Explore the winter magic of another era by foot, ski or snowshoe in Bay View, Michigan

Back on the sidewalk, my husband, Ed, and I continue down the deserted block, looking for more uncovered windows. Many homes have their shades drawn, or even boarded-up windows. Others have their porches wrapped in thick sheets of plastic, preventing you from getting too near. Like this stately white home with black trim that catches my eye. I walk up to its hermetically sealed porch to read the small sign leaning against one pillar. It proudly lists the five families who have owned it since its construction in 1897, along with their dates of ownership. The home’s current owners, the Mitchells, bought it in 1994.