Welcome to the Alpena Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, your gateway to exploring the wonders of Alpena, Michigan. This region, often referred to as the ‘Sanctuary of the Great Lakes,’ is steeped in rich history and natural beauty. The area’s history is intricately tied to the Great Lakes, which have been central to its development and identity.
The story of Alpena begins long before it was officially recognized as a city. Originally inhabited by Indigenous peoples, notably the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi tribes, the region was a thriving area for fishing, hunting, and trade. In the 18th century, European explorers and fur traders began to arrive, drawn by the region’s abundant natural resources.
Alpena was officially founded in 1840, originally under the name Fremont, but it was renamed Alpena in 1857, reflecting the area’s picturesque, alpine-like landscape. The name ‘Alpena’ is believed to have been derived from a Native American word meaning ‘a good partridge country.’
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Alpena flourished as a lumbering town, with its shores bustling with sawmills and ships exporting timber. This era of economic prosperity was driven by figures like George Fletcher Lewis, a pivotal figure in the lumber industry who played a significant role in shaping the town’s economy and infrastructure.
The town’s evolution continued as it transitioned from a lumbering hub to an industrial center. The 20th century saw the rise of cement manufacturing, with the establishment of the Huron Portland Cement Company, now known as Lafarge, which remains a key part of Alpena’s economy.
Alpena is also home to the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, a testament to the area’s maritime history. The sanctuary protects one of America’s best-preserved collections of shipwrecks, offering a glimpse into the past for divers and historians alike.
Today, the Alpena Area Convention & Visitors Bureau serves as the epicenter for promoting tourism and highlighting the region’s historical and natural attractions. Whether you’re interested in exploring the past through its shipwrecks, enjoying the breathtaking natural landscapes, or discovering the stories of those who shaped the region, Alpena offers a rich tapestry of experiences waiting to be uncovered.
