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.

Pointe Aux Barques Depot Preserves a Powerful Slice of Michigan History

Posted on April 11, 2025April 11, 2025 by Michael Hardy

This early 1900s photo captures the rural railroad depot at Pointe Aux Barques, Michigan, taken by Louis James Pesha. The

Stanton’s Cottages – A Charming Port Austin Roadside Resort History From the 1940s

Posted on April 9, 2025April 9, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Stanton’s Cottages was a small tourist resort of rustic cabins located along M-25 (formerly US-25) about two miles west of

Carl Peets’ Fishing Parties in Caseville – A Look Back at Michigan’s Fishing Party Boat Days

Posted on April 9, 2025April 9, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Carl Peets was a familiar name along the Pigeon River in Caseville during the postwar years, known for running daily

The Sinking of the Fishing Tug Searchlight – Harbor Beach’s Worst Fishing Tragedy

Posted on April 8, 2025April 8, 2025 by Michael Hardy

On April 23, 1907, the fishing tug Searchlight capsized in a storm off Harbor Beach, resulting in the loss of all six crew members. This tragedy shocked the community and remains a grim chapter in Huron County’s fishing history.

Exploring the 1837 Michigan Map “Acting Superintendency of Michigan”

Posted on April 3, 2025April 6, 2025 by Michael Hardy

In September 1837, Henry Rowe Schoolcraft created a manuscript map of Michigan illustrating Indigenous nations, U.S. Indian agency posts, military forts, and reservations. It reflects the aftermath of the 1836 treaty, detailing tribal bands, populations, and significant geographic changes.

Day of the Soo Locks Disaster — 1909’s Maritime Meltdown at Sault Ste. Marie

Posted on March 31, 2025March 31, 2025 by Michael Hardy

On June 9, 1909, a mechanical failure at Canada’s Soo Locks led to the sinking of two ships, halting Great Lakes commercial traffic. This disaster exposed infrastructure vulnerabilities, prompting modernization efforts and highlighting potential economic repercussions from similar incidents today.

Smith-Culhane House – The Stunning Port Austin Victorian Home From 1871

Posted on March 20, 2025March 27, 2025 by Michael Hardy

The Smith-Culhane House, a historic 150-year-old Victorian home in Port Austin, Michigan, reflects the region’s lumber boom heritage. Once a family residence, it now serves as a private home after its revival into a Bed and Breakfast, preserving local history and architecture.

The Elkton School Fire – The Dreadful 1930 Blaze That Changed a Michigan Town

Posted on March 17, 2025May 31, 2026 by Michael Hardy

On the evening of December 14, 1930, Elkton residents were jolted by cries that the schoolhouse was on fire. As

Michigan’s Lakeside Inn Port Austin – Beloved Hotel, Speakeasy and Entertainment Venue That Ended in Flames

Posted on March 7, 2025May 21, 2025 by Michael Hardy

The Lakeside Inn in Port Austin, Michigan, served as a courthouse, Prohibition speakeasy, and big band hotspot before its fiery demise in 1967.

Lake Huron Shipwrecks: 5 Lost Vessels That Still Haunt the Great Lakes

Posted on February 28, 2025March 29, 2025 by Michael Hardy

The waters near Michigan’s Thumb are home to many shipwrecks, including notable incidents like the Philadelphia and Albany collision. This area, once a vital shipping route, is now an underwater preserve safeguarding maritime history and mysteries of the Great Lakes.