1881 Parisville Fire – Devastating blaze destroyed a town, and brought miracles
The 1881 fire that swept much of Michigan’s Thumb devastated one town. However stories of miraculous events are passed down today.
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.
Port Sanilac’s Commercial Fishing History
Port Sanilac, Michigan, once a hub for commercial fishing from the late 19th to mid-20th century, transitioned to recreational fishing by the 1970s due to overfishing and regulatory changes. The town now celebrates its fishing heritage through local museums.
Earle Monument in Cass City: Honoring Michigan’s Father of Good Roads
The Earle Monument near Cass City, Michigan, commemorates Horatio S. Earle, the first Highway Commissioner. Dedicated in 1930, it symbolizes his significant influence on Michigan’s paved highway system and national infrastructure policy.
Pere Marquette Depot in Gilford, Michigan: A Glimpse into Early Rail Life
Early 1900s view of the Pere Marquette Railroad Depot in Gilford, Michigan. The station served as a hub for passengers, freight, and telegraph communication in rural Tuscola County. Photo by Sherman. This real photo postcard captures the Pere Marquette Railway Depot …
Inside Cash’s Bar – Ubly’s Can-Covered Curiosity from the 1940s
In the heart of Michigan’s Thumb, the small village of Ubly once housed one of the state’s most unusual drinking establishments—Cash’s Bar. These two vintage photo postcards from the 1940s give us a rare glimpse into a one-of-a-kind tavern that doubled …
A Glimpse into Early Bad Axe – The Schrader House Hotel and the P.M. Fountain
At the turn of the 20th century, Bad Axe, Michigan, thrived with commerce, featuring horse-drawn wagons and the New Schrader House hotel. This era’s essence is captured in a postcard, highlighting community, travel, and civic pride, now replaced by modernity.
Kilmanagh Michigan History – 3 Fascinating Facts About the C. Haist & Co. General Store Era
The historic photo depicts C. Haist and Company’s Store in Kilmanagh, Michigan, circa late 1800s. It highlights the store’s role as a community hub and features Italianate architecture typical of the era.
Did Caseville Have A Log Cabin Post Office in the 1930s?
This vintage photograph of Caseville, Michigan, likely taken in the late 1930s or early 1940s, captures a slice of everyday life on Main Street during a quieter era. The image prominently features LeBlanc’s General Store, a recognizable storefront advertising, “We Sell …