Greensky Hill church facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Greensky Hill Mission
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 Location in Michigan
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| Nearest city | Charlevoix, Michigan |
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| Area | 1 acre (0.40 ha) |
| NRHP reference No. | 72000603 |
| Added to NRHP | March 16, 1972 |
The Greensky Hill Indian United Methodist Church is a special place located near Charlevoix, Michigan. It's a historic church that was added to the National Register of Historic Places on March 16, 1972. This means it's recognized as an important historical site. The church still looks much like it did long ago, with its original wooden parts. It can fit about 80 people inside.
Today, the church welcomes everyone. They offer a free community breakfast every Sunday morning. This meal is open to all, and you don't need to be religious to join. Worship services are also open to anyone who wants to attend.
History of Greensky Hill Church
The Greensky Hill Church was started by a man named Peter Greensky. He was also known as Shagasokicki. Peter Greensky was a chief of the Chippewa people. He learned about Christianity and became a preacher. The church was founded in 1844.
Peter Greensky was introduced to Christianity by John Sunday. He was baptized into the Methodist Church in 1833. By 1844, he was allowed to preach. Greensky worked at other missions, like the Pine River Indian Mission. He also helped at the Isabella Indian Mission and the Oceana Indian Mission.
Peter Greensky wanted to build a mission where he could preach. He hoped to share Christianity with his Native American community. At first, services were held in simple buildings made of bark and tree branches.
Around the 1850s, a proper church was built. The lumber for the church was brought by canoe from Traverse City. Then, it was carried two miles to the church site. There was a circle of "council trees" around the church. This was a peaceful spot where Native American chiefs could meet and talk about important tribal matters.
Greensky Hill Church Today
The original church building is still used by a group of people today. This community celebrates both Christian beliefs and Native American traditions. Some of Peter Greensky's family members still attend the church regularly. This includes his great-great-great-grandson, Ray Greensky, and Ray's children, Brayden and Isabelle Jean Greensky.
