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.

Emil Baur Gave Relief to the Indians at Ora Labora After 1871 Great Fire

Posted on April 30, 2020November 11, 2024 by Michael Hardy

In October of 1871, a great forest fire swept across much of the Thumb region including the section of Michigan that included the lands of the former colony of Ora Labora. The colony was in the process of being disbanded and the lands sold off, but large holdings remained including some cabins and buildings. The colony’s benefactor and primary landowner, the Harmony Society immediately sent $200 for distribution among the needy.

The Lumbering Era in Caseville, Michigan – River Hogs Conquer The Spring Log Run

Posted on April 28, 2020March 10, 2026 by Malcom Mott

In spring, the winter logging operations ended, and the long run to the sawmill began. In this picture, two men, called River Hogs, worked to keep the logs moving along the Pigeon River to the sawmill in Caseville. The work took skill and was dangerous. River Hogs were paid up to $3.50 per day.

The Hard Core Stone Workers at Grindstone City Michigan 1920s

Posted on April 23, 2020March 10, 2026 by Peter Rossi

From the 1830s until the 1910s, Grindstone City Michigan produced the premier grinding wheels in the United States. In 1888, the Cleveland Stone Co. Purchased the property owned by Worthington and Sons and became the sole owner of all quarry properties.

Category: History

Emil Baur Gave Relief to the Indians at Ora Labora After 1871 Great Fire

The Lumbering Era in Caseville, Michigan – River Hogs Conquer The Spring Log Run

The Hard Core Stone Workers at Grindstone City Michigan 1920s

Quarry Works in Grindstone City 1920s

Michigan’s Warmest Decade In 125 Years

The Pioneer Sketches of Jacob Parkhurst

The Last Time A Michigan Governor Shutdown the State Due to a Pandemic

Michigan’s Experience with Pandemics – Infographic