Beaver Island   Located on Lake Michigan Nearby Charlevoix   St. James Harbor Lighthouse, pictured Built in 1870, located on Northern tip of Island

Attractions

Beaver Island Harbor Light

Beaver Island Lighthouse

Beaver Island Marine Museum

Community Information

Charlevoix Chamber of Commerce

Golf Courses

Beaver Island Golf Course

Local History

Beaver Island is the most remote, inhabited island in the Great Lakes, with a year-round population of about 500 and a pace of life that is relaxed and welcoming.

A rich and colorful history includes Native Americans who inhabited the island as early as 700 A.D. and Irish Americans who fished the fertile waters of Lake Michigan.

In the mid-1800's, a band of Mormons followed James Strang to Beaver Island, where Strang set himself up as king, establishing the only kingdom in the United States.  The concept of a Mormon kingdom didn't set too well with the natives.  Strang was ultimately assassinated by the original settlers.

Today, the island offers visitors an array of taverns, restaurants and quirky, interesting museums.  Outdoor activities including biking, backpacking, golfing, hunting and fishing, or relaxing on pristine beaches.

The island can be reached by boat or plane.  Island Airways flies daily, and the Beaver Island Boat Company makes trips to the island April through December.

Informational excerpts from Michigan Place Names, by Walter Romig, L.H.D.

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