DeTour Passage Historical Museum

Opposite the ferry dock, this small museum has a little bit of everything about DeTour: pioneer farming, Native American history, early local institutions, and, of course, the ferry and other local marine operations. Its pride: the big Third Order Fresnel lens from the DeTour Reef Lighthouse.

This is a museum without interpretation unless you think to ask Elna Van Houten. Then you'll get some stories—about the assumed connection between dolomite and local longevity, and about puddingstones (many examples of it, also called "jasper conglomerate," are here), and about the DeTour Upbeats. Elna herself played in that teapot and kazoo band. "We went everywhere. We played for a thousand people at the Soo. We played for busloads of [Domino Pizza magnate] Tom Monaghan's guests. Some said it was the highlight of their trip."

104 Elizabeth St. From M-134 as it comes into town, look for the sign down to the ferry. (906) 297-3404. Open Mem. to Labor Day 1-5, except Sat noon-5.

Return to De Tour Village

DE TOUR VILLAGE
POINTS OF INTEREST

De Tour Reef Light Tours. Guarding the DeTour Passage where ships enter the St. Mary's River, this large lighthouse surrounded by water can be toured by charter boat from Drummond Island. Climb to the top for a great view of the shipping channel ... more

DeTour beach, picnic and cross-country ski area. A diverse natural area without crowds or traffic: miles of beach, sandy and rocky; low dunes; mature white pine forest. ... more

Timberdoodle Mercantile. Seven owners shop for unusual & useful things to fill this 2-story house. You'll find every thing from party supplies to Polish pottery, books, & condiments ... more

Bailey Roadside Park. A beautiful sandy beach and shady picnic area with nice views of Lake Huron and, at night, the Martin Reef Light. ... more

DeTour Passage Historical Museum. Though small, it covers a broad gamut of DeTour history, from the native Indians, pioneer farming, and the old lighthouse to the ferry ... more

Dr. Shula F. Giddens Memorial Gardens. Watch occasional freighters from this sunny, well-landscaped park ... more

Caribou Lake beach. This sandy uncrowded beach is an oasis among most rocky shoreline ... more

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