All of Northern Michigan

October in Northern Michigan is a month of vivid colors, crisp air, and a surprising number of historic milestones. From the rise of copper mining and political firsts to national parks, epic concerts, and feats of engineering, the stories of this month remind us that Michigan’s past is as rich and varied as its autumn landscapes. Here are some key events that shaped Northern Michigan history in October. October in Northern Michigan History October 3, 1980 – Somewhere in Time Premiers The movie Somewhere in Time, filmed on Mackinac Island, opened in theaters nationwide. Starring Christopher Reeve, Jane Seymour, and… Read More »

Douglass Houghton and Michigan’s Copper Discovery On this day in history, October 14, 1845 Dr. Douglass Houghton died at just 36 years old. He was Michigan’s pioneering state geologist and the man often called the “father of copper mining in the United States.” In 1840, Houghton conducted a detailed survey of the Upper Peninsula’s mineral resources. His 1841 report included more than 27 pages on copper and copper ore, famously noting that “the copper ores are not only of superior quality, but also that their associations are such as to render them easily reduced.” He even observed that the ore… Read More »

On this day in history, Stevens T. Mason was elected the State of Michigan’s first state governor at the age of 23. He is remembered as the “Boy Governor,” Stevens T. Mason’s remarkable political story started when he was appointed acting territorial secretary at just 19 years old by President Andrew Jackson. His youth, determination, and ambition made him a defining figure in Michigan’s journey from territory to statehood. Politics In His Blood Born in 1811, Mason had politics in his blood. His father, John Mason, was appointed territorial secretary by Jackson. When Jackson sent the elder Mason to Mexico… Read More »

September has always been a month of transformation and milestones in Northern Michigan. From early explorations and territorial changes to the founding of schools and traditions that still thrive today, this month captures a rich slice of the region’s story. Whether it’s the peaceful transfer of Mackinac Island to American control or the birth of beloved fairs and institutions, September’s history reflects the resilience, innovation, and community spirit that define Northern Michigan. September in Northern Michigan History September 1, 1796 – Mackinac Island becomes part of U.S. On this day, British forces finally evacuated Fort Mackinac after holding it for… Read More »

August in Northern Michigan isn’t just about sun-soaked shorelines and cherry harvests—it’s a month rich with fascinating stories from the past. From ambitious settlers and powerful treaties to underwater memorials and legendary lumberjacks, history left its mark all across the region during this warm and vibrant time of year. Here’s a look back at the events that shaped Augusts of years gone by. August in Northern Michigan History August 1, 1856 – Horton Bay Settled Samuel Horton, with his family and the sailing vessel Rover, landed on the shores of what is now Horton Bay. As the first white settlers… Read More »

🚗🚢 Michigan’s First State Ferry Service Ariel made her maiden voyage Before the Mackinac Bridge connected Michigan’s peninsulas, crossing the Straits of Mackinac was a challenge. This was true especially for the growing number of automobile owners in the early 20th century. On July 31, 1923, the State of Michigan stepped in to solve this problem by launching a state-operated ferry service. The ferry service would soon become an essential lifeline for travelers and commerce alike. A week after the service was officially established, on August 6, 1923, the first car ferry—the wooden-hulled Ariel—made her maiden voyage across the straits…. Read More »

When it comes to state flags, Michigan’s is more than just a blue field and some fancy heraldry. It is a patchwork of forgotten history, political pride, and a moose with very strong side-eye. On August 1, 1911, the Great Lakes State officially adopted the flag we know today, complete with its now-iconic coat of arms. But this wasn’t the first flag to represent Michigan. Far from it. In fact, the state has had three official flags. The stories behind the first two are as colorful as the designs themselves. A Flag with Wildlife—and Latin The current Michigan state flag… Read More »

Fascinating Moments from Northern Michigan’s Past July in Northern Michigan is more than sunshine and beach days—it’s packed with fascinating stories that shaped the region and the nation. From iron ore shipments that powered industrial America to a castle that once echoed with rock concerts, this month brings a treasure trove of tales. Whether you’re a history buff, a curious traveler, or just someone who loves a good story, these noteworthy July events from Michigan’s past are sure to captivate and inspire. July in Northern Michigan History July 1, 1882 – Passage Island Lighthouse Lit for the First Time The… Read More »

Michigan’s State Car Ferry Service Launches Across the Straits of Mackinac On July 31, 1923, Michigan officially launched its state car ferry service across the Straits of Mackinac. This forever changed transportation between the Upper and Lower Peninsulas. The initial ferry, named Ariel, was a modest riverboat that could carry only 20 cars. Despite its small size, it marked the beginning of an essential connection for residents and travelers before the Mackinac Bridge was even a dream. The Ariel had a history of its own — previously serving between Walkerville, Ontario, and Detroit. After its debut on the Straits route,… Read More »

Andrew Jackson Blackbird helps negotiate treaty July 31 marks an important date in the history of the Odawa (Ottawa) and Chippewa (Ojibwa) peoples of Michigan. The “Treaty with the Ottawa and Chippewa” was signed on July 31, 1855. The treaty established key land rights and protections for Native communities in the region. One of the central figures in this historic moment was Andrew Jackson Blackbird. He legacy still resonates today as an Odawa leader, interpreter, and historian. Andrew J. Blackbird (c. 1815 – 1908) was a remarkable man born in the L’Arbre Croche area—now known as Harbor Springs, Michigan. He… Read More »

The Pride Beneath Our Feet On July 18, 1991 a crowd of over 150 conservationists, environmental leaders, and government officials gathered in Kalkaska County. They were there to honor a quiet but vital part of Michigan’s natural heritage.  Honoring Kalkaska Sand, officially designated as Michigan’s State Soil. Now, you might not think soil is something to throw a party over. But when it comes to Kalkaska Sand, it’s more than just dirt. It is a living, breathing part of Michigan’s ecosystem and economy. First identified and mapped in 1927, Kalkaska Sand is found in both the Upper and Lower Peninsulas…. Read More »

June in Northern Michigan is more than beach days and budding cherry trees. June is a month packed with historic firsts, cultural shifts, and bold moments that shaped our region. From Native leadership and colonial pageantry to ship launches, state symbols, and epic political showdowns, this month has seen some unforgettable chapters written into the Great Lakes story. Each event listed below carries its own legacy, showcasing the diversity of people, ideas, and actions that have defined life “up north” for centuries. June in Northern Michigan History June 1, 1849 The Founding of Waukazooville Chief Waukazoo led his Ottawa band… Read More »