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Before the Bridge - Story of the Mackinac Straits Ferries |
This is the story of the fleet of ferries and their predecessors that formed the first link between Michigan's two peninisulas. Today travelers cross the Mackinac Straits via the Mackinac Bridge without ever leaving their cars, but untill 1957 it was necessary to take a break from driving in order to cross via one of the many state-operated ferries. The carferries operated along with the famous train ferry "Cheif Wawatam". While the 'Chief' operated into the 1970's, carferry service ended on November 1, 1957 (after the Mighty Mac was opened). Take a trip with us back in time and see what straits travel was like before the bridge. Through the use of rare color footage and interviews with former ferry workers, we'll make this journey possible. | DVD | 55 minutes | grades 4-12 |
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Building the Mighty Mac |
Building the Mighty Mac is an award-winning documentary about the Mackinac Bridge. The program was produced in Hollywood by Mark Howell and includes extremely rare 16 mm color footage showing all stages of the bridge’s construction. These digitally restored archival finds are blended with interviews with those who helped build the structure, presenting a fast-moving, informative program, fun for all ages to enjoy. Recently, more rare color footage of the bridge’s construction was located, restored and added to the program. | DVD | 60 minutes | grades 4-12 | Plus: Includes Two Fully Restored Bonus Documentary Films !! - Miracle Bridge Over Mackinac (DVD - 30 Minutes) and Mackinac Bridge Diary (DVD - 30 Minutes)
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Final Days of the Edmund Fitz. |
Coast Guard reports and historic photos help to examine the saga of the Edmond Fitzgerald. An interview with a ship captain who was one of the last to be in contact with the "Fitz" explores one of many theories. An actual storm shows what a crewmember may have seen.
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The Great Lake Carriers |
With cameras on shore and on board these huge vessels, carrier operations are demonstrated. The dimensions and special features of these ships are illustrated, as are the variations of cargoes carried up and down the lakes.
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Ocean Ships on the Great Lakes |
This video shows all aspects of ocean ship traffic on the upper Great Lakes. It provides a good overview of what the big ships are all about and compares a local "laker" and an ocean going vessel. Docking procedures, immigration, customs checks, cargo loading and unloading are explained.
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Sailing Ships on the Great Lak |
This video turns back the clock and looks at probable lake use by the Vikings. The era of the great wind driven vessels is explored, including the types of ships that were sailed, shipwrecks and the kinds of cargo that these magnificent ships carried.
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Superior's Sailing Shipwrecks |
Major storms and the specific wrecks they caused, plus harrowing rescues and stories of survival by crewmembers are included. Historic pictures show the sailing vessels that were sunk or damaged. Underwater footage of actual wrecks lends an exciting dimension.
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Michigan's Ports and Harbors |
The state's ports and harbors on four of the five Great Lakes that are most active in commerce and recreation, or have historical significance, are included in this video. All aspects of these ports are explored through information provided by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
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