George Conrad Hutzler Farm

Hutzler's machine shed

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George Conrad Hutzler, George Johann Hutzler's half brother, came to the island at his brother's suggestion. George Conrad had a son in 1872, also named George. Little did he realize at that time that through his son and grandson's efforts, the island would become internationally famous in agricultural circles.

George Conrad, Jr, with his son Louis, cultivated a highly productive variety of rye seed, called Rosen Rye, that became the standard in American rye farming. The seed is thought to have come from a Russian student at Michigan State University-apparently, it was a staple in his cold homeland. Rosen Rye increased rye yields threefold, but it needed to grow in isolation, lest it mingle and cross-pollinate, as it would on the mainland. South Manitou Island became the perfect place for cultivation.

The Rosen Rye seed grown by the Hutzlers won blue ribbons at the Chicago Hay & Grain Show for a few successive years. Father and son would spend the winter sitting at the table in the kitchen with a knife and pick out the best seeds of the Rosen Rye they had grown during the summer. Some of the best seeds were planted in rows and cultivated like corn and other crops. All the farmers on the island participated in the planting and raising of the Rosen Rye.

The Hutzlers and other island farmers also worked with Michigan State on the development of the Michelite Bean, which also became a national standard.

The Hutlzers were very hard workers, and their house was always neat and clean-even the barn and machinery. George did most of the calling at square dances that were held on the island during the winter on Saturday nights. And George and Louis were considered to be the best moonshine makers on the island; in fact, they took much pride in whatever they did.