East Michigan Tourist Association

The history of the East Michigan Tourist Association (EMTA) can be traced back to Jan. 31, 1910, when its parent organization, the Northeastern Michigan Development Bureau was incorporated. Established primarily to find a use for cutover timber lands in the northeastern portion of the lower peninsula, the latter organization promoted the sale and use of agriculutral lands. The Bureau sponsored the organization of the Huron Shore Road Association, which worked for the development and improvement of regional roads. The Huron Shore Tourist Association was formed in 1922 to encourage tourism in the area. The Huron Shore Tourist Association and the Bureau combined operations, and was enlarged in 1924 and officially became known as the East Michigan Tourist Association. Today, the EMTA is incorporated under the laws of Michigan, not for pecuniary profit. Its purpose is to advertise and publicize in an unbiased and impartial manner the recreational travel features of Eastern and Central Michigan. EMTA is a member of the Michigan Travel Bureau within the Dept. of Commerce.