Michigan History Moment: Recent Episodes
LCC Connect
Michigan History Moment™ is a weekly three-minute radio program that focuses on people, places, and events in Michigan’s past. The program is written and recorded by Michigan History magazine and the Historical Society of Michigan staff. Michigan History Moment airs on radio stations throughout the state including 89.7FM-WLNZ.
This episode highlights the ill-fated expedition undertaken by Dr. William C. Ransom and the Trip around the World company, which set sail in 1894 aboard the Great Lakes schooner George L. Wren. Initially envisioned as a grand three-year voyage across the globe, the enterprise was marred by deceit and mismanagement, culminating in Ransom's disappearance, betraying his fellow adventurers. Instead of traversing the world, the crew spent two months navigating the Great Lakes, ultimately returning home with a sense of disillusionment. Dr. Ransom, having absconded with funds and left his companions to their fate, found solace in Oregon, living out his days without a hint of remorse for his actions.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
The episode explores the historical rivalries among Michigan towns vying for the designation of county seat. As a title that conferred not only prestige, but also economic prosperity, various towns engaged in fierce competition.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Sonny Elliott, a beloved figure in Southeast Michigan, captivated audiences with his engaging weather reports for over six decades. His tenure as a broadcaster was marked by not only his meteorological insights but also his penchant for humor and relatable anecdotes. However, few were aware of his harrowing experience as a prisoner of war during World War II, where he served as a morale officer. Following the war, he returned to Detroit and became a prominent television personality, steadfastly choosing to remain in his hometown despite numerous offers from larger networks. Elliott's legacy endures as a testament to his contributions to local broadcasting and community spirit.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Michigan's white pine forests are thriving today thanks to the life and legacy of Karen Hartwick, whose remarkable donation of forested land, serves as a compelling narrative of love, loss, and conservation. Karen's father, Nels Mickelson, was a Danish immigrant who forged a path in the logging industry upon his arrival in America in 1866. His success provided economic opportunities during a transformative period in American history; however, it came at a significant environmental cost, as vast expanses of forest were sacrificed in the name of progress. With her remarkable act of philanthropy, inspired by her desire to honor the memory of her father and late husband, Edward Hartwick, Michigan's natural heritage was preserved through her donation of over 8,000 acres of forested land, now known as Hartwick Pines State Park.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Initially sent to Havana in 1895 under the pretense of protecting American interests, the USS Maine met with disaster when an explosion claimed the lives of 266 crew members. Only William Madison of Bay City would survive. Despite an investigation revealing that coal dust ultimately lead to the explosion, the incident became a rallying cry for the United States during the Spanish-American War.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
In 1917, towards the latter stages of World War I, Haller's Blue Army of Poland was formed under the command of General Jozef Haller von Hallenburg. With some hailing from all round Michigan, 20,000 Polish-American men would answer the call to fight for Polish Independence.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Take a trip this episode to Grand Hotel, established on scenic Mackinac Island and an iconic focal point throughout Michigan's history.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
The episode explores the significant contributions of Michigan's Odawa men during World War I, highlighting their brave service despite the injustices they faced as non-citizens.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
This episode dives into the origins of Gerber Baby Food, an iconic brand that emerged from a moment of domestic challenge in 1927. Dorothy Gerber's frustration in preparing pureed peas for her daughter prompted her husband, Daniel Gerber, to confront the difficulty of the task himself, ultimately leading to a pivotal inquiry regarding the feasibility of pureeing peas at their canning plant.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
The Rainbow Inn was Northern Michigan's sole African American resort hotel and restaurant, which opened its doors in 1950. Established by William Thomas West, an African American railway porter and chef, the Rainbow Inn was a pioneering establishment that welcomed patrons of all races, thereby providing a sanctuary in an era when racial segregation was prevalent even in the North.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
This episode explores the significant role Michigan plays in the realm of sugar beet production. The origins of this industry can be traced back to the late 19th century.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
The principal focus of this episode revolves around the significant contributions of the Traverse City State Hospital and its contributions towards progressive mental health care in America throughout the 20th century. The institution was pivotal in implementing advanced treatment methodologies emphasizing the necessity of clean air, sunlight, and humane treatment for individuals with mental health challenges.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
The episode recounts the tragic maritime disaster involving the schooner Minnehaha on October 13, 1893, near Lake Michigan. Despite being one of the largest vessels on the Great Lakes, the Minnehaha succumbed to a ferocious storm, leading to its eventual wreck.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
The primary focus of this episode revolves cigar manufacturing industry in Detroit, a pivotal hub of tobacco production during the early 20th century.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Following a disastrous camping trip, Arthur Sherman was inspired to design a more practical and efficient camping solution that brought about the covered wagon, an early version of the recreational vehicle.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Tim McCoy, a native of Saginaw, Michigan, carved a niche for himself in the realm of motion picture Westerns. His journey commenced with a childhood steeped in adventure along the Saginaw River, leading to a formative experience with Native American culture in Wyoming, and culminating in a successful acting career that spanned from the 1920s to the 1950s.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
The episode explores the tumultuous and often chaotic history of early automobile manufacturers in Michigan, highlighting their audacious endeavors, financial struggles, and the remarkable innovations they contributed to the automotive industry.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Faygo has been a quintessential Michigan beverage that originated in Detroit in 1907. MHM tells the story of Perry and Ben Feigensen, Jewish immigrants from Russia, began the production of Faygo within the confines of their home.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
This episode delves into a profound historical injustice that transpired in 1900, when the Odawa community at Burt Lake, Michigan, was violently displaced by the local sheriff and his deputies. This egregious act of dispossession stemmed from a complicated history of land treaties, which had left the Odawa with reservations amidst ongoing encroachments by settlers.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
