...and Fort Hosts All American Holiday

Melanie Couch of Lennard (foreground) and Mitchell and CaryAnn Piazza of Clarkston learn some tricks from historic interpreters. The children later learned the Hoopla Dance to celebrate getting a ball in the stick.

Workers and visitors alike said, “Don’t rain on my parade” when light rain threatened picnickers and the special Independence Day presentation at Fort Mackinac. Events went off as planned, however, despite the brief shower.

Those visiting the fort enjoyed a barbecue-style picnic on the Fort Mackinac parade ground while Alex Graham and Grand Hotel musicians performed patriotic music.

The Hillert Family of Livonia has been coming up to Mackinac every summer. This was their first Fourth of July spent on the Island, however, and they said it’s been one of the best they have celebrated. From left, Raina, Lawne, Noelle, and Kendra Hillert enjoy the American Picnic at Fort Mackinac.

Later in the evening, historic interpreters brought out a box of Victorian-style toys and children and adults enjoyed learning the ropes of old games, and young and old joined together for a Rose Dance. Five-year-olds joined with 60-year-olds to chassé down the rows of clapping participants.

Guests and interpreters line up for a Rose Dance on the parade ground. A rose was exchanged between partners before chasséing down the line.

Historic interpreters also gave music and marching performances. As Trace Dominguez performed the “Star-Spangled Banner” on the fife, Boy Scouts raised the large garrison flag above the fort.

The evening was capped off with a 38-round salute, with one rifle shot dedicated to each state that was in the union in the 1880s, the period now depicted for visitors to the fort.

Boy Scouts raised the garrison flag in honor of Independence Day while those gathered below joined in singing the “Star-Spangled Banner.”

Seven of Fort Mackinac’s historic interpreters lined up to deliver a 38-round salute. Guests were encouraged to plug their ears as the soldiers honored the states of the union.