On the M-109 loop that runs between Empire and Glen Arbor in Leelanau County, along the Lake Michigan shoreline stands a stately sign that marks the forward-thinking of more than a century ago that recognized Michigan’s need for a statewide parks system.
This particular sign commemorates the creation of D.H. Day State Park (now part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore) and Michigan’s post-World War I movement to preserve other scenic sites as public outdoor recreation destinations.
These green-and-gold signs, known as Michigan Historical Markers, dot buildings and landscapes, sharing snippets of Michigan’s rich history.
Since it was authorized by the Legislature in 1955, the program has approved and placed more than 1,700 markers throughout the state.
Although a marker can’t tell the full story it does provide a great starting point to learn more.
Until recently, curious Michiganders have relied on a list or a book to find the state’s historical markers. Staff at the DNR and the Michigan History Center put their expertise together to find a way to make it easier for folks to find and learn about the markers and the history they honor.
The result? A new, interactive website (www.michigan.gov/markers) that can be accessed by phone, computer screen or tablet – no special app required.
Once on the website, visitors will find an interactive map that shows marker sites across the state. A search box at the top right corner of the map makes it possible for users to find markers near their homes, businesses or vacation spots.
On the map, each marker is represented by a small green icon. When a visitor clicks on an icon, a menu box with title and address information pops up. The pop-up box includes clickable links that enable a visitor to zoom in on the map, learn more about the marker, or get driving directions to the marker using Google maps.
The detail link provides specific information about the marker, including its location and installation dates, an image, and the marker text.