History

The Presbyterian Church of the Redeemer dates back to 1887 when a bearded man, clad in a mackinaw and carrying packs, snowshoes, and a turkey on his back, arrived in Manistique.

The Rev. J. Payson Mills had been sent by Lake Superior Presbytery to organize a Presbyterian Church. Rev. Mills raised considerable enthusiasm and collected twenty-five signatures on a petition asking the Presbytery for such an organization.

The first official meeting of the church occurred on June 23, 1887. Growing quickly, the church building was dedicated on August 12, 1888, with Rev. Andrew McLean as pastor. The manse next door to the church was built in 1902. In its early years, part of Redeemer established three small chapels in outlying areas. Additions to the church building were added in 1954 and 1978.

Church of the Redeemer plays a significant role in the com-
munity of Manistique.