A F I R S T-H A N D DI SPAT CH F ROM T H E D OCK S
SHARING THIS SENSE-OF-PLACE
Anyone who has ever walked the weathered docks of Fishtown knows this place is truly something special. The small plot of shanties, smokehouses and commercial vessels—with its collection of colorful characters—is one of the few remaining mainstays of Michigan maritime authenticity. It’s a working waterfront where shopkeepers, fishermen and families, all connect in a simple pursuit—to soak up some genuine Great Lakes vitality. Family memories are made here. Dan Miller—Fishtown’s shanty handyman— and his children (pictured here) spend some spare time strolling this maritime treasure. (Cover photo: Fourth-generation fisherman, Joel Petersen, fishes Joy. )
Looking ahead by looking back, visionary Judy Fisher Oetinger, with her husband Tom, were early supporters and are Personal Anchors of Fishtown’s historic preservation efforts.
MARITIME SPIRIT WORTH SAVING
In 2006, Fishtown faced physical and financial challenges—the aged structures were sinking into disrepair, commercial fishing operations had been halted and the Carlson family made preparations to put their waterfront plot up for sale. Enter the Fishtown Preservation Society, a band of passionate Leland supporters with a central mission: Save Fishtown! In 2007, after an ambitious capital campaign, these minutemen (and women) of maritime preservation prevailed and purchased the property— averting it from potential real estate development.
david kareck, cheese shanty merchant & business anchor
CHARTING A NEW COURSE
Efforts since the 2007 purchase have been ambitious. With ongoing financial support from businesses, foundations and families, the Joy and Janice Sue, decades old fish tugs, have been restored. Today, Joel Petersen, a fourth-generation commercial fisherman, is proudly working the waters of the Manitou Passage. Dave ditched his day-trading job in Chicago for the dream of crafting his own destiny—and sandwiches. He discovered that destiny on the docks of Fishtown.
Merchants like Dave Kareck, owner of the Village Cheese Shanty, are benefitting from building improvements and increased visits from folks seeking the authentic experience that Fishtown offers. Beyond buildings, community confidence is being restored, too. Leelanau businesses and residents are realizing the importance of keeping Fishtown on solid footings for the future.
Fine artist David Grath arrived in 1958 and spent a year as a young artist living in a 8' x 12' shanty. He has been capturing Fishtown by brush ever since.
Few places are more authentic and charming than Fishtown. It’s crucial that we preserve this living link to Great Lakes heritage and ensure accessibility for future generations. Our goal is to buoy financial support for the ongoing viability of this maritime treasure. Please consider making a financial gift to Fishtown Preservation.
YOUR FINANCIAL SUPPORT WILL:
· Preserve and protect Fishtown · Keep the Joy and Janice Sue actively fishing · Support educational programming · Contribute to matching grants · Offset annual operational costs · Pay off the mortgage
THREE WAYS TO GIVE
JOIN OUR ANCHOR PROGRAM
Supporters who pledge to make an annual gift are Fishtown Anchors. Anchor funds are earmarked to offset annual operational expenses. Anchor levels start at $250 for businesses and $500 for individuals and families. HELP US NET FUNDS
One-time gifts to Fishtown Preservation can be allocated to annual operations, mortgage retirement, endowment, ongoing preservation, restoration efforts and matching grants. Gifts are welcome in any amount. GET INVOLVED
Volunteers are a valued link to our community. From maintenance and restoration projects to special events and fundraising—volunteer opportunities are memorable and many. Individuals and groups welcome. CALL 231.256.8878 OR GO ONLINE TO FISHTOWNMI.ORG TO LEARN MORE.
TO PRESERVE FISHTOWN RESTORE THE SHANTIES PAY OFF THE MORTGAGE RAISE OPERATING FUNDS FOR MAINTENANCE OF SHANTIES AND TUGS
DONATE 60¢ Preservation & Restoration
17¢
Operations
15¢
Admin
7¢
1¢
Events Fundraising
77%
$100
$250
TODAY
231.256.8878 FISHTOWNMI.ORG
of every dollar is devoted directly to preservation efforts and operational expenses like utilities and repairs.
will replace a shanty
$2,500
will update the wiring in a shanty
will help us repair a worn
$5,000
will replace dilapidated doors and windows in a shanty
light fixture
spot on a shanty roof
$500
will help maintain the Joy and Janice Sue
$1,000
will replace rotted trim and boards on a shanty
$10,000 will
help us match foundation/government grant requirements
Fishtown Preservation Society, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is made up of dedicated staff and community volunteers who have come together to preserve and protect Fishtown. PO BOX 721 | 203 E CEDAR ST | LELAND, MI 49654 | 231 . 256 . 8878 FISHTOWNMI.ORG