The 45th Parallel Monument in Kewadin That’s Also a Crypt (of Sorts)
Some people call this the Pyramid of the 45th Parallel.
It’s actually listed as the Hugh J. Gray Cairn, located at 5899 Cairn Highway north of Kewadin, just off old US-31.
The pyramid was constructed of 83 stones, one from each Michigan county with the county’s names inscribed on each one.
The only one NOT made of stone is the one from Wexford County, which is actually a square hunk of rubber with a steel plate with the county name.
The pyramid – or ‘cairn’ - was constructed by Antrim County Masons and workers from the Michigan Highway Department. It’s 16 feet high with a base that is 12 feet square. It also features a bronze plaque honoring Hugh J. Gray with his likeness and the inscription “Hugh J. Gray – Dean of Michigan’s Tourist Activity.”
This is more than just a monument – it's also a crypt with resort booklets, statewide brochures, and various state newspapers that featured articles of Gray’s promotional efforts..... and mainly due to his creation of the West Michigan Tourist Association.
The pyramid/cairn/crypt is located near the 45th parallel on Cairn Highway (Old US-31), and has been there since its inception in 1938.
Hugh J. Gray Pyramid