Michigan City

Nestled on the southern-most shores of the Great Lakes, Michigan City was established in 1836. An abundance of pine and hardwoods gave rise to a thriving lumber industry, and by the end of the century, Michigan City was one of the largest lumber markets in the state. The city’s harbor and the arrival of the railroad brought new industry, from the manufacture of rail cars to glassmaking and flour mills. Michigan City even pitted itself against Chicago in a race to become the major port on Lake Michigan. The early twentieth century saw a rise in tourism as lakefront attractions sprang up. Excursionists arrived by boat and train for bathing, shooting galleries, a merry-go-round and roller coaster, and the Oasis Ballroom. As a result of the city’s dune preservation efforts in the 1960s and 1970s, the city continues as a haven for water sports and a resort for Chicagoans and others in the Midwest.