GLENN, MICHIGAN

Glenn was first settled in 1843. Before 1876 this area was known by many names, including Packard's Corner and New Casco. Glenn has been used since 1856. As the land was cleared, crops and orchards were planted. Shipping became necessary, so piers were built out into the lake. The boats that carried fruit into the cities would bring vacation-bound passengers on the return trip. The resort business increased and Glenn grew rapidly. By 1897 the community had developed enough to support three grocery stores, a drug store, a meat market, two blacksmiths, a barber shop, two hotels, and several other businesses. During the 1920's truck transportation replaced the need for the piers. The blizzard of 1937 established Glenn as a community filled with hospitality. Travelers who were marooned in Glenn spread the word about this area=s people and warmth. A pancake festival was set up to celebrate the blizzard that next spring. This festival continued until 1941, when World War II forced its cancellation. The festival was revived in the 1960's and continues today. Since the construction of Interstate 196 rerouted traffic, Glenn saw a decline in tourism during the 1960's. The resort businesses were gone and life styles were changed forever.