Monday, March 02, 2026

the first roadside rest stop, might be in the county next to the one I grew up in, the county border line is actually walking distance, from where I grew up. In 1918, Iron County had the 1st roadside rest stop in Michigan


In 1919 (sometimes cited as 1918), Iron County, Michigan, established the nation's first roadside park and rest stop along Highway US-2, between Iron River and Crystal Falls. Created by engineer Herbert Larson, it featured picnic tables in a forested area, serving as a model for future highway infrastructure.

this pioneering rest stop was situated on a 320-acre tract of virgin timber in Bates Township, Iron County. 

Built to provide a resting place for travelers. 

It is recognized as the first official roadside park in the United States.


In another county in Michigan, they made the 1st picnic table for roadside parks

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2 comments:

  1. Oldtom92:35 PM

    Nice history unknown to me heretofore. Thanks.

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    Replies
    1. Jesse7:56 PM

      hey, honestly, it was news to me too! That's what motivates me to post stuff, that it's news to me and it's interesting history stuff. Plus with these two Michigan 1sts, it's a bit of home state pride. It was a surprise that the first rest stop was only in the next county from where I grew up, I know I must have ridden past it as a kid.

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