Book excerpt: Historic Petoskey and the greater Little Traverse Bay area possess a wealth of natural and cultural gifts. The region's virgin forests, crystal clear waters, and powerful Native American heritage inspired Henry Wadsworth Longfellow to write "The Song of Hiawatha." Its plentiful wildlife and peaceful natural settings provided Ernest Hemingway with his early hunting and fishing experiences. Abundant natural resources set the stage for industries like the fur trade, lumbering, shipping, and limestone quarrying. Petoskey's ideal location on the picturesque bay has attracted visitors and adventurers since the 1870s. In this unique volume, author C.S. Wright explores the many legacies of the Petoskey area, from the native tribes that first protected the land through the eras of industry, transportation, and tourism. A rare collection of historic postcards illustrates Petoskey's rich history, providing immaculate images of pastoral scenes, industrial achievements, striking architecture, and community development.