Mackinac Island’s Oldest Building Tells A Story Of Resilience

When it comes to the United States, there aren’t as many old buildings or structures as in Europe, but we try to do our best to maintain historical landmarks.

Michigan is full of historical landmarks and some pretty old buildings as well. It turns out that the oldest building in the entire state is still up and running and is one of the most visited places in the state.

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The building resides on Mackinac Island in Fort Mackinac and is the Officers' Stone Quarters, which operates as a few things, but now serves food in the spring and summer.

The building itself was built in 1780, and considering it’s almost 250 years old, it looks pretty good considering the control of the Ford changed hands so many times, as upsupply.co highlights:

The U.S. gained control of Mackinac Island and Fort Mackinac following the Revolutionary War, then lost control to the British after the War of 1812. After an unsuccessful American invasion during the Battle of Mackinac Island in 1814, the U.S. regained control by treaty in 1815. The fort was continued as a fur trading post, but lost its military significance. It became a reserve location for troops awaiting deployment to other locations.

I think it's awesome that a few summers ago, I had lunch in the oldest building in Michigan, and didn't even know it. I just wish they had a bit more public knowledge that visitors are seeing a true Michigan relic.

There are many old buildings on the island that are worth visiting, especially if you're interested in Michigan's storied history.