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.

Best Sunrise Spots in Michigan’s Thumb: Port Austin & More

Posted on August 22, 2026August 28, 2026 by Paul Austin

Many travelers arrive at the tip of Huron County expecting to see the sun set over Lake Huron, only to realize they are standing on the wrong side of…

Metal Detecting Michigan Ghost Towns – 17 Sites in the Thumb and What May Remain

Posted on August 21, 2026August 29, 2026 by Michael Hardy

Metal detecting Michigan ghost towns starts with old maps, parcel research and written permission. Review 17 former communities, likely period finds and legal limits.

Port Sanilac Garden Gala Brings History and Dinner Together Sept. 13

Posted on August 20, 2026August 20, 2026 by Michael Hardy

The Port Sanilac Garden Gala will pair a seasonal dinner, live music and local history Sept. 13 while raising money for the Sanilac County Historic Village & Museum.

Rainy Day Things to Do in Caseville & Michigan’s Thumb

Posted on August 19, 2026August 22, 2026 by Paul Austin

Weather patterns in Michigan’s Thumb are notoriously fickle. A sudden squall off Lake Huron can turn a Caseville beach day into a washout in minutes,…

Michigan Thumb Weekend Itinerary: Port Austin & Caseville

Posted on August 18, 2026August 23, 2026 by Paul Austin

Most travelers view the Michigan Thumb as a simple collection of beach towns; however, the shoreline from Caseville to Port Austin actually serves as…

Michigan Constitutional Convention: 612 Historic Recordings Return as Voters Face a Major 2026 Decision

Posted on August 18, 2026August 18, 2026 by Michael Hardy

Michigan is digitizing 612 recordings from its 1961-62 Constitutional Convention, bringing the voices behind today’s state constitution back as voters face the issue again in 2026.

Unique Day Trips in Michigan’s Thumb: Industrial Ruins and Geologic Oddities

Posted on August 17, 2026August 19, 2026 by Paul Austin

Most travelers navigate the M-25 highway looking for a place to park a camper, yet the most significant historical sites in the region are often…

Michigan Thumb Fall Color Tour: Port Austin to Caseville

Posted on August 16, 2026August 19, 2026 by Paul Austin

While crowds swarm the Upper Peninsula in late September, the most reliable autumn foliage often waits until late October along the Lake Huron…

The Keweenaw Mountain Lodge Golf Course Has Banned Your Fancy Clubs

Posted on August 16, 2026August 16, 2026 by Michael Hardy

The Keweenaw Mountain Lodge has turned its 1935 nine-hole course into a hickory-only, walking-only experience. Its story begins with unemployed miners, federal relief money and Ocha Potter’s disputed plan for a northern golf resort.

Family Friendly Activities in Bay City MI: A Maritime and Nature Guide

Posted on August 16, 2026August 19, 2026 by Paul Austin

A 418-foot naval destroyer sitting in the Saginaw River isn’t just a relic of the Cold War; it’s one of the most immersive classrooms in…