News & Fun in Michigan
We examine stories and events that shaped the history of the Upper Thumb and Michigan. While we focus on the Thumb region, other Great Lakes historical events are covered. Major events include the lumbering era and the 1871 and 1881 great fires. We cover major pioneers and personalities that shaped the region. To hear many of our best stories, visit and subscribe to our Podcast, “The End of the Road in Michigan.”
Our best Michigan history posts are found below.
The Wallace Roller Mill was built in 1887 on the shore of Lake Huron. The mill was the first in the area to diversify from grindstone quarry and milling operations.
The stone structure stands today providing four vacation condos.
The Grindstone City Quarry powered a small Michigan town that shipped grindstones across the world. This straight-ahead story explains how it grew, why demand collapsed, and what visitors can still see on Lake Huron. A sharp look at a boom and a bust.
An 1842 map marked “Zappapoiton” and “Zappapoie River” at present-day White Rock. The stream is now Elm Creek. This piece explains the labels, the location, and why the names disappeared.
The History of Memphis Michigan follows a small Belle River town that powered early mills, welcomed the railroad, and built “The Thing,” a steam car that rolled before Ford’s Model T. Discover how innovation and industry shaped this Michigan community.
When Henry Ford’s gas electric train rolled into Tecumseh in 1926, it wasn’t just another railcar—it was Ford’s bold move to reinvent railroad travel. This short-lived yet visionary project connected his automotive empire to Michigan’s rail lines in revolutionary fashion.
From sweeping floors to avoiding ice cream with men, the Teacher Rules 1900 demanded more virtue than common sense. Our Michigan Moments post pokes fun at the bizarre expectations placed on early educators in Michigan and across America.
McGregor, Michigan, grew from one settler’s homestead into a vital Thumb-region railroad town. From its grain elevator to its one-room schoolhouse, McGregor Michigan history tells a timeless story of connection, community, and change.
The history of Minden City, Michigan reflects the story of small-town life in the Thumb. From farming and railroads to Main Street businesses, this village shaped Sanilac County.
