GREENSKY HILL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

In the 1830's Peter Greensky, a Chippewa Indian, preached the gospel and converted his Indian brothers and sisters to Christianity. He served as a guide and interpreter for his fellow missionary, and also acquired a following of his own as a strong preacher with great influence among his people. In 1860 he was put in charge of the all Indian Pine River Mission near Charlevoix, serving there until his death in 1866.
This simple log church was built at the mission in the 1840's. Surrounded by trees marking the site of a long-sacred meeting place, the church was constructed with large hewn logs notched at the corners and laid horizontally over a stone foundation. Much of the lumber used in the building was brought by canoe from Traverse City. For many years the mission was the scene of an annual camp meeting which drew Indians from several states and Canada for revival meetings and a chance to renew personal and cultural ties. Today the church is used by an active racially mixed congregation, some of whom are descendants of the original worshippers. Presently, the church holds Sunday morning worship services, Sunday School, Bible study, UMW meetings and fellowship gatherings. The church has recently completed its new fellowship hall, Susan Hall. This building enables Greensky Hill to reach out to its community in new ways.