Historical landmarks in Marquette, Michigan

Welcome to the Father Marquette Memorial Cross, a revered landmark located at 883 South Lakeshore Drive in the picturesque town of Ludington, Michigan. This historical site pays tribute to the esteemed French Jesuit missionary, Father Jacques Marquette, who played a pivotal role in exploring and documenting the Great Lakes region during the 17th century. The memorial is marked by a towering cross, set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Michigan, offering visitors a serene and reflective experience. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful spot to relax, the Father Marquette Memorial Cross provides a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.

The Northern Michigan University Historical Marker is located at 1401 Presque Isle Avenue in Marquette, Michigan. This historical marker commemorates the founding and growth of Northern Michigan University, a public university known for its strong academic programs and beautiful campus. Visitors can learn about the university's rich history and contributions to the community, making it a must-see destination for anyone interested in the educational heritage of the Upper Peninsula. The marker is situated within a park-like setting, providing a peaceful and educational experience for all who visit.

The Novi Pere Marquette Railroad Depot is a historic train station located in Novi, Michigan, United States. This charming building served as a vital transportation hub for the community during the early 20th century, connecting passengers and goods to various destinations across the region. Today, the depot stands as a symbol of Novi's rich railroad history and offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved architecture and exhibits. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking to explore a piece of local heritage, the Novi Pere Marquette Railroad Depot is a must-visit destination in the heart of Novi.

Marquette Rail Sparta Depot is a historic train station located at 258 South Elm Street in Sparta, Michigan, United States. This charming depot offers a glimpse into the town's rich railroad history and serves as a hub for transportation and community gatherings. Visitors can explore the exhibits showcasing the importance of the railway in shaping Sparta's development, as well as enjoy events and activities hosted at the depot. Whether you're a train enthusiast or simply looking to learn more about Sparta's past, Marquette Rail Sparta Depot is a must-visit destination for all ages.

Grandview Marquette is an affordable apartment complex located at 600 Altamont Street in Marquette, Michigan. This institution is a transformative project that has repurposed the historic Holy Family Orphanage into modern housing options for the Marquette community. Using state-of-the-art energy-efficient technology, Grandview Marquette offers 56 units, with 14 units specifically designated for formerly homeless individuals and families in need of support. The building, constructed in 1915 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has preserved many of its original features, including a landmark sandstone multistory front porch and a restored chapel for community use. Partnering with Community Action Alger Marquette, Grandview Marquette aims to provide affordable housing close to essential services for area working families.

Welcome to the New Buffalo Pere Marquette RR Coal Tower, a historic gem located in the heart of New Buffalo, Michigan. Situated at 214 West Washington Street, this iconic landmark offers a unique glimpse into the rich railway history of the region. Originally built to serve the Pere Marquette Railway, the coal tower stands as a testament to the industrial heritage that shaped our community. Today, the New Buffalo Pere Marquette RR Coal Tower invites visitors to explore its fascinating past and appreciate its architectural beauty. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a railway aficionado, or simply looking for an interesting stop during your visit to New Buffalo, the coal tower provides an engaging experience for all.

Welcome to the Pere Marquette Railroad Depot - Ludington, a cherished historical landmark nestled in the heart of Ludington, Michigan. Located at 705 South Madison Street, our depot offers a unique glimpse into the rich railroad heritage that shaped the region. Step back in time and explore the beautifully preserved architecture and fascinating exhibits that celebrate the legacy of the Pere Marquette Railway. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a train aficionado, or simply looking for a unique local experience, our depot provides an educational and engaging journey for visitors of all ages. Join us and discover the stories of the past that continue to inspire the community today. We look forward to welcoming you to our historic depot!

Little Presque Isle Day Use Area is a stunning park located on the shore of Lake Superior, just 7 miles northwest of Marquette, Michigan. This crown jewel of Lake Superior offers beautiful sand beaches, rugged shoreline cliffs, heavily timbered forests, and unmatched public views. The area is a combination of wooded dunes, swales, and bedrock lakeshore, providing a diverse and unique natural setting. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at Little Presque Isle, including birdwatching, hiking, geologic exploration, nature study, and photography. Nearby camping and swimming opportunities make it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park also offers hunting opportunities for those looking to explore the surrounding wilderness.

Granot Loma is a unique and historic estate located at 1000 County Road KE in Marquette, Michigan, United States. This stunning property offers total seclusion with over a mile of private beach on Lake Superior, including an island. The estate features a 140 foot-long Great Room with a massive fireplace, a chandelier made from a giant tree root, totem poles, and more. The dining room is perfect for any event, from corporate outings to family meals. Originally built between 1919 and 1923 by Louis Graveraet Kaufman, Granot Loma is the largest log cabin in the world and a National Historic Landmark. Restored in 1987 by Tom Baldwin, this estate has a rich legacy of powerful men who have influenced events. Gerald Ford even considered using Granot Loma as his Western White House.

Welcome to the Keweenaw Waterway Upper Entrance Light Beacon Station, a historic maritime landmark nestled within the scenic beauty of McLain State Park in Hancock, Michigan. This iconic beacon has guided vessels through the Keweenaw Waterway, a vital shortcut for ships navigating between Marquette and eastern ports like Ashland and Duluth, especially during the stormy fall season when its protected waters are preferred over the open expanse of Lake Superior. The lighthouse's rich history dates back to 1874, when it was first established to illuminate the entrance to the Portage Lake Ship Canal. Over the years, it has undergone numerous transformations, from its original brick structure to the current square, white tower that stands proudly with a focal plane of eighty-two feet. This tower, built in 1950, is reminiscent of other mid-20th-century lighthouses found in Conneaut, Ohio, Port Washington, Wisconsin, and Indiana Harbor, Indiana.

Former Holy Family Orphanage, located at 600 Altamont Street in Marquette, Michigan, United States, was a place of refuge for orphaned children in the past. This historic building holds a significant place in the community's history, providing care and support for those in need. Today, the institution has been repurposed and transformed into a community center, serving as a hub for various programs and events. Visitors can explore the rich history of the orphanage through guided tours and exhibits, offering a glimpse into the lives of the children who once called this place home. Former Holy Family Orphanage stands as a reminder of the importance of compassion and community support for those in vulnerable situations.

Welcome to Big Sable Point Lighthouse Trail, a picturesque park nestled in the heart of Pere Marquette Charter Township, Michigan. Located at the historic address of Michigan 49411, this enchanting destination offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history. Explore the serene trails that lead you through lush forests and stunning dunes, culminating in the breathtaking sight of the iconic Big Sable Point Lighthouse. Whether you're an avid hiker, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, our park provides an unforgettable experience for all.

Welcome to Pere Marquette Coal Tower, a historic landmark nestled in the charming city of Ludington, Michigan. Located at the heart of Ludington, our iconic coal tower stands as a testament to the rich industrial heritage of the region. Originally constructed in the early 20th century, the coal tower played a crucial role in fueling the steam locomotives that traversed the Pere Marquette Railway, a vital transportation link that contributed to the economic growth of the area. Today, the Pere Marquette Coal Tower invites visitors to step back in time and explore its storied past. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a railway aficionado, or simply looking for a unique experience, our site offers a fascinating glimpse into the industrial era. As you tour the grounds, you'll discover informative displays and exhibits that detail the history of the coal tower and its significance to Ludington and the surrounding region.