Michigan’s ‘Mackinac': WHY It’s ‘Naw’ And NEVER ‘Nac’

Alright, folks, it's time to discuss one of Michigan's easiest yet most perplexing mysteries: Why is "Mackinac" pronounced "Mack-in-awe" and not "Mack-in-ack"? Trust me; this is one of those quirks that have non-Michiganders scratching their heads and locals shaking theirs (but also knowing who NOT to pick as a Euchre partner).

Why Don't We Say Mackinac the Way It Looks? Blame the French

Yes! The French. Those baguette-loving, croissant-munching settlers decided that the Anishinaabek word Michilimackinac--meaning "place of the great turtle"--needed a makeover. Naturally, being French, they tossed in a silent "c" at the end just for fun.

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They made it fancy, but now we're all stuck explaining that, no, it's not pronounced how it looks. Thanks, France.

What About Mackinaw City?

But wait--why is Mackinaw City spelled like it sounds and sounds like it's spelled? Who must we thank for that little slice of "HUH"? Well, that would be the British. You see, they came along later and, trying to make life simpler, changed the spelling to reflect the pronunciation. However, they left us with Mackinac Island, the Straits of Mackinac, Fort Mackinac, and, eventually, the Mackinac Bridge.

Still with me? Good, because it gets better. Despite the various spellings, they are all pronounced: "MACK-in-awe." Whether you're talking about the bridge or the Coast Guard Cutter "Mackinaw," it's always "awe" at the end. Why? Blame the French or the British, or while you're at it, ask Illinois what's up with the silent "s." Maybe stop by Arkansas. While you plan your trip, here's a look at how the Mackinac Bridge was built.