On This Day in Michigan’s History – March

March has seen some pivotal moments in Michigan’s history—shaping its landscapes, industries, and communities. Let’s take a journey through the noteworthy events that happened on this day in history throughout March.

March 3, 1875

Just three years after Yellowstone became the first national park, Congress designated Mackinac Island as the nation’s second national park. When the military departed 20 years later, the park was transferred to the state, becoming Michigan’s first state park.

March 3, 1931

Recognizing its rugged beauty and rich history, Congress authorized the establishment of Isle Royale National Park. By the early 1900s, logging, mining, and settlement had taken their toll, prompting conservationists to fight for its preservation.

March 4, 1955

The white pine (Pinus strobus) was officially declared Michigan’s state tree. This towering giant played a crucial role in the state’s lumber industry, which flourished from the 1870s through the early 1900s.

March 7, 1942

During World War II, Congress approved the construction of a longer and deeper lock at Sault Ste. Marie. Work began swiftly on September 1, 1942, with crews working around the clock to build the MacArthur Lock to support wartime transportation.

March 8, 1843

Originally named Tonedagana County, the Michigan legislature renamed it Emmet County. Home to deep Odawa roots and even a brief period of Mormon rule, Emmet County’s past is full of fascinating history.

March 11, 1861

Keweenaw County Organized. The northernmost and least populated county in Michigan, Keweenaw County boasts a rich history, stunning landscapes, and a legacy tied to the state’s development.

March 15, 1867

Born in Hancock, Michigan, Mary Chase Perry Stratton became a pioneer in American ceramics. She co-founded Pewabic Pottery, leaving a lasting impact on architectural ceramics.

March 19, 1845

Houghton County Organized Named after Michigan’s first state geologist, Douglass Houghton, the county became the heart of Copper Country. Its booming copper industry after the Civil War shaped the state’s economy and culture.

March 19, 1863

Originally known as Bleeker County, the Upper Peninsula region was renamed Menominee County after residents petitioned for a change. The original name lasted just two years and four days before being retired.

March 20, 1900

Calumet celebrated the grand opening of its theater with a touring Broadway production of The Highwayman. This event was a milestone for a community built on copper and ambition.

March 22, 1878

Near Petoskey, one of the final mass nestings of passenger pigeons took place. Once numbering in the billions, these birds were driven to extinction by relentless hunting and habitat loss.

March 26, 1922

Michigan’s longest-serving governor (1969–1983), William Milliken, was born in Traverse City. His tenure saw major economic, environmental, and political changes in the state.

March 28, 1836

The Treaty of Washington Signed. An agreement between the U.S. government and Anishinaabe leaders resulted in the cession of over one-third of Michigan’s land. In return, the tribes retained rights to hunt and fish on their ancestral lands.

March 29, 2013

Determined students set out to reclaim the Guinness World Record for the largest snowball. After two and a half grueling hours, they crafted a record-breaking snowball with the help of professional surveyors.

March 30, 1921

Michigan took a major step in natural resource management by establishing the Department of Conservation. This move laid the foundation for what would later become the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

March 30, 1977

The U.S. Air Force announced the closure of Kincheloe Air Force Base near Sault Ste. Marie. This decision had a significant economic impact on Chippewa, Mackinac, and Luce counties.

As we reflect on these days in Michigan’s history, it’s clear that Michigan’s past is filled with resilience, innovation, and transformation. Each event, from conservation efforts to industrial achievements, has played a role in shaping the state we know today. By remembering these milestones, we honor Michigan’s heritage and the people who helped forge its identity.

Marisa Fancy along with her husband and four children dreamt of moving “Up North”. They had vacationed for years in northern Michigan and in 1995 they finally made the move.

The family was always out exploring, but with 4 kids there was some limitations on what they could do. Marisa discovered the amazing network of trails in Northern Michigan after Steve died and she would walk for miles. The trails provided her with peace, comfort and solitude at a difficult time in her life. Later, after meeting Guy who would become her second husband, she learned to golf and found another passion she could enjoy in beautiful Northern Michigan.

Marisa has been the family historian, writer, and poet for as long as she can remember. She has always loved to write and has now found a creative outlet for it other than family. You can read her articles in Adventures in Northern Michigan, Northern Michigan History and Golf Up North.