LANSING – The House recently adopted a resolution proposed by State Representative Gary McDowell (D-Rudyard) naming Whitefish Point the cranberry capital of Michigan.
"Whitefish Point has been the center of cranberry production in Michigan for over 100 years and at one time was home to the only cranberry farm in the state," McDowell said. "I am delighted to honor this community for making our state an important part of the cranberry industry and creating jobs for Michigan workers."
Whitefish Point is the site of Michigan's only historic cranberry farm, Centennial Cranberry Farm, established in 1876 with land purchased from the United States government by John Clarke. In the late 19th century, 18 farms in the area shipped cranberries to destinations around the Midwest such as Chicago and St. Louis.
"We are very honored and grateful to receive this award from the State and I'm hoping it will bring a real boost to our local economy," said Sharon House, owner of Centennial Cranberry Farm. "The farm has been in my husband's family for years and I know his parents and grandparents, the previous owners, would be just as proud as we are."
Whitefish Point's location on Lake Superior, with an abundance of freshwater and acidic soil, has provided an ideal growing environment for cranberries. The community produces over 80 tons of cranberries every year to be sold nationwide as preserves, juices, raw fruits, and even wine. Over the past few years, cranberry production has steadily increased on a national level, reaching record highs in 2004.
"I am pleased to be able to honor Whitefish Point's rich agricultural heritage in cranberries," McDowell said. "It is very important to recognize and celebrate the community's integral role in this thriving agricultural market."