This group of Islands were, and still are, a popular resort area located some 15 miles northeast of Mackinac Island at the top of Lake Huron near Cedarville, Michigan. Usually referred to as "The Snows" there are 36 islands in this group. The largest is Marquette Island. Smaller ones include Boot Island and Government Island. A few of the islands are so tiny that they can only hold one summer cottage. All of these abodes must be reached by boat since no roads connect the islands with the mainland.
Almost a hundred years ago, when a number of resort hotels operated in the area, relatively large steamers served the islands, carrying not only passengers, but also mail and freight. Shown in the photo above is one of the Arnold Transit vessels which operated between Mackinac Island and The Snows early in the 20th century. In later years, a single Motor Vessel, the OTTAWA, offered daily excursions between Mackinac Island and The Snows. In the 50's even this service was discontinued and the OTTAWA became a workboat for Wahlstrom's Marina at Harbor Springs, MI. Nowadays resorters must rely on their own power boats to reach their summer homes. Well maintained wooden Chris Crafts are still very popular among Snow Island residents.
Located on the mainland, opposite The Snows, THE ISLINGTON was probably the largest summer hotel in the area. This early 1900's photo shows it with the steamer pier in the foreground. Undoubtedly many of those on the dock came north to escape the symptoms of hay fever and asthma thanks to the relatively pollen free air at the top of Lake Huron.
Early outboard motors were often balky affairs. Here we see James Pottinger, an employee of the Islington, making adjustments to one of these gasoline engines.
Besides boating, fishing, golfing and bridge games, chess was also available for the enjoyment of both the Islington's guests and and its employees. In this photo James Pottinger, mentioned above, can be seen while he awaits the arrival of a worthy opponent on September 11, 1915.
Shirley Hersey, a 1930's era summer visitor from Birmingham,Michigan, is shown at the CEDAR INN's steamer dock.
Even in modern times, many portions of the islands are still quite heavily forested. This view of Boot Island was snapped in August of 1999. It shows your webmaster, his wife Nancy and dog Ginger.
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