06/01/2026
This photograph of Grand Lake, dated October 6, 1908, is particularly noteworthy in light of the Metz Fire, which occurred just nine days later on October 15, 1908. The exact vantage point of this image remains unknown. The first fire towers, constructed by the Michigan Department of Conservation during the 1920s, played a crucial role in detecting forest fires. Notably, Eli Gilmet manned the Presque Isle Township fire tower from 1927 to 1939, vigilantly scanning the horizon for signs of smoke from his elevated post. Perhaps, the fire tower existed prior to Eli's tenure.