History

History of Manitowish Waters

Manitowish Waters has a rich history from our early Indigenous People, the logging drives, the railroads, fishing, the cranberry bogs, the infamous John Dillinger and much more.

The first inhabitants arrived about 10,000 years ago, with numerous indigenous cultures calling this chain of lakes home. The Lake Superior Ojibwa won the region from the Dakota Sioux in battle around 1745 and sought comfort on the eastern shores of Manitowish and Rest lakes.

Next to settle in the area were loggers who used the chain of lakes to float logs to sawmills. By 1887, a dam was built to hold lake waters in place to assist in logging and river driving. Remnants of the logging era are discoverable today below Rest Lake Dam and at the bottom of our lakes.

Beginning early in the 20th century, vacationers began to discover what is today Manitowish Waters, drawn to the area by the serenity, abundant fish and game, and access to pristine lakes and streams. Lodges began popping up, and some of the original buildings are still standing today.

Manitowish Waters has always been a home to travelers yearning to escape the roaring city life. This year, we invite you to slow down and take in all the beauty life has to offer. Share moments, share your path, and come make your own history that will last a lifetime.