Inside Mackinac: A Historic Preservationist's Memoir - Paperback

by Eugene T. Petersen (Author), Marta J. Olson (Editor)

For nearly three decades, historian Eugene T. Petersen devoted his career to preserving one of America's most cherished places-Mackinac Island. In Inside Mackinac, Petersen opens the doors to the past, sharing a vivid and deeply personal account of how vision, creativity, and persistence transformed a fading fort into a living history destination that continues to inspire visitors today.

From the restoration of Fort Mackinac to the groundbreaking archaeology project at Colonial Michilimackinac, Petersen's story captures the heart of Michigan's historic preservation movement. Along the way, he reveals the challenges of leading a small but determined team within state government, balancing scholarship with public appeal, and proving that history could be both authentic and accessible.

Told with humor, candor, and insight, Inside Mackinac is far more than a historical account-it's a meditation on leadership, integrity, and the power of place. Readers will meet the visionaries, scholars, and community leaders who brought Mackinac's stories back to life, and glimpse the behind-the-scenes struggles that shaped Michigan's first state park and its enduring legacy.

Whether you're a lover of Michigan history, a museum professional, or simply someone who treasures the preservation of our shared heritage, this memoir offers inspiration and perspective on what it truly means to save history for future generations.