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.
Experience the profound legacy of Native American tribes in Michigan. Their vibrant cultural heritage echoes in every corner of the state, from the thriving agriculture to the dynamic art scene. We discovered Native American collections in nine Michigan museums that are worth a visit.
A task for all early pioneers in Michigan was to make a log cabin. The Bad Axe Historical Society is the curator of the largest collection of authentically restored pioneer log buildings in the state.
General stores in Michigan were integral to developing small towns across the state during the late 1800s. Plus, their front facades were so interesting. We look at several in this photo essay.
The times of greatest shipbuilding in the Great Lakes region was during the lumbering era. From 1839 until the early 1890s, the virgin old-growth Michigan forests were cut down to produce lumber for growing towns and cities in the lower Great Lakes. Michigan was the nation’s leading lumber producer from 1869 until about 1900. The only way to transport finished milled lumber from the shore side mills in the Great Lakes was by ship.
An obscure story in the Detroit Free Press in 1900 offers a fantastic tale of a prehistoric race, long assumed to be from Central America, who took refuge in Michigan’s Thumb when the region was still an island.
Discover the enchanting world of Michigan’s covered bridges as you journey through history, exploring picturesque landscapes, and experiencing the state’s heritage on this unforgettable road trip.
The Oakland Hotel is a beloved St. Clair, Michigan treasure, offering guests an unforgettable glimpse into the town’s rich history and architectural heritage. From its early days as a bustling hub for tourists and industrial workers to its current status as a beautifully restored and modernized landmark, the hotel remains a vital part of the community’s identity.
In the mid-19th century, J. Jenks set forth on a journey that would not only change his life but also shape the future of Michigan’s Huron coast. A true pioneer and entrepreneur, he became a driving force behind the development of lumber, salt, milling, commercial, and agricultural industries in the region. Jenks’ legacy lives on today through his thriving business, J. Jenks & Co., and his contributions to the growth and prosperity of Sanilac and Huron Counties.
