On This Day in History

Emelia Schaub’s Remarkable Journey Emelia Christine Schaub (1891–1995) was more than just a lawyer; she was a pioneer who broke barriers for women in law and advocated for justice throughout her life. As Michigan’s first elected female prosecutor and the first woman in the U.S. to successfully defend a murder trial, her legacy resonates deeply in both the legal profession and her Leelanau County community Early Life and Roots in Leelanau County Born in 1891 in a log cabin in Centerville Township, Michigan, Emelia was the eldest of eight children. Her family, early settlers in Provemont (now Lake Leelanau), operated… Read More »

A History of Abolition and Reflection Michigan holds a unique place in history as the first English-speaking government to abolish the death penalty for ordinary crimes. This landmark decision, made by the state legislature in 1846, marked the beginning of a progressive stance against capital punishment. While the death penalty remained on the books for treason until 1963, Michigan has not executed anyone since it achieved statehood in 1837. A Brief History of Executions in Michigan From its earliest days as part of New France to its time under British and U.S. jurisdiction, Michigan saw 13 executions between 1683 and… Read More »

A Gem of Hockey History Nestled near the northern tip of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in the heart of “Copper Country” lies an unassuming yet legendary sheet of ice—the Calumet Colosseum. Built in 1913, this historic structure holds the title of the oldest continuously operating ice rink in North America. It serves as a living testament to the enduring love of hockey in this tight-knit community. A Rink Built for the Ages Construction of the Calumet Colosseum began in 1913, with its grand opening on January 1, 1914. Just five days later, the first game was played between two local teams:… Read More »

A Quirky Tradition That Keeps Language Fresh Since 1976, Lake Superior State University (LSSU) has kicked off every New Year with a beloved tradition: the Banished Words List. This lighthearted annual event takes aim at words and phrases that are overused, misused, or downright annoying, giving the world a fresh linguistic start. From “you know” to “user-friendly,” the list has banished hundreds of expressions. This is thanks to clever nominations from people around the globe. The tradition was born at a New Year’s Eve party in 1975 when LSSU’s Public Relations Director W.T. “Bill” Rabe and friends decided to compile… Read More »

December has witnessed pivotal moments in Michigan’s history, from groundbreaking legislation to the birth of notable figures. The month holds a special place in the state’s legacy, marked by transformative events and milestones. Events that shaped its cultural, political, and social landscape. Join us as we reflect on some of the most significant occurrences that happened on this day in December, from innovative transportation developments to extraordinary local events. December 7, 1945 In the summer and fall of 1945, former Michigan Governor Chase Osborn championed the vision of Sugar Island becoming home to the United Nations. The proposal was supported… Read More »

On New Year’s Eve of 1983, Fred Dakota opened The Pines, Michigan’s first Native American casino, in a two-car garage on the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community reservation. Armed with determination and a $10,000 loan, Dakota created a makeshift gambling haven that would become a pivotal moment in the history of Native American gaming. The Spark: From Bingo to Casinos The journey began in the early 1980s when the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community sought ways to fund housing and other tribal needs. Elder Helene Walsh suggested adding casino gambling to the tribe’s bingo regulations, a move that went largely unnoticed by… Read More »

.A Toast to the End of Prohibition On December 30, 1933, Michigan celebrated the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter as the state’s first liquor stores opened their doors. This milestone came just ten days after the repeal of Prohibition. This marked Michigan’s pivotal role in shaping the nation’s approach to alcohol regulation. Prohibition: A Dry Era for Michigan Prohibition, enforced from 1920 to 1933, made the sale, manufacture, and transportation of alcohol illegal in the United States. Despite the restrictions, alcohol flowed clandestinely through bootlegging, speakeasies, and smuggling operations. This was especially prevalent in… Read More »

The Dwarf Lake Iris and Its Endangered Beauty On December 30, 1998, Michigan officially designated the Dwarf Lake Iris (Iris lacustris) as its state wildflower through Act 454. This rare and striking plant is not only a symbol of Michigan’s natural beauty but also a reminder of the importance of conservation. The Dwarf Lake Iris: A Tiny Treasure Appearance: The Dwarf Lake Iris stands out with its vivid blue flowers, which are about two inches tall. These showy blooms are complemented by stiff, upright leaves emerging from narrow, creeping rhizomes. Despite its small size, its vibrant display captures the essence… Read More »

Houghton’s Amphidrome and the Portage Lakes Hockey Club Houghton, Michigan, holds a unique place in hockey history. On December 29, 1902, the first organized professional hockey game was played at the Amphidrome, marking the beginning of a new era for the sport. This iconic game pitted the Portage Lakes Hockey Club against the University of Toronto Hockey Club. The Portage Lakes triumphed with a commanding 13–2 victory in front of over 5,000 enthusiastic spectators. The Amphidrome: A Historic Venue Built in 1902, the Amphidrome was not just a rink but a birthplace of hockey’s professional roots. The Portage Lakes Hockey… 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 »

On July 18, 1815, Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island returned to American control after three years under British occupation during the War of 1812. This event was a direct outcome of the Treaty of Ghent, which ended the war and restored pre-war boundaries. The reoccupation marked a turning point for the region and symbolized a new chapter of peace and U.S. sovereignty in the Great Lakes. The War of 1812 and the Capture of Fort Mackinac During the War of 1812, British forces captured Fort Mackinac in the war’s first skirmish, taking advantage of its lightly defended position. The British… Read More »

Tragedy, Resilience, and Legacy On December 24, 1913, the small mining town of Calumet, Michigan, was struck by an unthinkable tragedy. A Christmas party for striking miners and their families turned deadly when someone falsely shouted “fire.” This caused a panic that led to 73 people being crushed to death, 59 of them children. It is known as the Italian Hall Disaster or the 1913 Massacre. This heartbreaking event remains one of Michigan’s most somber historical moments. The Party That Turned to Tragedy The Christmas Eve gathering at Italian Hall was meant to be a moment of joy and solidarity… Read More »