Welcome to our Michigan Moments series, bringing you captivating glimpses into the fascinating history and charming communities across Michigan’s Thumb region and beyond. Each reel takes you on a journey through Michigan’s rich past, showcasing the stories, people, and events that have shaped our local heritage. Dive into these short yet informative videos, perfect for history enthusiasts, local residents, and curious visitors alike.

Below, you’ll find links and brief descriptions to each featured video.

Michigan Moments Interactive Map

Explore our Michigan Moments on the interactive Google Map, pinpointing each featured town and historic site, and offering easy access to each video.

Akron

Akron was established as a thriving agricultural hub in Michigan’s Thumb. Its early days saw bustling farms and vibrant community activities. Today, it retains much of its historical charm and rural character.

Applegate

Applegate began as a small but significant railroad village. The town’s growth revolved around the transportation of goods and people. Historical landmarks from this railroad era still remain.

Brown City

Brown City developed rapidly due to its strategic location and strong agricultural economy. The city became a bustling center of commerce and local trade. Many historical buildings reflect its prosperous past.

Captured U-Boat Tour

An intriguing look at Michigan’s remarkable connection to WWII history through a touring German U-Boat.

Carsonville

Carsonville’s agricultural heritage is central to its history. The village grew around farming communities and related businesses. Today, its historical charm attracts visitors and history buffs.

Caro

Caro, the heart of Tuscola County, is rich in historic sites and buildings. Its role as a regional center shaped its economic and social history. Landmarks such as the courthouse still tell Caro’s story.

Columbiaville

Take a three-minute visual journey through Columbiaville, Michigan, in the early 1900s. Featuring rare images of the woolen mills, opera house, train depot, and bustling Water Street, this narrated short film captures the rhythm of small-town life shaped by rail, river, and community. A glimpse into the past — steady, proud, and uniquely Michigan.

Coy Block – Unionville

Delving into the dramatic history behind Unionville’s iconic Coy Block and its influential founder.

Fairgrove

Discover Fairgrove’s legacy as a key center for commerce and agriculture in Michigan’s Thumb.

Forestville

Forestville boasts a rich maritime and logging history. The village flourished thanks to lumber and shipping industries. Historical sites today commemorate its vibrant past.

Gagetown

A glimpse into Gagetown’s vibrant past, featuring community milestones and historical landmarks.

Great Photos Of Michigan’s Thumb

This reel showcases a collection of historical photographs capturing life in Michigan’s Thumb region. The images provide insights into the area’s cultural and economic development over the years. Viewers can appreciate the rich heritage and transformations of these communities through visual storytelling.

Great Photos Of Michigan’s Thumb II

Continuing the visual journey, this reel presents additional historical photographs from Michigan’s Thumb. The curated images highlight everyday life, significant events, and architectural changes in the region. The collection serves as a valuable resource for understanding the area’s past.

Hubbard Lake

Exploring Hubbard Lake’s serene beauty and its historical significance to local tourism.

Kinde

Kinde was historically vital to Huron County’s economy and culture. It thrived on agriculture, local commerce, and community spirit. Its history is preserved in local museums and landmarks.

Kilmanagh

Kilmanagh features a rich history of early settlement and notable residents. The community quickly became a focal point of rural life. Many historical remnants still offer insight into its past.

Kingston

Kingston’s history includes vibrant community growth and regional influence. The town’s development was supported by commerce and agriculture. Historical sites remain to showcase this heritage.

Marlette

Marlette grew significantly due to railroad connectivity and agriculture. Its economic prosperity led to notable community developments. Today, its historical narrative continues through well-preserved sites.

Marysville

Marysville’s history is closely linked to Great Lakes shipping and industry. Its strategic location fostered significant industrial growth. Maritime heritage sites remain prominent today.

Marlette Depot

The Marlette Depot was critical to local transportation and community life. It connected Marlette to wider markets and facilitated local growth. Historical preservation efforts keep its legacy alive.

Michigan General Stores

General stores were central to rural Michigan life, providing goods and community gathering spots. This reel explores their cultural significance and historical charm. Many original stores are still preserved.

Michigan Small Towns

Celebrating Michigan’s smallest towns and their outsized impact on state history.

Michigan First’s

Explore historical “firsts” that put Michigan towns prominently on the map. These pioneering moments illustrate local innovation and influence. Each milestone shaped Michigan’s broader historical narrative.

Millington

Established in 1855, Millington began as a lumbering community in Tuscola County. The arrival of the railroad spurred economic growth, connecting the village to larger markets. Today, Millington retains its small-town charm while honoring its rich history through local museums and community events

Owendale

Highlighting Owendale’s development and its contributions to regional agriculture and commerce.

Palms

Exploring the quiet history of Palms, emphasizing its railway roots and community growth.

Pinnebog

A snapshot of Pinnebog’s historical roots and its enduring rural charm.

Port Sanilac

Originally known as Bark Shanty, Port Sanilac was established in the 1840s as a lumberjack settlement. The construction of docks in 1857 and the Port Sanilac Lighthouse in 1886 bolstered its maritime importance. Today, the village preserves its history through museums and restored historic buildings.

Reese

Uncover the unique history of Reese, including its significance to regional trade and agriculture.

Rose Island Resort

Exploring the rich history of Rose Island Resort, once a popular vacation destination.

Snover

Highlighting the history and quiet charm of Snover, rooted in farming and local traditions.

Wacousta

Discover the fascinating historical evolution of Wacousta through captivating imagery.

Unionville

Delving deeper into Unionville’s history, emphasizing its heritage buildings and community legacy.

Final Thought

Thank you for exploring Michigan Moments. We hope these reels deepen your appreciation for Michigan’s unique history and inspire you to visit these charming towns. Check back regularly for new videos and continue to share our journey through Michigan’s vibrant past.