History of Alpena County, Michigan
Alpena County, located in the northeastern part of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, is a region rich in history, defined by its Native American roots, European exploration, and the rise of timber and industrial economies. The county’s natural beauty, from its pristine lakes and dense forests to its rugged shorelines, has shaped its development throughout the centuries. The area was originally inhabited by the Ojibwe and Odawa tribes, and after European settlement, the land evolved into a significant industrial hub, especially during the 19th century. Established in 1857, Alpena County is known for its rich maritime history, thriving timber industry, and vibrant community that continues to preserve its historic roots while embracing tourism and natural resource management.
Origins and Key Historical Events
Early Native American Presence
Before European explorers arrived, Alpena County was primarily inhabited by the Ojibwe and Odawa tribes. The Ojibwe people, part of the larger Anishinaabe cultural group, lived along the shores of Lake Huron and the Thunder Bay River, relying on the rich natural resources for their sustenance. Fishing, hunting, and the harvesting of wild rice were vital to their way of life. The region also served as a meeting point for various tribes in the Great Lakes region, with the waterways serving as natural trade routes.
The Ojibwe used birchbark canoes to travel across the lakes and rivers, and their knowledge of the land and its resources was passed down through generations. The Odawa (Ottawa) people, closely related to the Ojibwe, also lived in the area and were involved in trade with neighboring tribes and European settlers. The significance of these tribes to the region’s history cannot be overstated, as they laid the foundations for the region’s economy through their trade networks, especially the fur trade.
The arrival of French explorers in the 1600s, most notably Étienne Brûlé and Jean Nicollet, marked the beginning of European influence on the region. The French established fur trading posts and worked closely with the Native American tribes, exchanging goods and supplies. The French influence in Michigan would last until the British gained control in the 1760s after the French and Indian War.
European Exploration and Fur Trade
In the early 1700s, French fur traders expanded their networks across the Great Lakes. The French influence on the region was extensive during the 18th century, as the French traded guns, metal goods, and textiles with Native Americans in exchange for furs. The region’s rivers and lakes became vital routes for transporting goods between Montreal, Detroit, and other French colonies. The importance of the fur trade during this period cannot be overstated, as it laid the groundwork for European settlement and established strong ties between the Ojibwe and French settlers.
After the French and Indian War (1754–1763), Michigan came under British control. British forts were established along the Great Lakes, and the fur trade continued under British influence. However, the British presence would be short-lived, as following the American Revolution in 1783, Michigan was ceded to the United States. The fur trade persisted into the early 19th century, contributing to the early economy of the region, though it would eventually fade with the expansion of agriculture and industry.
Settlement and the Rise of Timber
The 1830s and 1840s saw the first significant European-American settlers arriving in what is now Alpena County. The fertile soil and rich timber resources, particularly vast stands of white pine, made the area attractive for settlers. By the mid-1800s, the arrival of railroads and the development of the lumber industry would change the course of Alpena County’s history. Alpena became a focal point for timber harvesting, with logs floated down the Thunder Bay River to sawmills located along the shore.
The timber boom in the 1800s brought an influx of settlers, many from New York, New England, and Germany, who were drawn to the region for its economic opportunities. The rapid growth of the logging industry also led to the establishment of small towns and villages, including Alpena, which became the county seat in 1857. By the late 19th century, Alpena was known as the “Lumber Capital” of the state of Michigan, producing large quantities of lumber that were shipped throughout the Great Lakes and beyond.
The Role of Shipping and Shipbuilding
In addition to timber, Alpena’s economy also benefited greatly from its location along the shores of Lake Huron, one of the Great Lakes. With the abundance of timber, the region became a hub for shipbuilding during the 19th century. Shipyards were established along the Thunder Bay River, and the first ships constructed in Alpena helped facilitate the transport of timber, coal, and iron ore across the Great Lakes.
The construction of the Alpena Light Station in 1875 further emphasized the importance of shipping to the region’s economy. The lighthouse, which continues to stand today, served as a vital navigational aid for ships traveling through Thunder Bay, guiding them safely through what were once dangerous waters.
