Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Ludington’s Historic Car Ferries at Maritime Heritage Day!
One hundred years ago, the Pere Marquette Railroad introduced the S.S. Pere Marquette 21 and S.S. Pere Marquette 22, revolutionizing the design and success of railroad car ferries. These vessels were so well-rounded in design that they set a new standard for car ferries, leading to the construction of six more ships of the same design by the Manitowoc Shipbuilding Company during the 1920s and early 1930s. This new class of ships became synonymous with the term “car ferry,” leaving a lasting legacy on the industry.
Guided Walking Tour
Start your day with a guided walking tour of Ludington’s Maritime Heritage Trail at 11:00 AM. Take a step back in time to explore the historical transformation of Ludington’s harbor and its significant impact on the community.
Special Presentation by Art Chavez
At 2:00 PM, join Maritime Historian Art Chavez for an insightful presentation on the S.S. Pere Marquette 21 and S.S. Pere Marquette 22. Discover how these iconic vessels inspired a generation of car ferries and shaped maritime history.
Live Music by Lee Murdock
Wrap up the day with an evening of live music from Lee Murdock, a renowned musician specializing in traditional and contemporary songs inspired by the Great Lakes. Enjoy his performance from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM as he brings the rich maritime culture to life through his music.
The Mason County Historical Society is a private, non-profit educational organization, formally organized on November 30, 1937.
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