There are wonderful tales to be told in Old Towne – what was known for 100 years simply as “the South Side.” Local author Marty MacLeod takes you back in time to rediscover this lively neighborhood, from grain and lumber mills to the iconic Wilhelm’s and Brady’s to the Pere Marquette train station and roundhouse. Along the way, she’ll introduce you to cigar-rollers and saloon keepers, car-makers and casket-makers, ice-cutters, candy-girls, and “bombshells.” It’s all part of Old Towne’s fascinating story.

This 1.7-mile tour starts (and ends) at Perry Hannah’s statue on the NW corner of Union & Sixth Streets. The terrain is flat, but we really will be All Over Old Towne for about 2 hours, so wear comfortable shoes. Bring water if it’s hot, sunscreen if there’s a chance of sun, and lots of questions no matter the weather!

No reservations are required, but please arrive by 9:15 am for check-in and to sign the liability waiver.

Suggested donation is $15/person, with all proceeds going to the Traverse Area Historical Society.