Richard Buchko

The Keweenaw Puzzle Richard Buchko

Was Calumet almost the capitol of Michigan? Did Houdini appear at the Calumet Theater? Did the Portage Lake Pioneers win the Stanley Cup? Who was Big Annie - and what was so big about her? Is there really a secret fortune in silver waiting to be rediscovered? In the movie THE MAN WHO SHOT LIBERTY VALANCE a reporter said, "When the legend becomes fact, print the legend." Some think that makes for a more interesting story - but often the truth is more fascinating than the legend, and the truth is always better than a lie, no matter how pleasing that lie. Here are some facts behind a few of the tales commonly told in the Keweenaw. With a rich and wonderful history to share, we don't need myths and false history.