Northeast Lower Peninsula

Game, Set, Surprise History is full of battles fought with muskets, swords, and strategy. But, every now and then, a lacrosse stick plays a role too. Read more about the Ojibwe capture of Fort Michilimackinac. On June 2, 1763, a sunny spring day at Fort Michilimackinac turned into a pivotal moment in Pontiac’s Rebellion. The fort is perched on the northern edge of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. British soldiers stationed at the fort were relaxed and unsuspecting. They were enjoying watching a friendly game of baggatiway (an early form of lacrosse) played by local Ojibwe warriors outside the gates. But this… Read More »

Alpena Business District Devastated On April 9, 1871, the city of Alpena experienced one of its most destructive disasters. A massive fire that consumed much of its business district. The fire started at the Guild and Clewey’s billiard saloon on the north shore of the Thunder Bay River. It quickly spread to Fletcher Street and down to 2nd Avenue. The result was the loss of several commercial buildings. The Star Hotel, Evergreen Hall, and Bolton and McRae’s store were total losses. At the time, Alpena was a growing community that had just incorporated as a city less than two weeks… Read More »

A Journey Through History and Nature The North Central State Trail in Michigan is more than just a pathway through the state’s scenic landscapes; it’s a journey through history, following the tracks of the once-bustling Michigan Central Railroad. This 74.9-mile trail stretches from Waters to Mackinaw City, winding through some of Michigan’s most beautiful scenery and welcoming communities. Today, this historic rail line has transformed into a beloved recreational trail, offering activities for all seasons. A Glimpse into Railroad History Established in 1882 by the Michigan Central Railroad, the rail line that is now the North Central State Trail was… Read More »

Where the Cold Rewrote State History Nestled in the heart of Otsego County, Vanderbilt is a quaint village with a big claim to fame. While its 2020 population of just 498 might suggest a sleepy town, Vanderbilt is anything but ordinary. It was here, on February 9, 1934, that Michigan experienced its coldest recorded temperature: a bone-chilling −51°F (−46°C). Let’s take a closer look at the fascinating history behind this frosty feat and the town that holds the title. A Snapshot of Vanderbilt’s History Vanderbilt’s story began in 1875 when the Michigan Central Railroad planned to extend north from Gaylord…. Read More »

A Legacy of Leadership, Heritage, and Friendship Chief David Shoppenagon, born on July 1, 1809, along the Tittabawassee River near Saginaw, Michigan, lived a life that seamlessly bridged two worlds. As a proud member of the Chippewa Tribe, he upheld his cultural traditions while becoming a respected figure among Michigan’s early settlers. This article revisits his incredible journey, originally shared in 2022, with a fresh look at the man affectionately known as “Shop.” Early Life Born into the Chippewa Tribe in the Green Point area near Saginaw, Shoppenagon spent his early years living close to nature. He believed that living… Read More »

A Prolific Voice of American Literature Jim Harrison (1937–2016) remains one of the most celebrated figures in American literature, weaving poetic lyricism with gritty, earthbound storytelling. Born in Grayling, Michigan, and passing in Patagonia, Arizona, Harrison’s work encapsulates the human struggle between nature and modernity. Renowned for his novellas, novels, essays, poetry, and screenplays, Harrison’s prolific output—spanning more than 30 books—cements his place alongside literary greats like Ernest Hemingway and William Faulkner. Early Life and Influences Jim Harrison’s formative years in rural Michigan laid the foundation for his deep connection to the natural world. Born to avid readers, his upbringing… Read More »

On November 1, 1973, Michigan celebrated a significant milestone in its transportation history with the completion of Interstate 75 (I-75). Stretching 395 miles from the Ohio border near Toledo to Sault Ste. Marie, I-75 stands as the longest expressway in Michigan and one of the most important highways in the state. This vital corridor connects the southern and northern regions of Michigan, making road trips and travel across the state faster and more convenient. The Journey to Completion The journey to completing I-75 began in 1957, when construction crews broke ground on this ambitious project. By 1959, signs marking the… Read More »

A Historic Gem Serving the Community Nestled along the serene shores of Mullett Lake, the Topinabee Public Library has been at the heart of its community for generations. Located at 1576 North Straits Highway, this charming library not only serves the residents of Mullett Township and part of Burt Township, but it also provides a unique blend of history and community spirit from a building that once welcomed trains, not books. A Look Back in Time Topinabee’s history dates back to 1881 when the Michigan Central Railroad had plans to turn this picturesque spot into a resort destination. H.H. Pike,… Read More »

An Iconic Engineering Marvel On November 1, 1957, the Mackinac Bridge officially opened to traffic, marking a monumental achievement in engineering despite the many challenges posed by the turbulent Straits of Mackinac. Spanning an impressive 26,372 feet, this iconic bridge connects Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas and stands as a testament to human ingenuity and determination. The Specs Its total length is 5 miles, or 26,372 feet. The main towers rise 552 feet above the water. The roadway sits 199 feet above the water at midspan. There are 42,000 miles of wire in the main cables. The cables weigh 11,840… Read More »

Michigan’s Northern Lower Peninsula is steeped in ghostly tales, from haunted lighthouses and inns to eerie forests and islands. These historic locations hide chilling stories of tragic deaths, paranormal encounters, and spirits that refuse to rest. Northeast Lower Peninsula Old Presque Isle Lighthouse After George Parris died, his widow saw an impossible light glowing from the disconnected lantern room. Many believe it’s George’s way of keeping the lighthouse’s spirit alive. Anchor Inn (Houghton Lake) Paranormal investigators have reported shadowy figures, moving objects, and even a vortex at the front of this 100-year-old building. Pere Cheney (Roscommon) This ghost town is… Read More »

A Gem in Michigan’s Wilderness Rifle River State Recreation Area, located in Ogemaw County, Michigan, is a paradise for nature lovers. Nestled in the Au Sable State Forest, the park covers 4,449 acres of stunning wilderness, with endless opportunities for outdoor fun. Whether you’re into hiking, paddling, fishing, swimming, or biking, this park has it all. The area boasts 10 no-wake lakes and ponds, including scenic Grousehaven and Devoe Lakes, plus the picturesque Rifle River. If you want a spectacular view of the park, head to the observation tower along Ridge Road. You’ll also find a cool swinging bridge that… Read More »

Nestled in the heart of Crawford County, lies the eerie remnants of Pere Cheney. Pere Cheney was once a thriving lumber town that is now shrouded in ghostly tales and mysterious legends. Founded in 1874 by George Cheney, the village quickly grew into a bustling community. A land grant from the Michigan Central Railroad Company established a stop along the railroad. By the 1870s, Pere Cheney boasted a population of approximately 1,500 residents. There was a general store, sawmills, a hotel, and a post office. However, by 1917, this vibrant settlement had dwindled to a ghost town. The land was… Read More »