In the United States much emphasis has been placed on the importance of the American Revolution as it relates to U.S. history. With a large population base within and near the original thirteen colonies, it's not surprising that historic sites and battlefields receive considerable visitation.

Perhaps just as significant are events that took place in the Great Lakes region during the early 1700s. Some say because there wasn't a true American involved then that it doesn't count. However it remains a relevant part of this country's past.

Here along the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron and in the Mississippi River Valley, there are enormously rich stories. Many of them involve the French - voyagers, fur traders and the missionary Father Pere Jacques Marquette who lived and worked in the wilderness near the waterways. Also present were the British who sought to fortify and keep the land for the throne. In their midst were indigenous Indian tribes.

MACKINAC STATE HISTORIC PARKS - FORT MACKINAC
A particularly telling area is Mackinaw City on Michigan's mainland and Mackinac Island across the Straits of Mackinac, just below the Upper Peninsula. Several attractions operated by Mackinac State Historic Parks bring life to this heritage. Mackinac Island State Park once served as the nation's second national park until it was transferred to Michigan, becoming the first state park. Access to the property, which encompasses 80 percent of the island, is free. Bike, walk, ride horseback or take horse drawn carriage tours into the interior to see its natural environment. One of the most picturesque views is at Arch Rock on the east side. From the limestone bluffs see Lake Huron and Lake Shore Rd. below. (Joined with Huron St., they circle the island's perimeter.)

While the park is open year-round, Fort Mackinac (fee) is only accessible from late April or early May to mid-October with the greatest number of activities scheduled between May and August. Regardless of age or interest, the fort has an appreciable list of things worth experiencing.

Fort Mackinac began on Michigan's mainland as Fort St. Philippe de Michilimackinac and was moved across the ice by the British during the American Revolution (1779-1780). While the outpost has been occupied by the British (1779-1796 and 1812), Americans (1796-1812 and 1812-1875) and later the federal government when it was a national park (1875-1895), it is interpreted for the 1880s time period. Fort Mackinac, which never saw battle, functioned more as a commerce department, keeping balance and order between the various parties involved in the fur industry.

The fort's entrance can be reached by taking a fairly steep ramp at the south sally port, or from the Avenue of Flags at the northwest corner - this is one of the stops on the horse drawn carriage tour that departs from downtown. Allow at least two hours to explore the compound, more to enjoy events and dine at the Tea Room.

To get a sense of military life, take in the cannon demonstration held on the gun platform next to the south sally high above Marquette Park, Haldimand Bay, the marina and downtown. Uniformed personnel are engaging and encourage audience participation.

Afterward children are invited to follow one of the Victorian ladies who will introduce them to games of yesteryear. Batteries are not included, nor required. Meanwhile, adults can gather at the edge of the parade ground to gain a better perspective of a soldier's daily routine. In the winter snow averages more than 100 inches and a day has 15 hours of darkness.