Discovering Michigan and Ohio’s Hidden Gems: Art, History, and Adventure
Exploring Michigan’s diverse attractions offers an unforgettable journey through art, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, Michigan and Ohio’s hidden gems promise an enriching experience. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the fascinating roadside attractions, historic battlefields, and engineering marvels that make Michigan and Ohio must-visit destinations.
Exploring Lake and Inland: A Creative Wonderland
As I drove down the M28 in Michigan, a curious sign beckoned me to explore Lake and Inland, a unique open-air sculpture park nestled just outside Marquette. Created by Tom Lakenen, a former construction worker turned metal artist, this quirky attraction is a testament to the power of creativity. Lakenen’s passion for welding transformed discarded metal into over 100 massive sculptures, each with its own story. The park offers a blend of humor, political satire, and environmental commentary, reflecting Lakenen’s blue-collar background and deep respect for Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Walking through the park’s winding trails, I was captivated by the raw and unfiltered nature of the sculptures. The experience was more than just an art exhibit; it was an adventure. Visitors can explore at their own pace, enjoy picnic areas, and even visit during winter when snowmobilers warm up by bonfires. Lakenen’s vision was to inspire creativity and remind people that art should be accessible to all, free from commercial constraints.
The Bay Furnace and the Legacy of Iron Manufacturing
Leaving Marquette, I was drawn to the remnants of Otona, a settlement that thrived during the American industrial expansion in the 1870s. Here, the Bay Furnace stands as a testament to the region’s iron manufacturing legacy. Ships once unloaded raw iron on a 1,200-foot dock, where it was transported to the furnace and heated to nearly 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit, creating iron bars known as pigs. Despite the settlement’s destruction by fire in 1877, the furnace remains a significant historical site, partially restored in 1992.
Visiting these sites across Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin deepened my understanding of the iron industry’s impact on American history. The region played a crucial role in the United States’ industrial growth, particularly during World War II. While the massive dock has mostly disappeared, the remaining timbers serve as a poignant reminder of this bygone era.
Crossing the Mighty Mackinac Bridge
Continuing my journey, I approached the Mackinac Bridge, a remarkable engineering feat that connects Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas. Spanning five miles across the Straits of Mackinac, this suspension bridge revolutionized travel when it was completed in 1957. Before the bridge, ferries caused long delays, but today, crossings take just a few minutes.
The Mackinac Bridge is designed to withstand powerful Great Lakes winds, swaying up to 35 feet without breaking. On a calm day, the crossing is smooth, but if the wind picks up, the bridge’s flexibility ensures safety. For those apprehensive about driving across, the Bridge Authority offers a service where an employee will drive your car, free of charge.
Reliving History at River Raisin National Battlefield Park
In Monroe, Michigan, I visited the River Raisin National Battlefield Park, a site of significant historical importance. During the War of 1812, American forces fought to retake Frenchtown from the British and their Native American allies. The Battle of the River Raisin, one of the war’s bloodiest defeats, became a rallying cry for American troops.
Though the visitor center was under renovation during my visit, the battlefield’s interpretive signs offered a glimpse into this pivotal moment in American history. The cries of “Remember the Raisin” fueled American determination to reclaim the Northwest, highlighting the battle’s lasting impact.
A Voyage Through the Great Lakes’ History
My final stop in Ohio was the National Museum of the Great Lakes in Toledo. This museum offers a comprehensive look at the history, commerce, and culture of North America’s vast inland seas. From the early settlers in 9,000 BC to the boom of cruise ships post-Civil War, the Great Lakes have shaped the region for centuries.
The museum’s exhibits detail the development of shipping and iron production, the rise of tourism, and the tragic shipwrecks that have claimed over 30,000 lives. Among these is the famous wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, immortalized in Gordon Lightfoot’s song. The cold, fresh waters of the Great Lakes preserve these shipwrecks better than ocean saltwater, yet many remain undiscovered.
Exploring the SS Colonel James M. Schoonmaker
No visit to the Great Lakes would be complete without stepping aboard a historic freighter. The SS Colonel James M. Schoonmaker, launched in 1911, was once the largest bulk freighter in the world. This 617-foot-long vessel is a marvel of engineering and luxury, with state-of-the-art features for its time.
As I toured the ship, I was struck by the elegance of its interiors. From the crew’s quarters to the captain’s luxurious office, the ship is a testament to the era’s craftsmanship. The observation room offers a 360-degree view, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenery as they sailed the Great Lakes.
Conclusion: A Journey Through Time and Creativity
Exploring Michigan and Ohio’s hidden gems has been a journey through art, history, and adventure. From Lakenen’s whimsical sculptures to the engineering marvel of the Mackinac Bridge, each stop offered a unique glimpse into the region’s rich cultural tapestry. The iron industry’s legacy, the War of 1812’s pivotal battles, and the Great Lakes maritime history contribute to Michigan and Ohio’s vibrant story.
Whether you’re planning a road trip or simply seeking inspiration, Michigan and Ohio’s diverse attractions promise a rewarding experience. As I prepare to explore South Bass Island and Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial in the next episode of Exploring the Unexpected, I’m reminded of the endless possibilities that await those who venture off the beaten path.