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.

Gladstone Michigan History – Industry, Railroads, and Life Along the Bay – Video

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Michael Hardy

At the northern edge of Little Bay de Noc stands Gladstone, Michigan. This small Upper Peninsula town played a much

Interurban Services in Michigan – 1900s Electric Vechicles Kept Small Towns Going – Video

Posted on June 10, 2025October 5, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Before automobiles, Michigan’s interurban electric railways addressed transportation challenges in small towns, offering reliable, affordable travel and freight services, thus connecting communities, enhancing local economies, and transforming daily life until the rise of cars in the 1920s.

Attica Michigan History – 8 Rare Photos That Tell a Forgotten Story – Video

Posted on June 10, 2025June 10, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Attica, Michigan, founded in 1851 around a sawmill, grew with the arrival of the railroad. The town developed modestly, fostering community life, where logging and lakeside recreation shaped its lasting identity despite economic challenges.

Huron Canning Company, Port Austin, Michigan (circa 1910)

Posted on June 9, 2025June 10, 2025 by Michael Hardy

This rare photo shows a busy moment at the Huron Canning Company in Port Austin, Michigan, established in July 1910

Unusual Rock Formation Near Oak Beach – c1935

Posted on June 9, 2025June 9, 2025 by Annette Hinshaw

The photograph depicts the now-collapsed rock arch at Loosemore Pointe, Michigan, a former attraction eroded by natural forces, preserved in this postcard as a record of the region’s geological history.

Clio Michigan 1900-1930 – Transition From Steam Whistles to Storefronts – Video

Posted on May 31, 2025June 13, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Clio, Michigan transformed from a farming outpost to an industrial hub in the early 20th century, marked by a vital railroad, local trade, and evolving community institutions, reflecting its enduring spirit and history.

5 Forgotten Michigan Coal Towns – A Great Lakes Mining Story

Posted on May 27, 2025June 13, 2026 by Michael Hardy

Michigan discovered coal near Jackson in the 1830s. Further north coal operations started near Saginaw in the 1850s. Peaking during WWI, Sebewaing had coal mining operations up until the early 1900’s. The last coal mine was closed in 1952.

Celebrating Elkton Michigan History – Photos and Moments That Shaped a Small Town’s Identity – Video

Posted on May 24, 2025June 25, 2026 by Michael Hardy

In the late 1800s, Elkton, Michigan, emerged as a frontier village, thriving on agriculture and the railroad. Post-fire in 1930, the community rebuilt its school, showcasing resilience. Elkton symbolizes small-town life shaped by farming, local businesses, and social events.

The Mysterious Bruce Mansion of Burnside

Posted on May 23, 2025March 20, 2026 by Michael Hardy

Detroit Paranormal Expeditions announced new paranormal investigation dates throughout October at Bruce Mansion in Brown City, Michigan.

A Day in the Life of Capac Michigan 1912 – Video

Posted on May 22, 2025May 22, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Step back to 1912 Michigan! Our new 3-minute mini-documentary takes you to historic Capac Michigan – from the grand Palmer