St. Ignace in Mackinac County, Michigan — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Diving into History
Strewn across the bottomlands of East Moran Bay, particularly off this beach, are fascinating artifacts discarded from canoes, schooners, and steamboats for more than 300 years.
Commerial vessels—from Indian and French canoes to modern ore carriers—have plied these waters for centuries, maintaining a vital link between the natural resources of the region and markets to the east, south, and west. Passengers of all sorts have passed through the Straits on their way to Indian villages, European trading posts, commercial docks, and resorts.
Today, skin and scuba divers enjoy prowling the bottomlands to discover anchors, tools, bottles, machinery, and other items that were lost from passing ships. Strict laws—largely written by sport divers themselves—forbid divers from removing these artifacts, so they will continue to intrigue divers of other generations. In this way, our maritime heritage is preserved for others to enjoy.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Sports • Waterways & Vessels.
Location. 45° 52.1′ N, 84° 43.442′ W. Marker is in St. Ignace, Michigan, in Mackinac County. Marker can be reached from North State Street (Business Interstate 75), on the right when traveling north. Marker is on the Huron Boardwalk between East Truckey Street and Central Hill. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Saint Ignace MI 49781, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. St. Ignace (within shouting distance of this marker); Michigan State Ferry (within shouting distance of this marker); Mooring Facilities (within shouting distance of this marker); State Ferry Service (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); People and the Great Lakes (about 500 feet away); Civilian Conservation Corps (about 700 feet away); Mackinaw Boat (about 700 feet away); William H. Barnum (about 800 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in St. Ignace.
Credits. This page was last revised on September 18, 2019. It was originally submitted on September 18, 2019, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan. This page has been viewed 110 times since then and 17 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on September 18, 2019, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan.