2 Tuskegee Red Tails Discovered in Lake Huron & St. Clair River
In the summer of 2015, underwater explorers made history by conducting a five-day archeological survey of a Bell P-39Q Airacobra fighter plane in Lake Huron.
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 Grindstone City – Home to The Michigan Thumb’s First Industry
The accidental find of the Marshal Sandstone formation in Michigan’s Upper Thumb in 1834 gave rise to one of the areas first industries. Grindstone City became famous for its production of huge grinding wheels until a disruptive technology change slid the industry into obsolescence.
History Of Pointe Aux Barques Cottage Community in Michigan’s Thumb
The name Pointe Aux Barques was coined by French sailors and voyageurs in about 1760. The name literally means the point of boats, This is because the rock formations at the tip of the Thumb looked like the prow of a ship. It was also known as a hideout for sailors.
The year is 1912. An exclusive modern resort community is opened at the tip of Michigan’s thumb with direct train service from Detroit. For over 100 years it has been a resort community.
5 Popular Legends of Great Lakes Monsters & One Specter
We cover three of the top legends for Great Lakes Sea Monsters. One is in Lake Erie, one in Lake Huron, Detroit and we actually have a monster in nearby Saginaw Bay.
The Railroad at the Bottom of Saginaw Bay
A ship runs aground in Saginaw Bay only a few miles from its destination in Caseville. Leaving us a tale on the rails.
St. Joseph Indian Trail – Michigan’s 200 Mile Ancient Highway
The St. Joseph Trail was an ancient major native American route that traversed the southern portion of Michigan—originating near the mouth of the St. Joseph river, it continued eastward terminating near Ann Arbor and connecting with the other major trail systems along the Straits of Detroit.
Over 100 Growing Years of Sweet Michigan Sugar Beet History
After the Great Fire of 1881, Michigan Sugar Beet production took off in Mid-Michigan. Dozens of factories were built for refinement.
This article offers a detailed history of this Michigan industry.
The Fading Days of Michigan’s Bach General Store
The Bach General Store, long since closed. Once the center of the community, these shops were common in the days before Walmart and Dollar General.