3: Islands of Michigan, Part 1: Beaver Island and the Last American King

Embark on the inaugural voyage of our "Islands of Michigan" series, where we cast off to the storied shores of Beaver Island and the astonishing saga of its self-proclaimed monarch, Jesse Strang, the "King of Beaver Island." In an extraordinary blend of ambition and anarchy, every American king's tale ends in assassination in the harbor of St. James, Michigan—because there was only one, and his name was James Jesse Strang.

Born far from royalty in the humble town of Scipio, New York, Strang's life was anything but ordinary. His journey led him to Beaver Island, where he claimed divine right and established his kingdom. A king with five wives, a personal artillery piece, and the audacity to declare revelations from God, Strang’s reign was as unconventional as it was fleeting.

In this episode, we explore the peculiar and tumultuous rule of America’s only king. Delve into his audacious claims to leadership, his controversial practices, and the coup that led to his dramatic downfall. Strang’s legacy is a blend of faith, power, and the complex pursuit of a divine kingdom on earth. 

Discover more about Jesse Strang and the lore of Beaver Island at itshometownhistory.com. We invite you to subscribe and join us as we unravel the enigmas of Michigan’s past and the only American who ever laid claim to a crown on its soil.

We value your thoughts and perspectives on this unique historical narrative. Your engagement helps us to bring these rare stories to the fore, offering new insights into the lesser-known corners of American history. Share with us your take on the life and legacy of America’s last king, and keep tuning into Hometown History for more tales from Michigan's island chronicles.