In 15 October 1908, a large forest fire consumed 2,500,000 acres (10,000 km2) of Presque Isle County, and most of the area of Metz.

Killed were 42 men, women, and children, many of whom were on a train derailed by rails twisted from the fire.

There were 207 housing units at an average density of 5.8 per square mile (2.2/km2).

The racial makeup of the township was 97.89% White, 1.51% Native American, 0.30% Asian, and 0.30% from two or more races.

27.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.