Anyone can read about the history of a town, but here in Ludington, our history is displayed in a unique and rather large manner. Within the downtown region, nine murals grace the façade of local businesses, and two more murals are found just outside of town.

Since 2003, the Ludington Mural Society has captured the story of Ludington, from its early lumbering industry to notable residents to its beloved carferries. In the past five years, 11 murals have been painted by nine different artists, giving Ludington a very interesting character. The murals are even interactive—there is a hidden object in each one that the artist challenges you to find!

Lumbering at Ludington, 1879—305 E. Ludington Ave.
This honors early lumbermen and the lumbering era from 1849-1917.

Reverend John Christensen—110 W. Ludington Ave.
Reverend John emigrated to the U.S. from Denmark at age 20, and touched the lives of Mason County residents for 65 years.

Freedom Festival—111. W. Ludington Ave.
July 4th has been celebrated in Ludington since 1874, and this mural depicts scenes from the Freedom Festival through the years.

First Snow—201 S. Rath Ave.
This mural represents the abundant wildlife found in this area of Michigan, and the wish for preserving animals habitat for years to come.

Ludington’s Own—301 S. James St.
This honors two Ludington residents who have been recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor, Charles DePuy and William Charette.

Father Marquette—323 S. James St.
Father Jacques Marquette is a well known French missionary from the 17th century. On his way to St. Ignace, he was brought ashore near the present site of Ludington. A shrine in the form of a cross marks that very spot where Father Marquette died.

Hamlin Nostalgia—3611 N. Jebavy Dr.
After damming Big Sable Lake, it was renamed Hamlin Lake, after Abraham Lincoln's Vice-President, Hannibal Hamlin. This mural follows the history of Hamlin Lake, from its lumbering days to the recreational paradise it has now become.

Ludington's Fountain of Youth—301 N. Rath Ave.
Appropriately placed, this is a painting of William Rath, a former mayor of Ludington and one of its most exemplary residents. He is shown drinking from a "Fountain of Youth," something that was in vogue in the late 1800's.

Ludington, A Place for All Seasons—4079 W. US-10.
The title says it all, as Ludington is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing, hunting, swimming, skating, snowshoeing—it's available all four seasons for people of all ages.

Saputo's Italian Market—103 W. Ludington Ave.
In honor of Frank Saputo and his sisters, Jennie and Rose. They ran a typical market, where the produce was supplied from local growers. It's been said that zucchini came to Mason County courtesy of the Saputo family.

Untitled-217 E. Ludington Ave.
This mural is a collage of scenes from the carferry era. At one time, Ludington was home port to six carferries. Now there is only one, the S.S. Badger, which crosses Lake Michigan every day during the summer to Manitowoc, Wisconsin.

S.S. Badger Mural-322 W. Ludington Ave.
The newest mural, and perhaps the most unique, shows the S.S. Badger carferry sailing by the Ludington North Pierhead Light (IF you look at it from the right!) It has a "louvred" effect, so if you look at it from the left, it looks as if you're peeking through "doors."

Visit www.ludingtonmurals.org for more information and maps.

More of Ludington's Very Own...

Lakeshore Parrothead Club - This lively group of characters promote friendship and raise money annually for the Alzheimers Association.
Friday Night Live - Held four consecutive Friday nights in late July and early August, it features food, music, and entertainment.
Baby Badger - This miniature replica of the S.S. Badger carferry is a welcome sight at Ludington's summer events.
James Ludington - The founder of this lakeshore city never actually resided here, but contributed greatly to its growth.
Ludington's Freedom Festival - Held during July 4th, it's one of the great, old fashioned festivals, complete with parade and fireworks.
Ludington Lakestride - Every June, runners and walkers take place in this popular race, which runs through the Ludington State Park.
The Colorful Murals of Ludington - Take a walking tour of Ludington and view the beautiful murals that adorn area businesses, each telling its story of Ludington's history.
Ludington Pumped Storage Project - Built in 1973, this 842 acre reservoir can generate up to 1,872 megawatts of electricity.
Waterfront Park - Set between the city's two marinas, this park features a playground, sculptures, tables, and a great view of the carferry.
Scottville Clown Band - These zany group of professionals are known throughout the country for their comedy and their musical ability.
The Sculptures of Waterfront Park - Eight unique sculptures are scattered throughout the park, which reflect Ludington's history.
Western Michigan Fair - Mason County's fair, held near the end of July, features a midway, harness horse racing, and 4-H displays.
Historic White Pine Village - Various buildings from Mason County's past are set upon 23 acres that overlook Lake Michigan.
Ludington Area Center for the Arts - Now settled into an historic church in the downtown area, it's the venue for writer's workshops, concerts, and classes.
Sandcastles Children's Museum - This summer museum attracts thousands each summer, with interesting exhibits and programs for kids of all ages.
Father Jacques Marquette Shrine - This white cross that overlooks Lake Michigan marks the spot where Father Marquette died in 1675.