Rep. McDowell offered the following resolution:

House Resolution No. 319.

A resolution declaring Whitefish Point the Cranberry Capital of the state of Michigan.

Whereas, Whitefish Point, Michigan contains a rich agricultural heritage in cranberries dating back to frontier times when Native Americans used them for trade, dyes, teas, and wound compressors; and

Whereas, Whitefish Point is the site for the only historic cranberry farm in the state, Centennial Cranberry Farm, established in 1876 with land purchased from the United States government by John Clarke; and

Whereas, In the late 19th century, 18 farms in the area shipped cranberries to destinations around the Midwest such as Chicago and St. Louis; and

Whereas, Whitefish Point’s location on majestic Lake Superior has provided an ideal growing environment with an abundance of freshwater and acidic soil; and

Whereas, Whitefish Point has been the epicenter for cranberry production in the state of Michigan and for a lengthy period of time possessed the sole cranberry farm in the state; and

Whereas, Whitefish Point, Michigan produces over 80 tons of cranberries every year to be sold as preserves, store brand juices in major markets nationwide, raw fruits, preserves, and even wine; and

Whereas, Because cranberry production has steadily inclined on a national level, reaching record highs in 2004, it has become important to recognize and celebrate Whitefish Point’s integral role in this thriving agricultural market; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare Whitefish Point the Cranberry Capital of the state of Michigan.