Featured West Michigan Destination- Manistee

Surrey Rides in Manistee

On October 8, 1871, the same day as the Great Chicago Fire and fires throughout the midwest, more than half of the city of Manistee burned. Within a year, the wooden buildings that had been destroyed were replaced by brick structures, many of which were designed by famous architects of that period. Monuments to the prosperous Victorian Era, a good number are still standing, enjoyed and admired by residents and visitors alike. Today, it’s not the lumber era that draws visitors to the Manistee area, it’s the beauty of our surroundings and the many things to see and do year round. Stroll through our neighborhoods and admire the surviving “Painted Ladies” and the carefully restored downtown shops and buildings. Whatever the reason, whatever the season, we’re glad you are here. Welcome to Manistee County.

MANISTEE FIRE HALL (1888): (231) 723-1549
The Manistee Fire Hall is a two-story, cross gabled, Romanesque Revival-style building, rests on a fieldstone foundation. It is flanked by a two-and-one half story copper domed tower. Designed by architect F.W. Hollister, the structure is unique in that it has not undergone any alterations in usage or design since it was built. It is the oldest continuously operating fire hall in Michigan.

The Ramsdell Theatre

THE RAMSDELL THEATRE (1903): (231) 723-7188
Designed by famed architect Solon S. Beman for local lawyer and philanthropist Thomas Jefferson Ramsdell at a cost of $100,000, this ornate theatre boasts an act curtain by Walter Burridge, the scenic artist who designed the sets for the original stage production of “The Wizard of Oz”; a 26 ft. Gilded proscenium; and original murals bedecking the dome and newly restored lobby.  The Manistee Civic Players present theatrical productions and concerts year-round, the Manistee Art Institute hosts art exhibits in the T. Walter Hardy Exhibit hall, and concerts of the Manistee Symphony Orchestra & Chorus are in the Ramsdell.  

WMTA Members in Manistee