This 1912 postcard captures a historic view of Main Street in Port Austin, Michigan, showcasing the town’s early commercial district. The scene features brick and wood-frame storefronts, early automobiles lining the street, and businesses catering to the growing number of motorists, such as the Red Crown Gasoline station and Sinclair Service Station. Overhead power and telephone lines indicate that Port Austin was already adopting modern infrastructure. In the distance, Lake Huron is visible, a reminder of the town’s strong connection to maritime trade and fishing.
At the time, Port Austin was a key hub for lumber, agriculture, and shipping, with steamships frequently transporting goods and passengers. This image reflects a transition period in American life, as automobiles began replacing horse-drawn carriages, and small towns like Port Austin adapted to new technologies. Preserved in the Burton Historical Collection at the Detroit Public Library, this postcard offers a glimpse into the daily life of a Michigan lakeside community more than a century ago.
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