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.
We found an interesting photo from the 1950s that shows Aubrey M. Clarke seated in front of a panel of radio equipment, a microphone in one hand, and a confident smile on his face. Clarke’s call sign—W8OKV—is prominently displayed, along with …
Clements Library at the University of Michigan adds to their collection with this rare map of Fort Detroit. It offers a glimpse of what Detroit looked like in 1761.
In the early 1900s, news broke of a lead and zinc strike just six miles east of Caseville, tucked along the shoreline of Saginaw Bay. The story, first reported in the Detroit Free Press on December 8, 1907, sparked excitement across …
Small towns in Michigan evolve. Back in the 1900s, a small town provided all the services one needed, which was merely a horseback or buggy ride away. General stores, liveries, blacksmiths, hardware stores, hotels, and restaurants were all part of the …
In the waning days of the fairness doctrine, and before the cheaply produced and political “talk radio” took over the AM band, Night Flight 760 dominated the night.
North Branch Michigan History is full of grit, fires, railroads, and rebirth. This blog takes you on a photo-rich journey through the people and landmarks that built a town, rebuilt it, and kept its story alive for generations. Discover the true heart of a small town.
Rare images from 1900–1920 bring the history of Munger, Michigan to life. See the depot, blacksmith, schoolhouse, and families that shaped this farming village in Bay County.
Between 1908 and 1930, Vassar, Michigan faced challenges like frequent floods and a train derailment, yet adapted by diversifying its economy and maintaining community spirit. Historical buildings and the railroad depot reflect its resilient past.
