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.
Linkville, a small unincorporated village in Michigan, thrived between 1890 and 1930 as a farming community and key railroad stop. However, post office closures and improved transportation led to its decline, leaving St. Paul Lutheran Church as its enduring landmark.
Frankenmuth, once a modest working-class settlement, transformed over time. Rare photographs from 1900-1940 highlight its mills, hotels, and general stores, reflecting a community-based economy prior to the tourism boom that defined its later identity.
Croswell, Michigan, at the turn of the 20th century, was a vibrant town shaped by agriculture, industry, and community life. Its historical structures and preserved memories reflect its significant contributions and enduring legacy in American history.
Helena, a rural hamlet in Michigan’s Thumb region, emerged in the late 19th century with a railroad and post office. It lost commerce over time, with its historical general store and St. Anthony’s Church marking its rich heritage.
Henry Ford established a series of twenty village industry plants in Michigan and other states where Ford Motor’s had a presence. He started acquiring and building the small factories in 1919 until 1944, primarily in southeastern Michigan.
Port Sanilac, a historic village on Lake Huron, evolved from a lumber settlement to a vibrant harbor town. Modern attractions include a famous lighthouse, lively marina, and preserved architecture, making it a charming stop for visitors exploring Michigan’s shores.
Lakeville Michigan history unfolds through seven rare photos. See how this Oakland County village shifted from mills to summer cottages, Echo Grove Camp, and lakeside tourism.
Before automobiles, Michigan’s interurban electric railways addressed transportation challenges in small towns, offering reliable, affordable travel and freight services, thus connecting communities, enhancing local economies, and transforming daily life until the rise of cars in the 1920s.
