Channels, Lighthouses Program

The long-anticipated restoration of the lighthouse is scheduled to begin in a few weeks. To launch this major project in  a most fitting way, the Society is presenting an illustrated program on the history of the development of the channels, piers, and lighthouses from before the time Pine River (later Charlevoix) was first settled up to the present day, hosted by your editor. 

When: Tuesday, June 3 @ 7:00 P. M.

Where:  The Depot

Soon after Pine River was settled beginning in the mid 1850s, our pioneers realized the importance of opening up both the town and the interior regions to Lake Michigan commerce. The Pine River itself was a swift, rocky, shallow stream that flowed below the bluffs overlooking the big lake and emptied about 450 feet south of the present piers. Round Lake was blocked from Pine Lake (Lake Charlevoix) by a sandy peninsula around which flowed a narrow, slightly stepped little outlet river that is today Old River below the Chicago Club. This peninsula made Pine Lake four feet higher than Lake Michigan.

Both the east and west sides of Round Lake had to be made accessible to the world. Cutting through two channels was the way to do it.    

Join us as we present the story of how this came about, beginning in 1869 when a determined group accomplished the seemingly impossible to turn Charlevoix into the most important shipping port of northwest  lower Michigan. We’ll trace the development of the channels, then the piers, and finally the history of our three lighthouses and how, all combined, they brought prosperity and renown to a small harbor town once thought to be of no major significance to the area.

And! This evening we will also introduce our new 24-pp. “Charlevoix Pier Lights,”  $10 plus tax. This booklet is the initial publication of the newly formed Charlevoix Historical Society Press. 

There is no admission charge for the program. Donations will be appreciated. Light refreshments will be served. Call 547-0373 for more information.  

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LIBRARY DUERR AWARD 

The Public Library will present its 6th annual Margaret Duerr Award to Dr. Gordon Van Wieren on Wed., June 4 at 7:OO P. M. in the Community Room. Library designer Alyce Reimenschneider will be the featured speaker. 

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NEW COLOR PHOTO BOOK ON CHARLEVOIX AVAILABLE IN JUNE

Last month it was reported that a new 64-pp. full color book titled Charlevoix, the Beautiful by Mike Barton of Boulder, Colorado was coming out. The book is just off the press and will be available at the museum store after the first week in June. The book retails for $19.95 plus tax (total $21.20).  Handling and postage for mailing will be $3.50 extra.

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COULD YOU WRITE GRANTS FOR THE SOCIETY?

The Historical Society is in constant need of support funds for the lighthouse, depot re- storation, and the photo digitization project. The Society needs someone to help write grant applications a few times a year, or even oversee the grant writing program. If you can help out, call President Paul Nowak at 547-1388 or Steve Goslee at 547-0373.

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NOMINATIONS FOR 2008-2009 OFFICERS & BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The following names have been nominated to fill the offices and directorship of the Historical Society at the annual election to be held on July 1. President: Mona Bergeon; Vice-President: Chris Unbehaun; Secretary, Kay Heise; Treasurer, Dave Garland; Finance Chair: Paul Nowak; Membership Chair: Amy Lalewicz; Directors term ending 2011: Paul Hoelderle & Phyllis Elzinga; Director term ending 2010: Chuck Unbehaun.

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Donations received in memory of Frank Ochs from: Jeannine Wallace; Eileen Edwards; James & Susan Mabee; Marjory Dinwiddie; Dr. John & Carolyn MacKenzie; George & Lula Baldwin; Larry & Amy Wagenknecht; Dr. Dennis & Karen Joy; Arthur & Janice Kingsley; Neil & Donna Wilson; Wes & Laurel Westhoven; Jim & Helen Byce; Judy & Michael Przbylski; Edith Dale; Elbert & Beverly Kaiser; Barry & Laurie Standiford; Clarence E. & Janice Werbinski; Marilyn Swanson & Bob Johnson; William & Shirley Ormsby; John & Elaine Kurtz; James & Linda Willis; Greg & Rose Baran

Donation received in memory of Sandra Beaudoin from: Thomas Bickersteth

Depot restoration donations received from: John & Susan Logie; Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Merrill

Lighthouse restoration donation received from: Angelo & Marita Parrish

The Society deeply regrets the recent passing of longtime members: Max Hosmer, Ella Ingalls, and Frank Ochs