Fireman's Memorial
Another cool Michigan Day Trip.
The
Fireman’s Memorial is in a park-like setting just south of
Roscommon, Michigan about ½ mile east of M-18. The site is
dominated by a sculpture. Standing twelve feet tall and
weighing around 2,000 pounds, the bronze firefighter honors
the sacrifice of Michigan firefighters. The statue was
created by Michigan craftsman Edward Chesney. For more than
40 years, on the 3rd weekend in September, the Michigan
Firemen's Memorial Festival takes place over 3 days. The
festival isn't just for firemen. Other first responders who
have given their lives are memorialized as well. The grounds
include picnic and play areas, several family-oriented
activities are part of the event.
The Fireman’s Memorial is dedicated to the members of that
unselfish organization of men and women who hold devotion to
duty above personal risk, who count sincerity of service
above personal comfort and convenience, and who strive
unceasingly to find better ways of protecting the lives,
homes, and property of their fellow citizens from the
ravages of fire and other disasters. If you visit this
memorial on a weekday like I did, you may find that you are
the only person there. I am willing to bet that you can't
visit this spot without a big lump forming in your throat.
There is another attraction nearby that is often overlooked.
Lansing Road is a designated Natural Beauty Road. The drive
passes through one of the largest stands of White Bark Birch
trees in the lower peninsula of Michigan. It is a beautiful
drive any time of year but is best during color tour season.
Natural Beauty Roads are scarce. Under the Natural Beauty
Road Act of 1994, a road can be given the “Natural Beauty”
designation for having “unusual or outstanding natural
beauty”. The designation can also preserve the road from
further development.
Note: Parts of Lansing Road are gravel.
The Firemans Memorial is a "must see" Michian back roads day trip.
The monthly newsletter is published on the 1st of each month and is delivered by email, www.travelinmichigan.com .
The monthly newsletter is published on the 1st of each month and is delivered by email, www.travelinmichigan.com .
The monthly newsletter is published on the 1st of each month and is delivered by email, www.travelinmichigan.com .
