Category: History

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.

History of The Fishing Village of Leland Michigan – How Fishtown Kept Its Working Waterfront

Posted on July 1, 2026July 1, 2026 by Michael Hardy

Leland, Michigan evolved from a sawmill and iron-smelting town into one of Lake Michigan’s last commercial fishing villages. Its historic Fishtown, weathered docks and family fisheries continue to tell one of Michigan’s most remarkable waterfront stories.

Uncovered Cross Village History – The Charming Lake Michigan Town That Once Aimed to Be a 2nd Chicago

Posted on July 1, 2026July 1, 2026 by Michael Hardy

Cross Village was never just a scenic stop near the Tunnel of Trees. Rare postcards show an Odawa homeland, a logging town, a mission center, a burned-out Main Street and the folk-art wonder of Legs Inn.

History of Indian Beach & Indian Lake Michigan – The Resort Era West of Dowagiac

Posted on June 29, 2026June 29, 2026 by Michael Hardy

Indian Lake west of Dowagiac was once a busy resort district with trolleys, steamers, cottages, pavilions and packed summer beaches. Indian Beach and Wiest’s Resort show how Cass County families turned a rural lake into a seasonal gathering place.

History of Forestville, Michigan – The Huge 1800s Lake Huron Dock Town That Once Moved Timber, Fish and Families

Posted on June 28, 2026June 30, 2026 by Michael Hardy

he History of Forestville Michigan comes alive through rare photographs and vintage postcards that capture the village’s days as a thriving Lake Huron lumber port. Follow the rise of its docks, mills, businesses, and waterfront before changing times reshaped this small Michigan community.

Michigan’s Upper Thumb Celebrates Michigan Log Cabin Day 2026- A Day of Blacksmiths, General Stores and Pioneer Life on America’s 250th

Posted on June 26, 2026June 26, 2026 by Michael Hardy

Venture into Michigan’s heartland this June, as we journey back in time to celebrate the state’s unique heritage. Hear the echo of hammers, smell the pancakes sizzling, and be part of Michigan’s Log Cabin Day—a celebration as vibrant and deep-seated as the spirit of Michigan itself.

Stunning Hotel Ojibway Sault Ste Marie – A 1938 Look at One of Michigan’s Grand Hotels

Posted on June 26, 2026June 26, 2026 by Michael Hardy

Step back to 1938 and visit one of Michigan’s most iconic historic hotels. This Michigan Moments video showcases the Hotel Ojibway in downtown Sault Ste. Marie during its golden age, when tourists, elegant automobiles, and Great Lakes travelers filled its front entrance. Learn about the hotel’s rich history, its connection to the Soo Locks, and the enduring legend of Room 616 that continues to intrigue visitors today.

Elkton, Michigan 1940 – The Day the Star Theater Welcomed Hollywood

Posted on June 25, 2026June 25, 2026 by Michael Hardy

Watch this Michigan Moments episode as we travel back to downtown Elkton, Michigan, in 1940, when a single photograph captured

History of Deford Michigan: How a Small Railroad Stop Became a Busy Farm Community

Posted on June 25, 2026June 25, 2026 by Michael Hardy

The History of Deford Michigan comes alive through rare early 1900s photos showing the depot, Bruce Block, post office, hotel, school, grain elevator and Standard Condensed Milk Co. plant. Together, they show how a small Tuscola County town became a working farm and rail hub.