Things to do in the upper Thumb - for free

12 Free Things to do in Michigan’s Thumb

Posted on February 14, 2021November 11, 2021 by Michael Hardy

We went looking for over a dozen free things to in Michigan’s Thumb. This are fun for the family and only cost your time and travel.

Over 100 Growing Years of Sweet Michigan Sugar Beet History

Posted on February 12, 2021November 29, 2021 by Annette Hinshaw

After the Great Fire of 1881, Michigan Sugar Beet production took off in Mid-Michigan. Dozens of factories were built for refinement.

This article offers a detailed history of this Michigan industry.

11 Tips To Attract Orioles to Your Yard This Summer & Humming Birds too!

Posted on February 11, 2021April 24, 2024 by Malcom Mott

With a little persistence, you can attract Orioles to your yard early in the season. By summer, using these simple tips and rules of thumb, you can have this colorful resident for the entire summer season.

Tundra or Trumpeter Swan Near Oscoda? – You Decide

Posted on January 29, 2021November 12, 2021 by Michael Hardy

We were treated to an interesting treat today, which is much appreciated. Amy from Oscoda spotted a swan paddling along

Rediscovering Bach General Store – Fading Days of A Joyful 4 Corner Town

Posted on January 29, 2021July 24, 2025 by Michael Hardy

The Bach General Store, long since closed. Once the center of the community, these shops were common in the days before Walmart and Dollar General.

The Lightship Huron Still Lights the Way on the St. Clair River.

Posted on January 27, 2021March 19, 2026 by Michael Hardy

One interesting little site, located in a county park, is the Lightship Huron. Lightships are floating lighthouses that could be anchored on the lakes where it was too deep or impossible to build a lighthouse.

The Lucky History And Amazing #1 Power of the Caro Michigan Dam

Posted on January 26, 2021January 21, 2022 by Mark Putnam

The history and story behind the 115 year old Caro Michigan River Dam. It’s been a home to Native Americans and early Michigan settlers.

The Dam is falling into significant disrepair. If it fails the Cass river would become a mere creek which would greatly impact recreational boating and fishing.

Fortunately there is interest in refurbishing the historic structure.

Belle Isle State Park Works To Restore Historic Sawmill

Posted on January 22, 2021March 10, 2026 by Paul Austin

For decades, City of Detroit foresters industriously labored away in a quaint sawmill within Belle Isle Park, giving trees from streets and parks new life as usable wood after they were removed for road widening or death from disease, pests, or storms.