Bring the history, culture, and natural wonders of Mackinac to life – virtually! Our team of interpreters offers a number of different live, interactive virtual programs streamed directly to you. Click the links below for information on our award-winning programs, new programs being offered virtually this year, and education and lesson plans. These programs are suitable for students in grades 3-5, but can be modified for adult groups. All programs last about one hour. All programs offered via Zoom. All of the links below are for VIRTUAL programs. *Virtual programs have concluded for the 2023-24 season.* Please click here for information on in-person outreach programs.
Part of Mackinac State Historic Parks’ educational outreach program for over 20 years, Historic Mackinac on Tour invites participants to explore the complex cultural relationships that powered 18th century Michigan. See how Anishnaabek, French Canadian, and British residents cooperated and compromised with one another as part of the Great Lakes fur trade and participated in a global economic and cultural exchange. This is a VIRTUAL program.
In order to survive winter, animals in the North Woods of Michigan adapt in many amazing ways. This interactive presentation will explore what plants and animals need to survive, the climate of our region, and why the seasons change. Using animal mounts, photos, and stories we’ll investigate the adaptations of animals such as owls, grouse, otters, fox, and beaver. This is a VIRTUAL program.
This program critically examines the daily lives of enslaved Native American and Black people living and working in places like Michilimackinac in the 18th century, and how systems of enslavement contributed to early Michigan history. This is a VIRTUAL program.
Women were not bystanders to the 18th century fur-trading community. In this program participants will be introduced to women from diverse backgrounds, each of whom had an integral role in making the Straits of Mackinac a center of commerce and diplomacy. This is a VIRTUAL program.
People from Michigan played a critical role in the American Revolution. This program explores their motivations for participating in the war, and will provide an overview of the numerous contributions the Anishnaabek and other indigenous people made in shaping the outcome of the Revolution. This is a VIRTUAL program.
Michigan attained full statehood in 1837, but what impact did that have on the Anishinabek who lived throughout Michigan? In this program participants will look at the process of Michigan’s statehood and how the Anishinabek responded to preserve their culture, specifically in the 1830s. This is a VIRTUAL program.
A variety of supporting materials you can use for your classroom are available for you at any time.
