The Harbor Springs Area Historical Society invites visitors to explore different exhibits; right now being, "Don't Miss the Boat."
Take a step back in time to an era of steam whistles and ship flags on Harbor Springs Area Historical Society, "Don't Miss the Boat." On the viewing of this exhibit, visitors will learn about the historic ferries of Little Traverse Bay and be inspired after viewing artist Wiliam Talmadge Hall's original watercolor artwork. Hall's artwork will be on display here until September 2021.
It was only in 1875 that the very first ferry company was organized to take a route between Harbor Springs and Petoskey. After the first trip, ferries ran regularly until 1930, which is when Roe Bros. sold their last ship and discontinued their service to visitors. The rise of the automobile was the time when the ferry traffic declined quickly. At the height of the season, ferries would carry around 5,000 passengers a day to docks at Harbor Point, Harbor Springs, Wequetonsing, Roaring Brook, Bay View and Petoskey.
With so much rich history among these ferries and what they did being some of the first in the area, no wonder a huge display is presented this summer. "Don't Miss the Boat" will be on display through the summer of 2021; so this is the summer to check it out. Admission to the Harbor Springs History Museum is by donation. The Historical Society's Museum Store will also be carrying limited edition ferry posters and postcards to celebrate the exhibit. So make sure to roam around the shop after experiencing all that this exhibit has to offer.
About Harbor Springs Historical Society
Harbor Springs Historical Society was founded in 1990 by a group of citizens who felt committed to preserving the area's history. Since then, this historical society has only continued to grow and even present unique exhibits, such as the one above, "Don't Miss the Boat."
For a majority of Harbor Springs Historical Society's opening, it is a very small, volunteer-run organization with limited paid staff. Board members and community members both volunteer their time to host annual celebrations and exhibits.
Today, the historical programs reputation continues to stand strong and well known for their exceptional exhibits and hands-on activities to tell Harbor Springs’ unique history.
Harbor Springs Area Historical Society - 349 E. Main Street, Harbor Springs, MI 49740
