Chapter 5

Island of the giant fairies -- Possession by the English -- Erection of government house -- French remain at Old Mackinaw -- Finally abandoned -- Extent of the island -- History -- Description -- Natural curiosities -- Arch Rock -- Sugar Loaf Rock -- Scull Rock -- Dousman's farm -- Davenport's farm -- Robinson's folly -- The Devil's Punch Bowl -- Healthful atmosphere -- Transparency of the waters -- Compared with Saratoga, Cape May, and Mt. Washington as a point for health and recreation -- Description of a traveler in 1854 -- Arrival of steamers and sailing vessels at the port during the year -- Mr. Johnson's reminiscences -- Indian name of island -- Mythology -- Three brothers of the great genii -- Visit to the subterranean abode of the genii -- Vision -- Apostrophe of an old Indian chief -- Old buildings -- Door of Marquette's chapel -- John Jacob Astor and the fur trade -- Present support of the place -- Fort Mackinaw -- Fort Holmes -- Fine view -- Interesting localities -- War of 1812 -- Death of Major Holmes -- Soil of the island. 83