Yesterday I took the ferry from St. Ignace, MI, over to Mackinac Island ... about a 15 minute boat ride. The Island is primarily a summer home and tourist location. Cars have been banned since 1902 (or so), which leaves walking, bike riding and horse-drawn carriages as the primary means of travel. Very nice not having to deal with cars, but the thousands of cyclists careening around causes one to be very careful when stepping off of the curb. But, as I say, nice not to deal with cars.
Once again, my bike touring has allowed me to take in history lessons that I missed (or slept through) during my years of schooling. Mackinac Island (pronounced "Mack-a-naw") was a key location in the disputes regarding who controlled the upper midwest ... the French, the British, or the newly formed Americans. The Island was also key to the fur trading industry, in as much as it sits at the joining of Lakes Michigan and Huron, and is easily accessed from Lake Superior.
One historical fact regarding the fort on Mackinac Island is that it was the location of the first confrontation of the War of 1812. I say "confrontation" because there was no fighting. The British, who were based at Fort Charles (northeast of Mackinac Island), received word that war had been declared, so they formed a war party and landed on Mackinac Island. The American army, who occupied the fort, did not know war had been declared until they looked out at the approaching 650 British soldiers and allied Indian tribesmen. Since there were only 50 Americans in the fort, the 24 year-old commanding officer decided to surrender. Very wise decision. Very interesting history.
Today I head north to Sault Ste. Marie ... you can see Canada from there (you bet'cha). Then I will head west along Lake Superior. Not at all sure what I will do when I get back to my truck (by Aug. 21). Not really enthused about traveling at the moment ... may head back to Arizona.
Oh well, all of these trips can't be great.
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