Nestled amidst the quaint charm of Mackinac Island stands the historic Island House Hotel, a cherished landmark with a storied past that echoes through time. Our journey begins with its inception as a summer retreat for Charles O’Malley, evolving into the nerve center of the Moral Rearmament Association (MRA), facing a remarkable rescue from near demolition by the Ryba-Callewaert family to the cherished and timeless landmark it is today.

“The Story of the Island House” documentary, recently nominated for the 2024 Emmy Awards in the Historic Documentary category, meticulously traces the hotel’s evolution. Directed by Oliver Thornton and expertly captured by videographer Bob Burg, the film features a compelling narrative voiced by Dominick Miller from Mackinac State Historic Parks. Heather Tamlyn, our Director of Marketing, served as the dedicated Project Manager, ensuring every detail of this captivating tale was brought to life.

Guests of Island House Hotel are invited to immerse themselves in this insightful documentary, offering a glimpse into the rich history that defines our beloved establishment. Alongside this feature, discover “The Story of Ryba’s Fudge,” celebrating the origins of the Ryba family’s legacy on Mackinac Island, adding another layer to our island’s vibrant history.