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.
Albert E. Sleeper, a prominent figure in Michigan history, served as governor from 1917-1921 and left a lasting impact. He was instrumental in establishing the State Police of Michigan and the Michigan State Park System. The Albert E. Sleeper House, built in 1917, holds historical significance. Despite its current state of disuse, Sleeper’s legacy endures in Michigan’s parks and history.
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In the mid to late 1800s steamships traveling on the Great Lakes were the only way to get to most cities.
Cruising via paddlewheel steamer gave rise to our northern Michigan tourism industry and the start of the term “Going Up North” Prior to the railroads and automobiles.
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George W. Jenks, a figure of significance in the Michigan Thumb region, lived a life intertwined with history. From his early days as a Civil War soldier to his prosperous business endeavors, Jenks made an indelible mark. This article delves into his life, highlighting his service and entrepreneurial spirit, providing insights into a fascinating chapter of Michigan’s past
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We explore the intriguing life of Jeremiah Jenks, a Michigan pioneer whose vision transformed the Thumb region. His story is a blend of entrepreneurship and community, shaping the very heart of Michigan’s history.
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Indigenous Peoples of Michigan, the Anishinabeg, view the White Rock on the edge of the Lake Huron shore as a sacred site. The rock was much, much larger than it appears today. (Which is 2019 is mostly underwater). The Indian ensured that fresh game and food items were placed on the site as an offering. Gitchie Manitou or Great Spirit would recognize the offering by the Anishinabeg as a token of thanks for the bounty and richness of the peninsula.
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In 1909 the Michigan state legislature changed the name of Bad Axe to Huron subject to a referendum of the voters of the city. That vote has yet to happen.
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Experience the profound legacy of Native American tribes in Michigan. Their vibrant cultural heritage echoes in every corner of the state, from the thriving agriculture to the dynamic art scene. We discovered Native American collections in nine Michigan museums that are worth a visit.
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The times of greatest shipbuilding in the Great Lakes region was during the lumbering era. From 1839 until the early 1890s, the virgin old-growth Michigan forests were cut down to produce lumber for growing towns and cities in the lower Great Lakes. Michigan was the nation’s leading lumber producer from 1869 until about 1900. The only way to transport finished milled lumber from the shore side mills in the Great Lakes was by ship.
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