Pittman, Philip McMillan
April 6, 1941 - April 20, 2007
Place of Birth: Detroit, MI
Place of Principle Residence: Cedarville, MI
Biography:
Philip McMillan Pittman was born to Sally and Lansing Pittman in Detroit, MI. In 1963, Pittman graduated with an A.B. in English literature, and a Ph.D. in English literature from Vanderbilt University in 1967. Between 1967 and 1968 Pittman worked as an assistant professor of English at the University of Victoria, and then as an associate professor at Marshall University from 1968 – 1980. Upon his retirement, Pittman moved to Cedarville, MI with his wife, Margaret, and became an author, editor, publisher, and historian. He was actively involved in his community, and published several books on his historical research, including Don’t Blame the Treaties: Native American Rights and the Michigan Indian Treaties. He died on April 20, 2007, survived by his wife and three children: Philip McMillan III, Mary Christine, and Noel.
Selected Works:
- Fishing the King Salmon in Michigan’s Northern Waters (1992)
- The Portrayal of Life Stages in English Literature (1989)
- The Les Cheneaux Chronicles: Anatomy of a Community (1984)
Awards:
- AASLH Award, 1986
Critical Reception:
Pittman was the recipient of the AASLH Award, and was included in several biographical books.
Relevance of Place to Author’s Work:
Pittman was actively involved in his community, serving as president of the Les Cheneaux Historical Association, member of Les Cheneaux Islands Association, and board member of Little Travers Conservancy. He used his retirement and involvement in local historical activities to pursue a career as a historian, publishing his research.