The advent of steam-powered vessels during the mid-1800s made shipping even more profitable and efficient. Alpena’s shipyards built many ships used for freight transport, particularly in the timber and iron ore industries. The establishment of the Detroit and Bay City Railroad in the 1860s further connected Alpena to larger markets, making it an essential link in the industrial and shipping networks that spanned the Great Lakes.
The Decline of Timber and the Rise of Cement
By the early 20th century, the timber resources of Alpena County began to decline. The rapid depletion of the area’s white pine forests, combined with changing demands for wood products, led to the eventual collapse of the timber industry. However, this shift was not the end of Alpena’s industrial dominance. The region’s wealth of limestone and cement deposits allowed for the growth of the cement industry, which would become the backbone of Alpena’s economy for much of the 20th century.
The Alpena Cement Plant, established in 1908, became one of the largest cement plants in the world, producing large quantities of high-quality cement. This new industry brought prosperity to the region, and Alpena continued to grow both economically and in population. The plant’s presence helped diversify the local economy, shifting away from logging and shipbuilding to a more industrial economy.
Historical Sites in Alpena County
1. Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary
Overview
The Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary is a vital cultural and historical site in Alpena County, preserving more than 200 shipwrecks in the waters of Lake Huron. Established in 2000, it is one of the largest and most significant shipwreck preserves in the United States. The sanctuary’s shipwrecks span a wide variety of vessels, from wooden schooners to steamships, and represent a crucial part of Great Lakes history. Visitors can explore the sanctuary through boat tours, diving expeditions, or by visiting the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center in Alpena.
Location:
Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center, 500 W Fletcher St, Alpena, MI
Ticket Price:
- Adults: $5
- Children under 18: Free
Parking Information:
Ample free parking is available at the Heritage Center.
2. Alpena Light Station
Overview
The Alpena Light Station, or Alpena Lighthouse, was built in 1875 to guide ships navigating through the treacherous waters of Thunder Bay. The lighthouse has stood the test of time and remains a key symbol of Alpena’s maritime heritage. Today, it serves as a tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the area’s past and stunning views of Lake Huron and the Thunder Bay River.
Location:
Located at the end of the breakwater in Alpena Harbor, Alpena, MI
Ticket Price:
- Free (donations encouraged)
Parking Information:
Parking is available at the harbor, within walking distance of the lighthouse.
3. Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan
Overview
Founded in 1950, the Besser Museum is one of Alpena County’s most important cultural landmarks, offering a rich collection of historical, artistic, and geological exhibits. The museum highlights the area’s maritime history, the significance of the logging industry, and the local Native American tribes. The Alpena Model Railroad is a favorite exhibit, featuring a detailed recreation of the city’s early transportation networks. Additionally, the museum offers a variety of educational programs for visitors of all ages.
Location:
491 Johnson St, Alpena, MI
Ticket Price:
- Adults: $10
- Seniors (62+): $8
- Children (under 18): Free
Parking Information:
Free parking is available on-site.
County Facts
Geography and Climate
Alpena County covers an area of 1,703 square miles, of which 315 square miles are water. The county is bordered by Lake Huron to the east, and is characterized by its mix of forested areas, wetlands, and lakeshores. Thunder Bay provides a unique ecosystem with a variety of plant and animal life. The region is home to many parks and nature reserves, with the Alpena State Forest and Rockport State Recreation Area offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
The climate in Alpena County is classified as humid continental, with cold, snowy winters and warm summers. Winters bring significant snowfall, averaging 100 inches per year, while summer temperatures typically range from 70°F to 80°F. The lake has a moderating effect on the weather, making the county’s climate generally milder than areas further inland.
Key County Statistics
- Year Founded: 1857
- County Seat: Alpena
- Population: 17,000 (approx.)
- Population Density: 10 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Alpena, Presque Isle, Hubbard Lake
- Major Highways: US-23, M-32, M-65
- Adjacent Counties:
- Presque Isle County (north)
- Montmorency County (west)
- Ogemaw County (southwest)
- Oscoda County (south)
- Lake Huron (east)