Wayside: The Perfect Location

"The Perfect Location" wayside sign at the Hutzler farm on South Manitou Island

Quick Facts

Location:

45° 1' 28” N, 86° 7' 40” W

Amenities

2 listed

Audio Description, Tactile Exhibit

Main Exhibit Text

In 1917, George C. Hutzler and his son, Louis, were contacted by the Michigan Agricultural College (Michigan State University) about growing Rosen rye. Its seeds produced double the yield compared to other rye varieties, but was easily cross-pollinated on the mainland, reducing its quality and profitability. Pure Rosen rye seed was needed. Isolated South Manitou Island provided the perfect location.

The first year, the Hutzlers harvested 20 bushels per acre compared to 11 of other rye varieties. Then additional island farmers grew only Rosen rye to insure its purity. The Hutzlers managed and improved Rosen rye seed, continuously winning ribbons for the best rye in the United States and Canada. Growing specialized seed crops—Rosen rye and Michelite beans—allowed some island farms to prosper, despite their remote location and small size.

Tactile Exhibit (left)

On the left side of the exhibit is a bronze tactile of Rosen rye. It includes raised letters and braille of the word “ROSEN RYE.”

Image Descriptions

Background Image

The background of this exhibit is a photograph of Rosen rye. The foreground of the image close-up golden colored rye stalks. The image fades up into a light blue sky.

Historic Photographs

Beside the tactile are two black and white historic photographs. The photo on the left shows a man standing in a field of Rosen rye. He is wearing a light-colored button-down shirt with dark pants. The rye is up to the man’s shoulders.

The photo on the right is of a man dressed in dark overalls, standing in front of a wall. On the wall above him hang numerous prize ribbons.

Caption (left)

Louis Hutzler stands in a field of prize-winning Rosen rye.

Caption (right)

George Hutzler’s Rosen rye won top prize ribbons at agricultural competitions.

Agricultural Magazine (top right)

In the top right corner is an image of an agricultural magazine. The magazine is open to a two-page spread on beans.

Caption

A 1938 co-operative extension report stated, “The Hutzlers also grow registered Michelite beans for seed. Being isolated, their crops are exceptionally free from disease.”