Northern Information Sights: Iosco County Historical Museum

The building that houses the museum was initially a residence built by James W. Hawks in 1903. His daughter and son-in-law occupied the house until 1912 when Lloyd G. McKay purchased the home and in turn occupied it until 1972.

In 1977, Iosco County purchased the home from the late McKay and donated it to the Iosco County Historical Society with the aim of providing a museum site.

Generous donations, like that from Joseph Barkman, who gave $10 000 to initiate the incentive as well as additional help from the Tawas Area Kiwanis in so far as obtaining grant money, ensured the establishment of the museum.

Today, the exhibits contained pay homage to the founding people, their lifestyles and original industries that shaped and developed Northeast Michigan. They include tools, archives and artifacts pertaining to logging, fishing, railroad, military, glass negatives and family portraits, Victorian dress and Native American antiquities. An adjacent garage houses various modes of transportation and agricultural implements.

A visit to the museum is well worthwhile if you wish to gain an insight into what was utilized, what transpired in bygone days, and learn about the history of the people who carved an existence through, and out of, an otherwise inhospitable wilderness.

The museum is located at 405 West Bay Street (US 23) in East Tawas, next to East Tawas City Park and tours are available upon request. Doors open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm.

For more information please call (989)362-8911