May Benzonia Academy Lecture - "Some of Benzie's Earliest Settlers"

Description

All 12 of Benzie County townships have a rich history illustrating economic, ethnic, religious, gender and racial diversity. Most of the settlers came after the Civil War and were inspired by the Homestead Act of Abraham Lincoln’s administration. Many also came for the lumbering business and once the trees were gone stayed to farm, the climate and soil particularly favorable for fruit orchards. In taking just one pioneer from each township Mary hopes to expand the story and framework of our early history.