The Straits of Mackinac have a uniquely rich history. Mackinac State Historic Parks (MSHP) sets out to preserve and present this rich history at its historic sites through interpretive galleries, dynamic demonstrations, and, especially, engaging exhibits. However, the creation and installation of new exhibits requires intense research, patience, and, above all else, money. This is where Mackinac Associates comes in. Mackinac Associates are friends preserving and sharing Mackinac’s heritage. Providing crucial support in the development of new MSHP exhibits fulfills this mission.
Why is it Important?
Through membership dues, sponsorships, and donations Mackinac Associates helps continue MSHP’s efforts to preserve and interpret the history of the Straits of Mackinac. This could take the form of annual fall and spring appeal donations, and sponsorships, which aids in the development of said exhibits. Supporting the development of exhibits allows Mackinac Associates the opportunity to physically share and interpret Mackinac’s heritage.
Recent 2024 Projects Supported by Mackinac Associates
- Arch Rock: Unsurpassed in Nature’s Beauty
Opened in early June the exhibit Arch Rock: Unsurpassed in Nature’s Beauty at the Milliken Nature Center explores the history and evolution of Mackinac Island’s Arch Rock. The exhibit touches on geological and tourism history with interactive elements such as fossils, rocks, and historic photos of tourists at Arch Rock. The Milliken Nature Center serves as a place to preserve and interpret Arch Rock’s legacy. It also stands as a location for guests to relax before continuing their Mackinac Island State Park adventures.
- Slavery at the Straits
Combining archaeological and archival research to help present community life at Michilimackinac in the 1700s, Slavery at the Straits, located in the new addition to the Southwest Rowhouse at Colonial Michilimackinac, opened in July to members and guests. Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, slavery was an integral part of the community at Michilimackinac, as well as the rest of Michigan. Enslaved Black and Native American men and women worked in all levels of society, doing everything from domestic work to skilled labor. Already a hub of the Great Lakes fur trade, Michilimackinac also served as the center of the regional trade in enslaved workers as French and British colonists exploited preexisting systems of Native American enslavement to feed a growing demand for enslaved labor.
How To Spot a Mackinac Associates Supported Exhibit
How do you know when an exhibit is sponsored by Mackinac Associates? Easy – just look for the Mackinac Associates’ sponsored signs and plaques. Each details the support made by Mackinac Associates and its members with the Associates logo, like the addition to the Slavery at the Straits exhibit. To help us fund future projects and exhibits, consider becoming a member, donor or sponsor. Your support will help Mackinac Associates continue to assist Mackinac State Historic Parks to protect, preserve and present the historic and natural resources of the Straits of Mackinac.
