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The Legacy Cultural TreasuresSleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore boasts many natural wonders—crimson sunsets, clear blue lakes, diverse wildlife and fascinating geological features. Yet, within this powerful landscape are other jewels— a wealth of historic and cultural resources. They have etched into the landscape, imprints of a rich Native American, pioneer and maritime past, and are integral to the subtle beauty of the Park’s pastoral countryside. What We Are Preserving Historic buildings and cultural landscapes located in the following areas:
Why They Should be Saved – The Story When Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore was first established, the founders were unaware of the breadth and significance of the historic treasures that lie within it. Today, the historic Port Oneida Rural Historic District, as an example, is recognized by historians as "one of the most prized historic landscapes in the nation!" It is unique as one of few intact historic agricultural communities in public ownership. More than 350 historic structures in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore are eligible for, or listed on the National Register of Historic Places for their historic or architectural value. These historic farmsteads, barns, outbuildings, inns, cottages, schoolhouses, log cabins, open fields, fence posts, orchards, cemeteries and meadows, are collectively known as cultural landscapes, connecting us to our past—a story of life settled from the water. They teach, in living color, Great Lakes history: Logging on North Manitou; Turn-of-the-century tourism near Crystal Lake; Farming on South Manitou Island; And 19th century settlers who built the Port Oneida community. If they disappear, the history of who came before, and how the land was used, will be gone forever. While reminding us of days gone by, they also enhance our lives today by offering inspiring places for recreation – for writing, photography, painting, hiking and more. This incredible cultural legacy within the arms of the National Lakeshore should be saved for all generations to learn from and enjoy. Can They Be Saved? It depends – mostly on time and money. Steps on the path to success are taken daily, yet the needs of hundreds of historic structures outstrip the capacity of the Park, even with the help that Preserve has been able to provide. Many of the remaining buildings are in danger of being lost after having survived over 30 years of neglect and harsh northern Michigan winters. In addition, several historic agricultural landscapes are critically threatened by the encroachment of vegetation causing a loss of integrity and viewscapes. Preserve Historic Sleeping Bear needs your support to help the Park protect what belongs to all of us. How You Can Help General Management Plan On-going decisions regarding management of historic properties are complicated issues that Park management face and will determine what the Legacy will look like 20 years from now. The Park’s new General Management Plan [new window] helps to answer these questions. A subsequent Historic Properties Management Plan will be drafted in the near future. Preserve Historic Sleeping Bear actively offers input during public comment periods throughout these processes. Click here for more info. Go Back :: Home Page |