The Not-So-Serious History of Lake Orion: A Hidden Gem in Michigan

Nestled in the heart of Oakland County in Michigan, lies a little slice of paradise known as Lake Orion. But this tranquil village with its picturesque lake and vibrant community has a history that's anything but ordinary. From Native American tribes to grand hotels, and even a health retreat, Lake Orion's past is full of surprises and quirky anecdotes that will leave you chuckling. So, let's dive into the hilarious history of Lake Orion!

Potawatomi and Odawa, and a Greek Hunter? Oh My!

Long, long ago, before the era of smartphones and online shopping, Lake Orion was home to the Potawatomi and Odawa Native American tribes. These wise folks lived in harmony with nature, enjoying the bounties of the land and the crystal-clear waters of the lake. But then, along came the European settlers in the early 1800s, and things started to get a little weird.

Legend has it that the name "Orion" was given to the area by a certain Judge Samuel Munson, one of the early settlers. But why Orion, you ask? Well, apparently, the judge was a fan of Greek mythology, and he thought it would be hilarious to name the place after a mythological hunter. So, Lake Orion got its name from a dude who liked to chase mythical beasts in the stars. Talk about an out-of-this-world history!

A Resort Boom, and Celebrities to Boot!

Fast forward to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and Lake Orion was booming with resorts. People from all over the country flocked to this little piece of paradise for some R&R. The Bellevue Hotel, which opened in 1875, was the place to be. With its three stories, 60 rooms, dining hall, dance hall, and even a bowling alley, it was the epitome of luxury. And guess who were among the famous guests who graced its halls? None other than Henry Ford and Thomas Edison! Imagine rubbing elbows with these legends while sipping on a fancy cocktail. Talk about a star-studded affair!

But wait, there's more! The St. Joseph's Sanitarium, which opened in 1892, was not your typical health retreat. Sure, they offered the usual treatments like hydrotherapy and massage, but they also had electrotherapy! Yes, you heard that right. Imagine getting zapped with electricity in the name of health and relaxation. Shocking, right? But hey, who needs a spa day when you can get electrified at a sanitarium?

The Rise of the Suburban Enclave, and Dragon on the Lake?

As the 20th century rolled in, Lake Orion saw a decline in the resort industry. But fear not, for this little village had more surprises up its sleeve. With the completion of the I-75 freeway in the 1960s, Lake Orion became a suburban enclave. Families flocked to the village for its peaceful lifestyle, excellent school system, and recreational activities. Who needs fancy resorts when you can have white picket fences and backyard BBQs, right?

But Lake Orion's sense of humor didn't stop there. The village is known for its quirky community events, and one of the most famous is the annual Dragon on the Lake festival. Yes, you read that right - dragons! This festival celebrates Lake Orion's history and culture with live music, art, and even dragon boat races. Who knew you could race dragons on a lake in Michigan? It's a sight to behold and definitely a festival that will make you do a double-take.

So, there you have it - the hilarious history of Lake Orion. From Greek hunters to celebrity!