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.

10 Tales About Michigan Indian Tribes You Were Never Taught in School

Posted on March 14, 2023March 28, 2026 by Michael Hardy

Ten tales of historical tales from Michigan Indian Tribes that were never taught in school. Several were from Andrew Blackbird’s 1887 book.

Uncovering the Rich History of 8 Native American Settlements of the Great Lakes Region

Posted on February 7, 2023April 23, 2026 by Michael Hardy

The Great Lakes region of North America was home to numerous Native American settlements before European explorers and settlers arrived. These settlements were established by various indigenous tribes and served as centers of trade, culture, and community life.

Quanicassee Michigan’s Jenny, The Beer Drinking Bear

Posted on January 12, 2023June 3, 2026 by Michael Hardy

In the 1900s Michigan was known for its roadside attractions to draw tourists to stop. An early attraction in the Thumb region was Jenny, the Beer Drinking Bear in Quanicassee.

Bay Port Fish Co. in 1996 – A Retrospective

Posted on December 10, 2022December 17, 2022 by Michael Hardy

I have a great collection of pictures my parents took of the Upper Thumb region in the 1980s and 90s.

Tuscola County Public Transportation – History Is Moving In The Thumb

Posted on November 14, 2022November 17, 2022 by Mark Putnam

Public transportation services in Tuscola County Michigan has evolved from oxcart, stagecoach, rail and bus. We look back at its evolution.

Mystery of the Remains of An Michigan Indian Chief Found Near Bay Port In 1933

Posted on November 14, 2022October 29, 2024 by Michael Hardy

In the 1920s, there was a flurry of archaeological activity in Michigan to record and catalog Native American villages, garden beds, and burial mounds. As a result, the entire Saginaw Valley has 100s of identified sites. The identification, and looting, of Indian artifacts from burial mounds, was a common occurrence.

Michigan Genealogy – 10 Million Records Available To Family Tree Researchers Online

Posted on November 13, 2022March 26, 2025 by Malcom Mott

Those researching Michigan Genealogy have a new resource provided by the Archives of Michigan and the Michigan DNR. Over 10 million records including death and naturalization records, which family researchers use to learn more about their family’s history.

A Fascinating Story of The Hitching Post Inn Elkton Mi (It Has A Twin!)

Posted on September 20, 2022March 16, 2025 by Michael Hardy

From time to time, we like to visit the Hitching Post in Elkton. It’s a great place to stop after a round of golf at Century Oaks. It’s a great place to grab a proper bar burger. It’s a fascinating old building with strange stained glass in many windows. I always wondered about the history of this building and what role it played in the community.