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.

Romantic Roam: Horses of Mackinac Island

Posted on October 24, 2023 by Paul Austin

Deep-rooted in the vibrant tapestry of Mackinac Island’s history, culture, and everyday life, the horses continue to be an important

Haunted Bay Port Michigan – 3 Sites For Quiet Spirits

Posted on October 21, 2023April 15, 2025 by Paul Austin

Bay Port Michigan is known for the paranormal. Bay Port is the site of a publicly acknowledged haunted Bed & Breakfast Inn and you can walk through a cemetery of a vanished religious colony, and see the site of a haunted hotel that was never rebuilt.

1 of Michigan’s Most Famous Haunted Houses That You Never Heard Of

Posted on October 19, 2023October 19, 2023 by Michael Hardy

The former B&B has been featured on Pure Michigan, two Haunted Michigan travel books and highlighted in a paranormal documentary and a movie.

The Evolving Story of White Rock – A Sacred Landmark in Michigan’s Thumb

Posted on October 12, 2023April 3, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Indigenous Peoples of Michigan, the Anishinabeg, view the White Rock on the edge of the Lake Huron shore as a sacred site. The rock was much, much larger than it appears today. (Which is 2019 is mostly underwater). The Indian ensured that fresh game and food items were placed on the site as an offering. Gitchie Manitou or Great Spirit would recognize the offering by the Anishinabeg as a token of thanks for the bounty and richness of the peninsula.

The Time When Bad Axe Almost Lost Its Name

Posted on October 11, 2023October 11, 2023 by Michael Hardy

In 1909 the Michigan state legislature changed the name of Bad Axe to Huron subject to a referendum of the voters of the city. That vote has yet to happen.

Wenona Beach Amusement Park – The Coney Island of the Great Lakes 1887-1964

Posted on October 8, 2023October 10, 2023 by Michael Hardy

Dive into the rich history of Wenona Beach Amusement Park, once dubbed the Coney Island of the Great Lakes. Discover its rise to fame, iconic attractions, and why it eventually had to close its doors. A must-read for history buffs and Michigan locals alike.

The Mystery of Caseville Mercantile Co. – An 1800s Social Platform

Posted on September 23, 2023January 30, 2025 by Michael Hardy

A faded black and white image of the Caseville Mercantile, found in a historical museum, highlights its absence in public records. The store, representing 19th-century community hubs, may now exist as the Helping Hands Resale and Thrift Store, fostering local connections.

Golf on Mackinac Island – Play 2 Idyllic Courses Born in the Gilded Age

Posted on September 20, 2023September 20, 2023 by Paul Austin

Golfing on Mackinac Island, has its roots firmly planted in the late 19th century when interest in golf rapidly grew across America. These courses are a nod to their historic and idyllic location.