Museum To Receive Grant for Icebreaker Mackinaw

The Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum is poised to receive a large challenge grant to help fund operations at the floating museum, which is docked on the Straits of Mackinac at Mackinaw City, announced Dick Moehl.

"I received a communication today, from an anonymous angel, that says they will contribute $50,000 to the Icebreaker Mackinaw, if we as a community can raise another $50,000," he said at the Thursday, January 17, meeting of the Mackinaw City Village Council

The potential donor said work done on the Mackinaw since it was received in the village in 2006 is very impressive, Mr. Moehl told the board and the public.

"We are looking forward to June 6," when the museum will conduct regular tours of the historic vessel, he said. Until then, weather permitting, staff will arrange tours for interested groups, Mr. Moehl added.

Visitors can see the mess deck, captain's quarters, and one of the vessel's three engine rooms. Tours cost $10 a person and take about 45 minutes.

About 15,000 visitors toured the Mackinaw in 2007.

For more information about donations or tours, call (231) 436- 9825.

Donations may be directed to Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum, P.O. Box 39, Mackinaw City, 49701. Donations are tax deductible.