About the Area

The Historic Manitou Islands

There was once a time when the best way to get from New York to Chicago was by water! A variety of boats plied a system of rivers and canals between New York City and Buffalo on the eastern end of Lake Erie. Travelers then boarded Great Lakes sailing ships for the trip to the new frontier town and points west. In 1832, the first steamboat visited Chicago. Thus began the Manitou Islands' human history.

Navigating the treacherous Manitou Passage was worth the risk because of the time saved. South Manitou offered a deep and protected natural harbor which provided refuge from the angry seas of gale winds or sudden storms, and the bountiful supply of wood found on both Islands provided for the voracious appetite of the boilers on early steamships!

From Rye Farmers ...

The Islands are unmatched in beauty and tranquility, and have a mystique that often hooks visitors. It's not surprising that visiting sailors and passengers often decided not to leave with the boat! By the late 19th century the Islands both boasted small settlements, including important Life Saving Service and Lighthouse Service installations. Immigrant farmers were also developing their unique agricultural potential. A strain of rye was developed on South Manitou that eventually tripled the nation's production of this important grain.

... to Park Rangers

As steamboats turned into "propellers", the importance of the Islands began to fade. By the mid-1950's most Islanders had left, including even the Coast Guard. Luckily, some 20-years later the Islands became part of a National Park, so they now belong to us all.