Delta County Economic Development Alliance Executive Director Ed Legault, left, presents the Mighty Oak (Century) Award to Gladstone City Manager Eric Buckman, recognizing the municipality's 100-plus years of governance. (Contributed photo)

ESCANABA — It is with great pleasure that during the Delta County Chamber of Commerce’s annual dinner on Oct. 9, I presented to the City of Gladstone the Mighty Oak (Century) Award — an award that celebrates a community whose deep roots, enduring strength and lasting impact have shaped the landscape around us.

For more than 100 years, they have stood proudly at the headwaters of Little Bay de Noc, where the forest meets the water and history meets progress. Founded with the Soo Line Railroad, the City of Gladstone was built on the recognition of this region’s natural wealth — the deep waters of the bay and the strength of the surrounding forests. From that foundation, a thriving, resilient community took root.

Through the decades, the water has always been Gladstone’s lifeblood — from the early fishermen at Saunders Point casting their lines into the bay, to the generations who’ve enjoyed the yacht harbor, campgrounds and park. Gladstone has long understood that the beauty and bounty of its natural resources are not just gifts to be admired, but treasures to be nurtured and shared.

The deep roots of this forest-dependent community run back to early pioneers like Webster Marble and Isaac Bushong, whose ingenuity and determination helped shape its beginnings.

Gladstone’s spirit of preservation and pride lives on today. The city has honored its history by creating a walking tour with informative signage, paying tribute to the individuals and businesses who built a strong, stable community more than a century ago. It’s a beautiful reminder that progress and remembrance can walk hand in hand.

And that balance — between honoring history and embracing growth — defines Gladstone today. From hosting the Bass Pro Shop and Cabela’s Masters Walleye Circuit Tournament, which brings national attention to our world-class fishery, to encouraging new housing, showcasing their farmers market and continual development of their downtown, the city continues to grow with confidence and care.

Momentum is building here. New homes rise where the forest once stood. Local entrepreneurs bring fresh life to downtown. Families settle, drawn by the same natural beauty and sense of belonging that has always defined Gladstone.

Like a mighty oak growing by the water’s edge, Gladstone’s roots run deep — nourished by history, strengthened by community, and reaching ever upward toward the future.

Let’s all celebrate a city that has weathered the seasons with grace, grown stronger through the years, and continues to provide shelter, opportunity, and pride for all who call it home.

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Ed Legault has been executive director of the Delta County Economic Development Alliance since spring 2020.