On Watch During the Cold War – Port Austin Air Force Station
Port Austin Michigan Air Force Station was a major radar site during the Cold War. It was one of nine radar stations in Michigan that were part of the SAGE line of radar defense.
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.
Caseville Mystery – Was The Mouth of the Pigeon River an Orchard Before Caseville was Settled?
It’s becoming commonplace. I’m researching something and encounter an entirely new and interesting story I’ve never heard before. In this case, this is the story of a pair of hunters and trappers who stopped to stay near the mouth of the …
4 Amazing Stories About the Michigan Indian Trails of The Upper Thumb
The first major highways were based on trails Native Americans has used for centuries throughout Michigan.
Here are four tidbits about those trails in Michigan’s Upper Thumb.
5 Mysterious Little Facts About Michigan’s Historic Fort Gratiot
The site of the mysterious fort was first built in 1686 by the French. The Americans rebuilt the fort in 1814 and it was used until 1879. The exact location of the fort is listed as “restricted” by the US National Archives.
Is There a Great Lakes Stonehenge Version In Lake Michigan?
Does Michigan have an underwater rock circle from over 10,000 years ago hidden in the Great Lakes?
Actually Michigan has several.
Charity Island History Is Mysterious and Remote
The Charity Island History spans 100’s of years. Today the island is a wildlife sanctuary and visited by only a few people each year. We cover a bit of this mysterious remote island located in the middle of busy Saginaw Bay.
Michigan Indian Chief Standing Oak Defeated the Fox Tribe Near Sebewaing
Chief Standing Oak ruled the tribe of Chippewa Indians, living near Kilmanagh between the Sebewaing river and Shebeon creek.
He led his tribe in a fierce battle with the Fox.
The Sturdy Sentinal of Grindstone City – The Wallace Mill
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.