Long before Mackinac Island became a summer retreat, it was the stage for an extraordinary woman’s rise to power. Born of Odawa and French heritage, Madeline La Framboise overcame personal tragedy and cultural barriers to become one of the most successful fur traders in the Great Lakes region. After her husband's murder in 1806, she took over his business and built it into a thriving enterprise—standing firm against business moguls like John Jacob Astor. Though she never learned to write her own name, she spoke four languages fluently and became a respected leader and philanthropist. Her legacy helped shape Mackinac Island’s early history and remains an inspiring testament to resilience, intelligence, and quiet strength. Join us to explore the remarkable life of a woman who broke boundaries, defied expectations, and left an indelible mark on the island she called home.

Subject: history

Kim Murphy has served as a life enrichment coordinator for older adults for more than 30 years. She enjoys encouraging lifelong learning and finding joy in the little moments of every day. She is a writer, speaker, teacher, and event coordinator and also the 2022 winner of a Brilliance Award from West Michigan Woman magazine.