Michigan's Frankenmuth

FIFTEEN German immigrants from Franconia, Bavaria, led by the Rev. August Craemer, founded Frankenmuth, Michigan in 1845. They were advised to settle in that part of the state by the Rev. Frederick Schmid, a Lutheran pastor of Ann Arbor's German colony founded in the 1820's. Other German agricultural villages were founded in the Saginaw Valley in the 1840's and the 1850's. In Frankenmuth, as in many other areas of Michigan, German settlers have contributed greatly to the state's cultural heritage. (Adapted from the sign at right.)

Today, that heritage is robustly celebrated in the quaint city of Frankenmuth with an estimated population of just over 5,000. Over half of the local citizens have German ancestry.

The city's name originally meant "courage of the Franconians," because their purpose was to be a mission post for spreading Christianity to the Chippewa Tribe. Now, the city's nickname is "Little Bavaria," or just simply "Muth."

Tourism is the driving force of the local economy. The city welcomes over 3,000,000 visitors every year. However, in addition, farming is extremely important to the city, township, and county as well.

Numerous Bavarian-themed shops and restaurants can be found on the city's main streets and near the banks of the Cass River. Also, a riverboat, the "Bavarian Belle," operates cruises on the Cass during warm-weather months.

Among the favorite stops for visitors are the Bavarian Inn, Zehnder's (famous for their chicken dinners), and Bronner's Christmas Wonderland (called "The World's Largest Christmas Store" - and open year-round!). The sign in front of  Zehnder's is the oldest neon sign in the United States.

Out-of-towners, as well as locals, enjoy Frankenmuth festivals throughout the year. Included are the World Expo of Beer, Dog Bowl, Regional Hot Air Balloon Championships, Bavarian Fest, Summer Music Fest, Oktoberfest, and Snowfest. Heritage Park is an ideal spot for festival activities.

Decades ago my parents were in Frankenmuth and came home bragging about it. This past summer, through the courtesy of dear friends, I was there with my wife and the two of them. It was fantastic - even better than I had dreamed. The whole experience was beyond my expectations: the chicken at Zehnder's; the shops; the boat ride; a root beer float; the exciting atmosphere of the town and it's people; the gigantic Christmas store; and sweet fellowship with friends.

Now, I am tooting my horn about Frankenmuth!  And, I sincerely believe you would too.