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.

Michigan Ghost Town in the Thumb – Port Crescent State Park

Posted on April 30, 2021November 15, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Port Crescent State Park, located in southern Michigan, was once a thriving lumber town before becoming a ghost town. Today, it offers outdoor activities and preserves a rich history, including remnants of its past, amid scenic natural beauty along Lake Huron.

Grindstone City’s Mr. Grindstone and Tourist Information Center

Posted on April 24, 2021January 14, 2022 by Michael Hardy

Grindstone City made a humorous attempt to get tourists driving by to stop and take a look and maybe take a selfie with Mr. Grindstone.

2 Tuskegee Red Tails Discovered in Lake Huron & St. Clair River

Posted on April 18, 2021May 23, 2025 by Michael Hardy

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.

History of Grindstone City – Home to The Michigan Thumb’s First Industry

Posted on April 12, 2021October 24, 2025 by Michael Hardy

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.

Kids Pony Parade in 1930s Bad Axe Michigan

Posted on March 21, 2021March 10, 2026 by Malcom Mott

This shot was found in a stack of digital shots from our research. It appears to be a pony parade taken in Bad Axe, Michigan, in the 1930s.

History Of Pointe Aux Barques Cottage Community in Michigan’s Thumb

Posted on March 16, 2021January 30, 2025 by Michael Hardy

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

Posted on March 6, 2021January 30, 2025 by Michael Hardy

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.

23 Crazy and Homey Tales From the Porcupine Mountain Cabins

Posted on February 27, 2021March 10, 2026 by Malcom Mott

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park comprises 60,000 acres of massive trees, rolling mountains, fabled shores, and everlasting memories. the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has tucked 23 rustic backcountry cabins or yurts into this stunning landscape, which are nestled into some truly beautiful spaces.