Mackinac State Historic Parks is hosting several free events in the coming days exploring Mackinac’s Forgotten Features, the cemeteries of Mackinac Island, and the War of 1812.

            Mackinac’s Forgotten Features bicycle tour will take place Saturday, July 12 starting at 3:00 p.m. Led by Park Naturalist Kyle Bagnall, this tour will lead visitors on a search for features that are long lost, forgotten, or no longer exist. Hear tales of Deer Park, Listening Hill, Dousman’s Distillery, Chimney Rock, Mount Humbard, Wishing Spring, and more! This journey starts at the Avenue of Flags, behind Fort Mackinac, and covers about six miles. Participants should bring a good working bike, a drink of water, and a sense of adventure.

            Next, join Interpretation Coordinator Jack Swartzinski for A Walk Through the Cemeteries of Mackinac Island on Wednesday, July 16 at 5:30 p.m. On this tour Swartzinski will guide guests through the Catholic, Protestant, and Military cemeteries, explaining the history of each while pointing out historic graves throughout. This tour will start at Ste. Anne’s Cemetery. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and guests are encouraged to prepare for the weather. The tour should last about an hour.

            Finally, Chief Curator Craig Wilson will lead a War of 1812 Bike Tour on Thursday, July 17 at 5:30 p.m. On this tour guests will learn more about the War of 1812 and the Battle of Mackinac Island on a guided bicycle tour to Fort Holmes and the 1814 battlefield. Tour starts at the Fort Mackinac Avenue of Flags. Guests will need to provide bicycles, and water is recommended. The tour will conclude at British Landing.

            Support for many Mackinac State Historic Parks programs comes from Mackinac Associates, friends preserving and sharing Mackinac’s heritage.

            As noted, all tours are free, but donations are welcome. Bicycle tours require guests to bring their own bicycle. A downloadable version of this release can be found here. Additional pictures available upon request. More information can be found at mackinacparks.com/events.