The Leelanau Historical Society proudly presents “Lake Leelanau, Spirit of the Lake,” a captivating documentary that dives into the history and nostalgia of Lake Leelanau – a cherished body of water in Leelanau County, MI. Produced by the Leelanau Historical Society and directed by Keith Patterson of Manitou Films, this film is a heartfelt tribute to the lake’s enduring legacy. The film is a recipient of a 2024 State History Award from the Historical Society of Michigan.
View On Demand
Experience the powerful story of Lake Leelanau: Spirit of the Lake from the comfort of your home. Now available to buy or rent, this award-winning documentary brings the lake’s rich natural and cultural history to life. Support our mission and enjoy this local treasure—anytime, anywhere.
Companion Exhibit – Opening June 18th, 2025
Dive deeper into the history behind Lake Leelanau: Spirit of the Lake with our new companion exhibit, opening at the Leelanau Historical Society Museum on June 18, 2025.
This in-depth exhibit expands on themes from the documentary—featuring artifacts, maps, and photos featured in the film—offering visitors a closer look into it’s history. The film will be looping continuously within the exhibit, included with regular museum admission. Plan your visit today!
2024 Michigan History Award
We are pleased to announce, the Historical Society of Michigan has awarded the Leelanau Historical Society a State History Award in the media category for our recently released documentary film “Lake Leelanau, Spirit of the Lake”. The film was a year in the making, compiling research, historic images, collecting vintage footage from community members, and interviewing local experts. It premiered to a sold-out venue of enthusiastic community members in July of 2024.
LHS Staff and Board are very honored to be recognized for our hard work on this amazing film. Leelanau is often celebrated for its natural beauty but the history is really what gives this area the sense of place that makes it special. “Lake Leelanau, Spirit of the Lake” is our tribute to the people and stories that deepen our understanding of the past.
About The Director
Keith Patterson
Director and Executive Producer
Manitou Films
Keith Patterson lived and worked in Los Angeles for over 15 years as a producer and post-production supervisor on television series for ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, the CW, USA, Lifetime, E!, ABC Family, Nat Geo, and Disney XD. He currently resides in Grand Rapids, Michigan with his wife Bethany and daughter Gabriella where he owns an international award-winning creative advertising agency called Cre8gency. He founded Manitou Films in 2022 with the purpose of producing world-class documentary series like Spirit of the National Parks, Beer City, USA, and Shipwrecks of the Great Lakes, and his latest, Lake Leelanau, Spirit of the Lake.
Summer 2023 Production – Keith Patterson and his film crew conducting interviews and capturing scenic footage.
In The News:
- The Leelanau Ticker | July 1, 2024
- Leelanau Enterprise | September 12, 2024
- MyNorth | September 2024
- FOX 17 Grand Rapids | Oct 24, 2024
Host a Screening of Lake Leelanau: Spirit of the Lake
Bring the story of Lake Leelanau to your community! LHS is excited to partner with local clubs, nonprofits, schools, and organizations interested in hosting a screening of the Lake Leelanau documentary. Whether you’re planning an educational event, a community gathering, or a film night, we’d love to work with you.
Contact us today to schedule a showing and help share the rich history and enduring beauty of Lake Leelanau with your audience.
Info@LeelanauHistory.org | 231-256-7475
Past Documentary Showings
| EVENT | DATE | LOCATION | TICKETS |
| Premiere with Director Q&A | July 5, 2024 | Old Art Building | CLOSED |
| “Water Week” Showing | Sept. 15, 2024 | The Bay Theatre | CLOSED |
| Maritime History Festival | Sept. 21, 2024 | Leelanau Historical Society | CLOSED |
| LHS Annual Meeting | Oct. 16, 2024 | Munnecke Community Room, Leland | CLOSED |
| Showing | January 28, 2025 | The Alluvion, Traverse City | CLOSED |