Montague, MI — October 2025 — The White Lake Area Historical Society will hold its last meeting of the year on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 7:00 PM at the White Lake Senior Center, Ferry Street, Montague, Michigan. The public is invited to attend.
The evening’s program, “The Dalton Family: From Ireland to White Lake, 1830 to 1900,” will be presented by Mary Lynn Mason, great-great-granddaughter of pioneer settler and lumberman Peter Dalton. Mason is a sixth-generation Michigander and fifth-generation White Lake area resident.
Her presentation will tell the Dalton family’s immigrant story—from leaving Ireland in the early 1830s to establishing new lives in West Michigan. Their journey exemplifies the immigrant pursuit of the American Dream: a family working together, taking advantage of opportunities, and striving to create a better life in a new world while leaving a legacy for future generations.
Set in the context of Michigan’s early history and the rise and fall of the lumber era, the program will explore:
– The challenges of traveling from Ireland to Michigan in the 1830s;
– Early life in the White Lake area;
– The first 4th of July celebration in White Lake’s history;
– The clashing political forces behind the creation of Muskegon County;
– The vital 19th-century ties between Michigan and Chicago;
– The lumber industry on the White River.
While recounting the Dalton family’s story, Mason will provide historical insights into life in West Michigan during its formative years and how immigrant families helped shape the White Lake community.
The program is free and open to the public. All are encouraged to attend and learn more about our shared history.
Those attending the meeting are encouraged to support the Senior Center by bringing donations of paper products: paper towels, toilet paper or napkins.
Contact: White Lake Area Historical Society
- Mary L. Mason
- mlmason49@sbcglobal.net
- 214-288-1759
Stay connected to what’s happening in our area by visiting CatchMark Community.
