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.

Pine Mountain Ski Jump – Iron Mountain’s 1943 Spectacle

Posted on July 22, 2026July 22, 2026 by Michael Hardy

A 1943 photograph records packed hillsides, bumper-to-bumper cars and fearless athletes at Pine Mountain Ski Jump in Iron Mountain, Michigan.

History of Ironwood, Michigan — Built by Iron Ore Mining and Community.

Posted on July 22, 2026August 4, 2026 by Michael Hardy

Historic images show how iron mines, railroads, immigrant families, winter weather and busy downtown streets shaped Ironwood in Michigan’s western Upper Peninsula.

Ironwood Homesteads: Michigan’s New Deal Town of 1936

Posted on July 22, 2026July 22, 2026 by Michael Hardy

A federal New Deal program built 132 homes north of Ironwood for mining families facing poor housing and unstable work during the Great Depression.

Wakefield Michigan Iron Mining History – Life in a Boomtown (1890–1940)

Posted on July 21, 2026July 22, 2026 by Michael Hardy

Historic images show Wakefield during its iron-mining era, from workers 1,800 feet underground to Main Street stores, Cody Park and the 1919 parade that marked its rise from village to city.

Pointe aux Barques Heritage Festival Marks 60 Years Since Daniel J. Morrell Sinking

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

The Pointe aux Barques Heritage Festival returns Saturday, Aug. 1, with lighthouse tower climbs, museum tours, maritime history programs, vendors, food and live music. The free event will also mark 60 years since the sinking of the Daniel J. Morrell.

Wacousta Michigan History: Life Along the Looking Glass River (1900–1950)

Posted on July 20, 2026July 24, 2026 by Michael Hardy

Historic photographs show how the Looking Glass River, local mills, churches, schools and small businesses shaped life in Wacousta, Michigan.

The Gentle History of Hubbardston Michigan – The Mill Town That Missed the Railroad (1837-1950)

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

Hubbardston rose on mills, timber and Irish settlement, then stalled when promised railroad tracks never arrived. Its grist mill, church and Fish Creek bridge still explain the town’s unusual path.

Pontiac’s War in Michigan – Detroit Under Siege, a Lacrosse Ruse, and the 1763 Proclamation – Podcast

Posted on July 13, 2026July 13, 2026 by Agatha Quickly

In 1763, Pontiac’s War ignited across Michigan and the Great Lakes. This was no ordinary rebellion — it was a coordinated Indigenous resistance that forced the British Empire to change its policies forever.

History of Alma Michigan – Early 20th Century Industrial and WWI Powerhouse – Video

Posted on July 11, 2026July 11, 2026 by Agatha Quickly

How did a small Midwestern town supply sugar, trucks, and food to help win the Great War? Discover the remarkable history of Alma, Michigan’s industrial boom and its unsung contributions to World War I. Hear the stories of factory workers, farmers, and entrepreneurs who proved that even the smallest town could make a big difference.

Kalkaska Fire of 1908: How Downtown Rose From the Ashes

Posted on July 11, 2026July 11, 2026 by Michael Hardy

A wind-driven fire swept through downtown Kalkaska on July 5, 1908, destroying major businesses and forcing the village to rebuild with safer brick buildings.