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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