story of cherry production in Traverse City dates back to 1852 when Presbyterian missionary Peter Dougherty planted numerous cherry trees in the Old Mission Peninsula. Despite initial skepticism from residents and local Native Americans, Dougherty’s experiment proved successful, inspiring others to cultivate their own orchards.

As the cherry industry thrived, Traverse City established the “Blessing of the Blossoms” ceremony in 1924 to celebrate its agricultural success. This tradition eventually evolved into the renowned National Cherry Festival, with the first Cherry Queen, Charlotte Kearns, crowned in 1926.

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Deadman’s Hill

Posted on October 19, 2024 by Mike Sonnenberg Posted in autumn, Nature .

Deadman’s Hill overlooks the Jordan River Valley and is located between Boyne Falls and Mancelona. While dead men tell no tales the sign next to the overlook tells the story of how the hill got its name and reads:

The period of early logging in the Hills of the Jordan River Valley was marred by several fatal accidents. The last known and best recalled tragedy took the life of 21 year old Stanley (Big Sam) Graczyk, a fun loving lumberjack soon to be married. He became legend on May 20, 1910 when he was killed while driving a team and big wheels loaded with logs down a steep slope near here. Anthony (Tony) Wojciechowski who was with Big Sam when he died is responsible for the accurate recounting of this legend. This high point, with its commanding view of the valley, has ever since been known as “Deadman’s Hill.”

The overlook is amazing any time of year but it is spectacular in the fall when the leaves hit their peak color. It’s impossible to capture the beauty in a photos so you need to stop by and see it for yourself.

P.S. If you are in the Mancelona area be sure to visit my friends at Rooted. They carry all of my Lost In Michigan books. The Iron Skillet restaurant next door is an excellent place to stop for a meal too.

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Belanger Mill

Posted on October 18, 2024 by Mike Sonnenberg Posted in Mills .

To the north of Suttons Bay, near the casino along M-22, you’ll find an old wooden structure beside Belanger Creek. This historic mill was constructed in 1859 by Antoine Manseau. The creek was originally named Keywatosa Creek after a Native American Chief, Keywatosa. Manseau created a dam on the creek, built a 26-by-30-foot mill, and began grinding grain using a pair of millstones imported from France. It was likely the oldest grist mill in the Grand Traverse area, serving local farmers who brought their grain to be processed. At the time, it was quite advanced, featuring 56 belts that powered multiple rollers to turn grain into flour.

In 1906, the mill was purchased by Eugene Belanger and his sons—Ignatius, Alexis, Luke, and Edwin. It continued to operate until 1934, when it closed due to a partial collapse of the concrete wall and a decline in local grain farming. Today, the old mill stands by the roadside, overlooking Belanger Creek as cars rush by on their way to the nearby casino or the many wineries scattered throughout the Leelanau Peninsula.

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The Stone Children of the Soo

Posted on October 16, 2024 by Mike Sonnenberg Posted in Uncategorized .

Next to Washington Elementary School in Sault Ste Marie, is a stone statue with two small children. Around the base are the words: Water, Air, Soil and Protect. I could not find any info about it on the internet so I am hoping someone will share the story behind this statue.

2025 Lost In Michigan wall calendars are now available on Zazzle.com HERE

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River Raisin National Battlefield Park: A Haunting History

Posted on October 14, 2024 by Mike Sonnenberg Posted in Haunted Places .

The River Raisin National Battlefield Park in Monroe, Michigan, is not only a significant historical site but also a rumored hotspot for paranormal activity. The bloody battle that took place here during the War of 1812 has left a chilling legacy that some believe continues to linger.

The Battle of Frenchtown occurred on January 20-21, 1813, when American forces were ambushed and defeated by British and Native American troops. The subsequent massacre of American prisoners of war, known as the “River Raisin Massacre,” is a dark chapter in American history.

Paranormal Activity at River Raisin

Many visitors and staff members claim to have experienced strange occurrences at the battlefield park. Some common reports include:

Ghostly apparitions: Soldiers in period uniforms have been spotted wandering the grounds.
Eerie sounds: The sounds of battle cries, gunfire, and moans have been heard, even when the park is deserted.
Cold spots: Areas of the battlefield are said to be unusually cold, as if a draft were blowing through, even on warm days.
Electronic disturbances: Cameras and recording devices have reportedly malfunctioned or captured unexplained images and sounds.

Is the River Raisin Battlefield Truly Haunted?

Whether or not you believe in ghosts, the historical significance and haunting tales surrounding the River Raisin National Battlefield Park make it a fascinating and potentially eerie destination. If you’re brave enough to explore this historic site, you might just encounter something extraordinary.

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The Legend of the Pine

Posted on October 10, 2024 by Mike Sonnenberg Posted in Cemetery, upper peninsula .

While passing through Bay Mills in the Upper Peninsula I noticed a sign on the big pine tree in the Native American cemetery. It reads:

“THE LEGEND OF THIS PINE TREE – Among the Indians who moved from Nayohmekong to what is now the Indian mission at Bay Mills was a little girl of fifteen named Eliza (Waishkey) Labranch. (B Jan 4 1847 – D Nov 16 1917) It was Eliza who selected the tree, then only a twig, and planted it at the head of her grandfather Waishkey (Lawbawclic) grave. ( B 1778 – D 1847)

He was born of the Caribou Clan and Chief of the Waishkey Band of Chippewa Indians. The tree, a White Pine, was planted about the year 1848

I never noticed the sign before, but it reminds people that that a big tree has been standing a long time and it connects generations of people.

Note: I did not go into the cemetery and took a pic from the fence along the road.

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The USS Edson

Posted on October 8, 2024 by Mike Sonnenberg Posted in Ships and Boats .

Nestled along the serene waters of the Saginaw River in Bay City, Michigan, lies a historic vessel that has witnessed countless naval battles and served with distinction for decades. The USS Edson, a destroyer built in 1956, now rests peacefully in her retirement, a testament to the courage and dedication of the sailors who served aboard her.

After a distinguished career spanning 32 years, the USS Edson was decommissioned in 1988 and donated to the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum. This non-profit organization has lovingly preserved the ship and transformed her into a floating museum, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the life of a naval sailor.

Each year, during the Halloween season, the USS Edson undergoes a dramatic transformation, becoming the chilling attraction known as the Edson Incident. Filled with spooky decorations, eerie sounds, and live actors, the Edson Incident provides a thrilling and unforgettable experience for visitors.

If you’re looking for a fascinating and historic destination in Michigan, the USS Edson is a must-see. Whether you’re interested in learning about naval history, exploring a unique museum, or seeking a frightfully good time, the USS Edson offers something for everyone.

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The Narnia Trail

Posted on October 2, 2024 by Mike Sonnenberg Posted in Nature, upper peninsula .

The Bush Bay Trail is a scenic hiking path that winds along the stunning Lake Huron shoreline. It’s commonly known as the Narnia Trail due to its enchanting natural beauty and impressive boulders lining the coast. You can find the parking area just off M-134, east of Hessel. If you’re seeking a lovely hike in the southeastern part of the Upper Peninsula, the Bush Bay Trail is an excellent choice.

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