McGulpin House

McGulpin House is a residence built from white pine logs with dovetailed corners and a bark roof on Mackinac Island. Its exterior walls feature hand-sawn clapboarding that gives the structure its distinctive character.

Construction took place in the early 1790s when the region was shaped by French Canadian craftspeople. William and Madeline McGulpin acquired the house later and operated a bakery there supplying the American Fur Company.

The house displays building materials and construction methods used by French Canadian workers of the late 18th century. The craftsmanship and spatial design offer insight into how this community lived day to day.

The house sits at the corner of Fort Street and Market Street and is open to visitors during summer months. Check with Mackinac Island State Park for current visiting conditions before making the trip.

Scientists determined the exact construction period through dendroarchaeology and wood analysis. This method reveals that the building was erected between 1790 and 1791, making it a rare time capsule of French Canadian craftsmanship.

Location: Michigan

GPS coordinates: 45.85060,-84.61760

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:44