Finding Fun in Michigan's Thumb
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.
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.
Drive In theaters remained popular until VHS movies took hold of the market in the 1980’s. Yet one still remains in the Thumb. We look back.
Caseville’s Palmer Motel in 1963 was being marketed as a good vacation spot to get away from the hectic rush of the modern world.
Today the building remains as a reminder of the rustic era of tourism in Caseville.
The year is 1912. An exclusive modern resort community is opened at the tip of Michigan’s thumb with direct train service from Detroit.
Pontiac, Oxford & Northern Railroad (P.O. & N) ran from September 1889 until the last service run of the full length of the line on February 9, 1984.
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.