Elk
Rapids is located in northern Michigan, on the east side of Grand
Traverse Bay. These early photos show the importance of the Chain of
Lakes for Elk Rapids' economy and growth. In the beginning the
"Chain" was a source of water power for creating pig iron,
producing chemicals, lumbering and farming. Today it is the center of
Elk Rapids' tourist industry.
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on a photo to view a larger image.
Elk
Rapids Iron Company Dock, 1888
"Muskie"
caught on Elk Lake
Ladies
roasting potatoes on Elk River
The
"Ol' Swimmin' Hole" on Elk River
Sign
posted on south side of town to welcome tourists
Elk
Rapids Iron Company Smelting Furnace and Chemical Plant on Elk River
The
sand dunes were a great place for kids to play, but were a menace to
some villagers because drifting sand would cover roads and buildings.
Map
of the Chain of Lakes
The
raft of logs would be towed by tugs down the Chain of Lakes to the Elk
Rapids Iron Company's saw mill.
During
the winter, logs were moved by horse and sled to the sawmill.
