Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum receives special Legislative Grant
Mackinaw City, MI – The Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum is pleased to announce that it is the recipient of a $ 300,000 Special Legislative Grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. The funds will support the repainting and resurfacing of the decommissioned 290’ USCGC Mackinaw WAGB83 which serves as a floating educational maritime museum in Mackinaw City.
The purpose of the project is to prevent this historically significant icon from further deterioration and restore it to a condition that will ensure its future as an educational Great Lakes maritime museum. Fundraising continues as this amount will not cover the entire project.
“The impact of this grant will be felt well beyond the Mackinaw Area” states Board member Bill Marvin. “This iconic historic ship will receive a complete exterior renovation that will bring it back to its original condition and further enhance the visitor’s experience as they explore one of the true “heroes” of WWII. One more jewel being preserved so that the many visitors from all over the world, particularly children, can sense another part of Northern Michigan history, the Great Lakes Region, and Truly “Pure Michigan”. Educational and economic benefits will be a positive for a long time to come”.
The Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum mission is to collect, preserve, protect and interpret the rich maritime and marine history of the Straits of Mackinac and the Great Lakes. The Museum features the USCGC Mackinaw WAGB-83 and the important historical and present day contributions of the US Coast Guard on the Great Lakes. The Museum presents the unique maritime history, economy and ecology of the Straits of Mackinac, the Great Lakes and the State of Michigan through engaging and entertaining educational programming and interpretive exhibits.
The MEDC strives to expand overall economic growth by serving as Michigan’s lead agency for business, talent and jobs, tourism, and more.It is the mission of the MEDC to market Michigan and provide the tools and environment to drive job creation and investment. Their vision is to transform the Michigan economy by growing and attracting business, keeping talented residents here and revitalizing our urban center.