Michigan’s ‘ghost counties’ tell stories of boom, bust and power

During the mid-and late-1800s, Michigan briefly created counties in remote parts of the state as settlement spread.

By: Janelle D. James

Outlets: Bridge Michigan

Published: March 16, 2026

Words: 822

Last Updated: 3 days, 21 hours ago

Two Michigan counties were established during the 19th century, but were later absorbed by other counties
Manitou County was created in 1855 by politician and religious leader James Jesse Strang but fell into disarray following his death
The remote island of Isle Royale was once its own county, created solely for the production of copper

For 135 years, one thing has remained unchanged in Michigan, and that’s its 83 counties — stretching …

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