Visit the Museum
North of East Jordan on M-66 where Monroe Creek winds its way to the South Arm of Lake Charlevoix stands a lovely park, Elm Pointe. Elm Pointe was part of the original holdings of the East Jordan Lumber Company, owned by the Porter family. The house was constructed of lumber milled by the Company and provided a showcase for the company’s products when the Porters entertained. The estate was purchased by Mr. and Mrs. Robert W. Allen in 1942 for use as a summer home. The Allens later built the lodge to provide for a garage and upstairs studio space. The property was donated to the City of East Jordan in 1972 and in 1999 was designated as Michigan Historic Site #2004.
The seasonal Elm Pointe museum and Cygred Riley Purchase Prize gallery is currently closed. It will be open during the Portside Art Fair.
The Society’s “It’s History” Museum is located in the Masonic Building in downtown East Jordan. Enter through the East Jordan City Hall Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (when not closed due to pandemic regulations) and take a self guided tour into East Jordan’s past. In 2020, the museum was updated with fresh paint, new carpet and lighting and new displays were created.
Admission to either museum is free. Donations, however, are appreciated as the Art Fair and visitor donations provide the majority of financial support for the Historical Society.
East Jordan is a vibrant, modern town with strong historical pride. We welcome everyone to learn more about us and make us an annual destination.
Books For Sale
The society has several publications available for purchase.
“East Jordan Remembers”, A collection of stories about East Jordan’s past (108 pages), has been reprinted through a generous donation from the Charlevoix County Community Foundation.
“The Business Interests of William Pitt Porter in East Jordan, MI” by Paul Bowen (113 pages), was made possible thorough a generous donation from the Porter family.
Both soft cover books are $15.00 each or together for $20. Copies may be purchased at the East Jordan Chamber of Commerce office at 100 Main Street.