The Two Eras of Interlochen Michigan

The Two Eras of Interlochen Michigan

March 13, 2026 · 8 min · Season 6 · Episode 7

About this episode

The episode discusses the transformation of Interlochen, Michigan from a timber town to a hub for music and arts.

Interlochen, Michigan was once a timber town on a narrow strip between two lakes. In 1917 the state bought a stand of white pines to create Michigan’s first state park, saving the forest and the town’s future. By 1928 conductor Joseph Maddy had brought the National Music Camp to Interlochen, and by 1962 the Interlochen Arts Academy opened as a boarding school for gifted artists. Interestingly, it all grew from that one decision to spare the pines – a logging-era move that paved the way for music. Thanks for listening, please follow us for future episodes. The End of the Road in Michigan is a production of Thumbwind Publications

People in this episode

Host: Thumbwind Publications

Topics covered

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Michigan’s first state park, Interlochen Arts Academy

Places: Interlochen, Michigan, Michigan

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