Aerial View
Named by the early French voyageurs and fur trappers more than 100 years before the American Revolution, the words "Presque Isle" mean 'almost an island,' which accurately describes the layout of the land. The narrow strip of connecting land was used to make a portage as a short cut to rowing around the entire land mass - especially important since the early trappers and explorers used canoes large enough to accomodate 20 - 30 men.
Today, the name remains, as does the pronunciation "Presk EEL" as a tribute to the French adventurers of yore. Near the south side of the portage area, you can see the marina breakwater in the aerial photo.