history

The idea of Manton was started in the 1860's by a small group of men that were located around the area. At the time, Manton was a heavily wooded forest, mostly hard maple. The only semblance of a break in the woods was a narrow cut where the town was platted.

The first plat was called Cedar Creek, but the railroad company subsequently platted a tract of land adjoining the first plat and named it Manton. The railroad had already named the station Manton and soon the entire village was known by that name. The railroad plat was the first one registered (1874).

The Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad, after delays due to financial difficulties and poor management, finally reached Cadillac (known as Clam Lake then) in 1870. Construction continued to move north and within months it was completed through Manton. The station was built early in 1873.

An early newspaper account read "The town plat contains thirty acres lying on both sides of the G.R. and I.R.R. and is situated in the midst of a splendid farming country. As yet few buildings have been erected, but Mr. Manton informs us that over thirty will be erected in the spring. Good building lots are presently worth $125 to $150. A saw mill has been erected by Mr. R.W. Corson."

The Museum is open May 25th till October 5th, Wednesday – Saturday, 12 to 5 pm and on Sunday, 1 to 4 pm. The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Admission Fee: By Donations

Group tours are available, reservations are not required but are accepted.

Phone (231) 824-3208

Visit the museum website

 

 

The exhibits at the museum include features of Dutch, Swedish, and Irish. Tracing the history of early Manton from the logging industry through electrification, many artifacts pertaining to the area--including the first diesel powered generator, and an ornate horse drawn hearse. Also featured is an area dedicated to the Armed Services dating back to WWI and many other exhibits.

First Diesel Powered Generator (Museum Display)