News History & Fun in Michigan
It’s our focus and a favorite spot in the world. Michigans Thumb is a region and a peninsula of the U.S. state of Michigan, so named because the Lower Peninsula is shaped like a mitten.
We primarily cover the fascinating and unique aspects of the Upper Thumb. From Sebewaing, Bay Port, Caseville, Port Austin, Grindstone City, Harbor Beach, and Port Sanilac, this region has it all.
Caseville transformed from an industrial hub in the late 1800s, characterized by fishing and lumbering, to a modern tourist destination. Its economy shifted towards tourism, attracting visitors with beaches and events, while its industrial past remains evident in historical sites and buildings.
In 1849, Catherine Shook was appointed the first woman lighthouse keeper in the State of Michigan. She ran the Pointe Aux Barques Lighthouse until 1851.
The production of salt from the deep brine wells around the Upper Thumb propelled the fishing industry to national prominence because they could preserve fish.
In the mid 1800’s much of Michigan was wilderness. In 1857, Captain George Meade took over the Lakes Survey mission of the Great Lakes.
The Wallace Roller Mill was built in 1887 on the shore of Lake Huron. The mill was the first in the area to diversify from grindstone quarry and milling operations.
The stone structure stands today providing four vacation condos.
Bird Creek County Park in Port Austin offers a family-friendly beach experience with a fun splash pad, kayaking adventures, and stunning harbor views – all at the tip of Michigan’s Thumb.
Its also a casting off point for Turnip Rock and Broken Rocks kayaking.
In Part One of our Michigan Day Trip Around the Thumb we traveled from Port Huron up the eastern shore of Lake Huron to the tip of the Thumb. Our starting point for the second half of our adventure is in Grindstone City. We will begin heading west along Saginaw Bay’s shore of sugar sand beaches and interesting coastal towns and villages. I hope you brought your bathing suit because this side of the Thumb offers some of the best swimming beaches in Michigan.
Sebewaing, Michigan, is a picturesque small town on Saginaw Bay, offering shopping, historical sites, nature experiences, and unique attractions. Highlights include a local sugar factory, wildlife refuge, and charming downtown with antique stores.
