Near Grand Marais remains of an Indian campsite were found, as well
as tools made from copper, bone and stone there. The county got its
name from Russell Alger, governor of Michigan from 1885-86. Prior to
the first white settlers, fur traders and fishermen explored the area.
Up until 1855 the Chippewa Indians had reservations on Grand Island and
in the Munising area. The American Fur Company built a post on Grand
Island in the mid 1820's. Most of Alger county land was included in the
transfer of lands by the Chippewa to the US Government in 1836. Munising
began its settlement around 1850, but the development was slow because of
the areas isolation. Today forest related industries are still a major
part of Alger county. Although noted mostly for Rentalism other industries
include farming, dairying, sand and gravel. The Hiawatha National Forest
comprises most of the County, which include many waterfalls, trout streams
and inland lakes. One of the most famous areas is the multi-colored cliffs
which span fifteen miles along Lake Superior which is known as the
Pictured Rocks National Shoreline.
