South Manitou Island Schoolhouse

Built in 1899, this one-room schoolhouse served South Manitou Island children into the early 1940s. Pupils came from farming and fishing families, as well as surfmen and lighthouse keepers. I’d stop if you want a closer sense of life in the island settlement beyond its maritime landmarks.

Teachers taught grades one through eight, but the school day began with practical work: drawing water from the well, splitting firewood and lighting the stove. Myrtle Kelderhouse taught here for three years and also served as principal, nurse and custodian.

Plays, picnics and meetings brought island families together here. Children walked to school from around the island; some played in the field across the way or fished at nearby Lake Florence during recess.

Anishinabek connections to the island and surrounding area reach back thousands of years, including seasonal hunting, trade and ceremonial use. Later, farming, fishing and logging supported a year-round community. The last island family left in 1974.

This is part of a South Manitou Island visit, not a quick roadside stop. Interpretive exhibits and a picnic table make it a natural place to pause. The facade’s tall south-side windows and small bell tower are the clearest details to look for; the north wall has fewer windows. Interior access isn’t established, so check current island and building access before making a special trip.