It’s curious to me that I have lived in Michigan all my life and never been to Boyne City. I’ve been all around it. Charlevoix, Petosky, Harbor Springs, Gaylord, Traverse City, even ski trips to Boyne Highlands. 

But never Boyne City even though it is smack dab in the middle of what we call “Up North.” 

I recently got invited to a group of friends weekend in Boyne City. The hosts  have a place there. What fun and a surprise. 

First, do note the location.  It is at the east end of Lake Charlevoix, the site of gorgeous homes, great boating and a charming town on the west end of the  lake.  It is a small town with a year around population of 3,500. 

I was curious about the history and learned that it was settled in 1856 by John and Harriet Millers, who named it for the area they came from in Ireland.  River Boyne in Leinster County, Ireland.

Over time the city was known for logging,  manufacturing  and eventually, now tourism. 

So, what did I experience?

It is a  charming little town with a mix of architecture nestled into the end of the lake. Some of the older buildings have been repurposed. 

Farmer’s Market

We, headed to the Farmer’s Market on Saturday morning. It was the typical mix of crafts and food and lively people.  Our friend noted that it was 1/10th its normal size. Hmmm.  Maybe we should come back in the summer? 

I got a kick out of watching guys fish along the lake front. This fellow got one I think.  

Shopping and Eating

There’s always shopping and dining in these kinds of towns and Boyne City is no exception. I felt like it was a little miscellaneous and some stores were closing but all good. Maybe better in the summer.

Music and Art

I loved this one. Music and Art. What I saw made me think that art was an interesting concept and we did go to a concert. Felt very homegrown and from the heart. 

Later the next day I saw the female singer from the previous night’s performance  and got a kick out of her Mohawk hair cut.  

Halloween in BOYNE CITY

It was just before Halloween so, of course, we saw decorations. Some quite clever and clearly home made. I like them better than so many of the blow up kind you see today on front yards.  

It’s fall so I’d be remiss in not posting a few “fall color” images. It’s what we Michiganders are very proud of.  We have a terrific fall season. It’s always good and when the sun comes out and shines on the golds, oranges, reds and yellows it is magical.  

And of course, a few reflections got into the mix.  

If you want to know more,  there is a book called “Settlers to Sidewalks” by BOYNE CITY Historian Bob Morgridge.

The last photo is some  of the members of our group. Look at it closely to see what has us perplexed.    We’re all wondering how this image was developed. This is straight out of the iPhone camera.   No photoshopping.