Eagle Township in Grand Ledge in Eaton County, Michigan — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Historic Island Rollercoaster
Photographed By J.T. Lambrou, August 21, 2023
1. Historic Island Rollercoaster Marker
Inscription.
Historic Island Rollercoaster. . In 1891, Julian Scott Mudge constructed what is believed to be the first roller coaster in Michigan, on the second island(now Island Park) of the Seven Islands Resort. The resort featured a hotel on the second island, a casino on the third island, and numerous foot bridges connecting the islands to the mainland. The roller coaster thrilled visitors as a one-way ride over the Grand River from the second to the third island. In 1883, after just two years of operation the roller coaster went down in a flood. To learn more about the history of the Seven Islands and Grand Ledge visit www.gledgehistsoc.org. For more information about art in Grand Ledge visit CityofGrandLedge.com.
In 1891, Julian Scott Mudge constructed what is believed to be the first roller coaster in Michigan, on the
second island(now Island Park) of the Seven Islands Resort. The resort featured a hotel on the second
island, a casino on the third island, and numerous foot bridges connecting the islands to the mainland. The
roller coaster thrilled visitors as a one-way ride over the Grand River from the second to the third island. In
1883, after just two years of operation the roller coaster went down in a flood. To learn more about the history of
the Seven Islands and Grand Ledge visit www.gledgehistsoc.org. For more information about art in Grand Ledge
visit CityofGrandLedge.com.
Erected by Lansing Economic Area Partnership with PNC Foundation.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Entertainment • Parks & Recreational Areas. A significant historical year for this entry is 1891.
Location. 42° 45.319′ N, 84° 44.74′ W. Marker is in Grand Ledge, Michigan, in Eaton County. It is in Eagle Township. Marker is on Boardwalk near West River Street, on the right when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 206 West River Street, Grand Ledge MI 48837, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Second Island (within shouting distance of this marker); Blake's Opera House
Credits. This page was last revised on January 22, 2024. It was originally submitted on January 19, 2024, by J.T. Lambrou of New Boston, Michigan. This page has been viewed 60 times since then. Photos:1, 2, 3. submitted on January 19, 2024, by J.T. Lambrou of New Boston, Michigan. • J. Makali Bruton was the editor who published this page.
