History of Milan Michigan – 13 Amazing Photos Reveal How The Wabash Railroad Built a Working Town
Milan, Michigan, began as a small farm settlement along the Saline River. By the early 1900s, it had become something
Continue reading
Tag: Michigan History
This tag hints at articles and stories about Michigan history and the Michigan Thumb region. Michigan was part of the Northwest territory, and starting in 1815, the fur trade and influx of settlers and land speculators began.
By the time Michigan became a state in 1838, much of the southern third was already cris-crossed with improved Indian trails and initial roads. In a few short years, the lumbering era would begin, followed by the agriculture growth resulting from the cleared land.
History Of Grand Haven Michigan – 20 Rare Photos Showing How This Lake Port Became A Beloved Beach Town
The History of Grand Haven Michigan is more than a beach story. Early images show a working Lake Michigan port shaped by factories, railroads, passenger steamers, fishing tugs, courthouse business, public ceremonies and a downtown built for trade.
Continue reading
Brief History of Waterford and Drayton Plains – Mills, Rails and Lake Life in Old Oakland County
Vintage postcards of Waterford and Drayton Plains show a lost era of Oakland County life, from mills and depots to lake cottages, stores, schools and the Drayton Theatre.
Continue reading
White Rock Michigan History – Amazing 1842 Map Labels “Zappapoiton” and “Zappapoie River” Near White Rock.
An 1842 map marked “Zappapoiton” and “Zappapoie River” at present-day White Rock. The stream is now Elm Creek. This piece explains the labels, the location, and why the names disappeared.
Continue reading
History of Bad Axe Michigan – How a Place With a Strange Name Became a Center of Huron County
Bad Axe grew from a rough lumber settlement into the center of Michigan’s Thumb. This Michigan Moments feature looks at the railroad era, downtown businesses, fairs, farming, and local legends.
Continue reading
The Muskegon Street Car Riot of 1919 – Video From Rare Photos
On Aug. 5, 1919, Muskegon exploded over a one-cent fare increase. The Muskegon Traction Company raised streetcar fares from six
Continue reading
Ravenna Michigan History: 7 Powerful Images That Show a 1900s Town in Transition
Ravenna Michigan history comes into focus through rare early 1900s images. See how this Muskegon County town adapted after the lumber era with mills, railroads, and small-town grit.
Continue reading
History of Holt Michigan – 10 Rare Photos Showing This Quiet Town Thrived Near Lansing
The history of Holt Michigan highlights a small town shaped by farming, interurban rail, and steady growth. Located near Lansing, Holt developed at its own pace, maintaining its identity while adapting to change across the early 20th century.
Continue reading