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Sleeping Bear Dunes National LakeshoreEckhert House
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Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Eckhert Farm

The Eckhert Farm is located at the corner of Kelderhouse Road and Basch Road.

Henry and Catherine Eckhert immigrated from Bohemia to the U.S. between 1850 and 1855, arriving in Michigan in 1857.  In 1862, the Eckherts purchased and settled on their farm in Port Oneida.  Their original log cabin is now owned by the A.I.R. Foundation and has been moved from its original location near the farm.  Mr. Eckhert was listed as a farmer as early as 1860 on the manuscript schedules for the federal population census.  Henry's brother, George was married to Catherine's sister Mary, and they farmed on Baker Road just northwest of this farm.  There are no buildings remaining at George's farm.  Catherine served Port Oneida and the surrounding area as a midwife.

Their farm has been described as an "excellent example of an historical farm" and was the site of many dances enjoyed by community residents.  The Baurs bought the farm around 1940 - 1950.

 
Eckhert Farm
Kerry Kelly 2005
Eckhert Farm

According to Elsa Eckhert Barriner, her father, Henry Eckhert Jr., grew corn, potatoes, and a variety of grains.  The family also raised cows, pigs, chickens, and ducks.

 
 
Cannery Boat Museum  

Did You Know?
The Great Lakes was the highway of the past. It was the main way that cargo and passengers moved through this area until roads were established. A variety of boats used on the Great Lakes are on display at the Cannery in Glen Haven within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
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Last Updated: August 21, 2006 at 19:32 EST