Porter, Phil
January 29, 1953 -
Place of Birth: Grosse Pointe, MI
Place of Principle Residence: Cheboygan, MI
Biography:
Phil Porter was born to Lorone and William Porter in Grosse Pointe, MI. During his youth, Porter and his family spent summers at their home on Mackinac Island where Porter’s life-long interest in the region began. During his summers at college, he worked as a uniformed guide at Fort Mackinac. In 1974, Porter graduated from Kenyon College with a BA, and in 1975 he graduated from the State University of New York with a Masters in History Museum studies. Porter has worked for the Mackinac Island State Park for over thirty-one years, serving as a curator of collections, curator of interpretation, and most recently was appointed director of the Mackinac Island State Park. He is considered an authority on the history of the Mackinac region and has published several books on the subject. In addition, Porter serves on the board of trustees of the Michigan Museums Association and the City of Cheboygan Historic Resources Commission. Porter lives in Cheboygan, MI and has five children: William, Joseph, Susanna, Katherine, and Elizabeth.
Selected Works:
- The Eagle at Mackinac, the Establishment of United States Military and Civilian Authority on Mackinac Island, 1796-1802 (1991)
- View From the Veranda, the History and Architecture of the Summer Cottages on Mackinac Island (1981)
Critical Reception:
Porter is considered the authority on the history of Mackinac Island, and has received attention for his books on the subject.
Relevance of Place to Author’s Work:
Most of Porter’s life has been spent on Mackinac Island. Ever since a young boy he has involved himself in the region, and for over thirty years has worked for the Mackinac Island State Park. All of his work is revolved around the history of Mackinac Island.