MANISTIQUE, Mich. (WZMQ) – The Schoolcraft County Historical Society has curated a collection of local military history, which is available for public viewing just in time for Veterans Day.
The Historical Society began researching and compiling the history of Schoolcraft County veterans years ago, under the leadership of then-president Larry Peterson. Members have finally made an extensive display of their findings, which is being shown inside the old Manistique water tower.
“I got involved in 2018,” said Society Secretary Sherri Krause. “I said, ‘We need a women’s section,’ so I concentrated on that. Then, we were closed up [during the pandemic]. Last year, we opened briefly but had no displays because we had a leak on the roof. This year, the roof got fixed so we started having displays again.”
The “Tribute to Veterans” display features photos, news clippings, and memorabilia detailing the lives and service of dozens of local veterans. The tribute includes the story of one of the first female Air Force pilots, as well as the legacy of a family whose service spans multiple wars.
“Schoolcraft County has a very, very rich history in the military,” Krause said. “A large percentage of the population has served.”
The Historical Society invites the public to visit the “Tribute to Veterans” Tuesday through Saturday between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. The water tower will also be open to the public on Monday, November 11, in honor of Veterans Day.
On Friday, November 8, four local veterans—three nonagenarians and one centenarian—will be at the water tower at 1 p.m. to greet guests. Krause says it is a perfect opportunity to view the Tribute to Veterans and personally thank some Schoolcraft County heroes.
“These guys have served, and they did it for us,” she said. “When they sign on the dotted line, they’re signing their lives away. They’re giving their lives, actually, for the country. It’s a very big thing.”
For more information on the Schoolcraft County Historical Society, follow the official Facebook page or visit schs.cityofmanistique.org. Membership is available, and those interested in joining the Historical Society can call (906) 286-4103 or email schs1860@gmail.com.
