The fur trade powered the economy of the Great Lakes for nearly two centuries, and voyageurs were the engine that drove the fur trade. Paddling canoes and boats across the Great Lakes watershed, voyageurs connected indigenous and European communities, facilitating an exchange of goods but also of ideas and cultures. Thanks to their challenging work conditions, as well as their links to the Anishnaabek and other indigenous groups, voyageurs created their own unique subculture as well, complete with modes of dress, food, and social elements. This presentation will discuss and demonstrate the unique jobs and culture of the voyageurs.    

This lecture will take place at the Harbor Springs History Museum beginning at 5:30 pm. We recommend arriving by at least 5:15 pm to grab some coffee and cookies before heading to the second floor for the lecture itself. Please call 231-526-9771 with questions.

Craig Wilson is the chief curator for Mackinac State Historic Parks, where he supervises museum operations. He previously served as curator of history and museum historian.

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To register: Choose the number of attendees (1, 2, etc.) from the dropdown box next under either “Register” or “Register & Donate.” Hit “Submit.” On the next screen scroll down until you see the “Pay Now” button and click it. We use Paypal as our payment processing software, but you do not need a Paypal account to pay. Simply choose the “Pay with Debit or Credit Card” option and follow the prompts. Call 231-526-9771 with questions.