| Michigan's Emerald Isle |
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Thirty-two miles off of our West Coast just over the horizon and beyond our view lies what some call the Emerald Isle. On the map it is more commonly known as Beaver Island. This gem of Lake Michigan is 13 miles long and 6 miles wide with a total area of approximately 40 square miles.
I’ve always been fascinated with maps and even more so with out-of-the-way places, especially islands. Just like the Manitou Islands, which we visited last year, Beaver Island is one of those spots I wanted to add to my list of destinations. Earlier in the year we mentioned our idea to some good friends who agreed to join us and together we made plans. Our adventure began with an early departure from the dock in Charlevoix and as we passed under the drawbridge, locals waved friendly good-byes as we departed the harbor. Our friend Jan, who is seasick prone, had medicated herself with a healthy dose of Dramamine. Needless to say, the calm seas that greeted us were a welcome sight to all and we tried not to draw to much attention to ourselves as we returned the barf bags to their dispenser. We wanted to look like old hands at this. At the scheduled arrival time we sailed into the pristine Paradise Bay which is also called Beaver Harbor. St. James, the only town on the island, is located on the bay at the north end of the island. Our rental car was waiting for us at the dock with the keys in the ignition. We came to the realization that islanders don’t concern themselves with car theft. Beaver Island is rich in colorful history, much of which can be learned with the aid of the helpful docents at the local Historical Society Museum. Traders, who supplied fish and wood to fuel passing Great Lakes steamships, first settled Beaver Island. The Mormon era began in the 1847 with the arrival of James Strang who in 1850 declared himself king amongst his followers and and ruled the settlement until two of his disgruntled followers murdered him in 1856. Following the Mormon era, the Irish influence grew and is still felt today as you dine at the Shamrock Pub or pick up some groceries at McDonough’s Market. The Island boasts 45 miles of emerald green shoreline most of which is reachable on the 100 miles of scenic roads and more trails than one could explore in a month. There are two lighthouses to visit and abandoned cabins worth exploration. Beautiful beaches beckon all beachcombers for a stroll and possibly a dip in the brisk waters of Lake Michigan. Fishing is good both around the Island as well as in the lakes scattered about the interior. The sunsets observed from the beaches on the Western coast are spectacular and a real photo opportunity.  |
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