The University of Michigan's decision to admit female students in 1870 marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of coeducation, a decision that many contemporaries deemed perilous and unorthodox.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
The episode explains the historical presence of Chinese immigrants in Houghton County, Michigan, highlighting their significant yet often overlooked role in the region's copper mining industry from 1900 to 1910. While many associate the area primarily with European immigrants, Houghton County housed the largest Chinese population in Michigan during this period.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
The Page Fence Giants were a remarkable African American baseball team based in Adrian, Michigan, that flourished from 1895 to 1898. With an impressive record of 500 wins to 76 losses, they not only showcased their talent on the field but also faced significant racial challenges off of it.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
American women played a crucial role in World War I, marking a significant shift in their participation in wartime service. Thousands of women went overseas to serve as nurses and in various supportive roles, breaking traditional employment barriers. While the popular image often centers around women in World War II, this episode highlights the contributions of those who served during the First World War, including the notable efforts of the "Hello Girls," who operated switchboards to facilitate communication for the troops.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Michigan has its own historical tale reminiscent of the mythical Atlantis, centered around the village of Belvidere. Initially flourishing with essential amenities like a hotel, mills, and even its own bank, Belvedere's growth was abruptly stunted when nature struck. Despite some residents attempting to return after the floods, the town never fully recovered, ultimately succumbing to a devastating fire in 1882.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Born in 1835 in Prairie Ronde, Michigan, Olympia Brown was inspired by her Universalist upbringing and a strong belief in education. Brown played a significant role in suffrage initiatives and was present to witness the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1919. Her legacy continues today, with institutions honoring her contributions to women's rights and education.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Forest fire lookout towers played a crucial role in protecting Michigan's forests, particularly during the early 20th century when rampant logging left vast areas vulnerable to fire. This episode delves into the history of these towers, which were instrumental in spotting small fires before they could escalate into devastating blazes.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Sayklly's Confectionery and Gifts in Escanaba is a cherished institution in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, known for its unique and sometimes quirky treats. Founded by Joseph Sayklly, an immigrant from Lebanon, the shop has a rich history dating back to 1906. Today, Sayklly's remains a beloved part of the community, continuing to delight customers with its sweet offerings.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Michigan once experienced a fascinating yet short-lived silk production craze in the 1830s, driven by the introduction of a special mulberry tree that promised lucrative returns. Despite the initial excitement and the efforts of farmers like Christian Zook and Abel Page, the industry faced significant challenges, including harsh winters and diseases that devastated mulberry crops. This Michigan history moment sheds light on a unique chapter in the state’s agricultural past and the trials faced by early silk producers.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
During WWII, Michigan hosted about 6,000 Italian and German prisoners of war with a few escape attempts. One attempt ended up in treason for two women from Owosso.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Pewabic Pottery was founded by Mary Chase Perry and is a ceramic studio and school in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1903, the studio is known for its iridescent glazes. The pottery continues in operation today, and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1991.
___________________________
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
The Makinen Tackle Company was started in 1940 by William Makinen, along with 3 employees, was making lures in his garage and painting them in the basement of his Kaleva home.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
The Goose Lake International Music Festival held August 7–9, 1970, in Leoni Township, Michigan. It was one of the largest music events of its era, and featured many of the top rock music bands of the period.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Issac Wixom Lamb developed a knitting machine that made the production of gloves and mittens easier.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
The Society of Jesus, better known as the Jesuits, played an important role in opening the Lake Superior country to French colonization and working with the indigenous people of Michigan
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
With a limited growing season and colder temperatures, Michigan's Upper Peninsula can be a challenge for agricultural development. In the mid 1920s, Marquette University developed an experimental farm to see what crops (including peppermint) would grow well in the U.P.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
The 133-foot steamer Rising Sun, bound for Benton Harbor, MI, after departing High Island (near Beaver Island) ran aground in Lake Michigan just off Pyramid Point on October 29, 1917, during a blinding snowstorm.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
James Jesse Strang (born March 21, 1813, Scipio, N.Y., U.S.—died July 9, 1856, Voree, Wis.) was an American churchman and a dissident of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons). His unsuccessful attempt to succeed Joseph Smith as the church's leader led him to establish the Strangite sect.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Learn about the rich history of Staple Porcelain, a process that only the most skilled artisans used to preserve valuables. Listen and never take glue for granted again.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Aliya Ogdie-Hassen, born on April 30, 1910, in South Dakota, is known as the "mother" of the Arab community in Dearborn-Detroit. Her parents were immigrants from Lebanon who settled in the US as homesteaders. At the age of 14, Aliya got married to a man through a prearranged marriage which ended in divorce after sixteen years. In 1925, she moved from South Dakota to Detroit to live with her cousins. If you're interested in learning more about Aliya Hassen's story, you can listen to it on Michigan History Moment.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
The Green Book was a guidebook published annually from 1936 to 1966 by Victor Hugo Green, an African American postal worker. It provided African American roadtrippers with information on safe places to stay, eat, and visit during the Jim Crow era.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Discover the inspiring story of Henrietta Napier and how her knowledge of sailing ships led to triumph over tragedy in 1855.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
It was 8:45 a.m. on Wednesday, October 28,1942. The location was Hamtramck, a then-booming industrial town completely surrounded by Detroit and abutting Highland Park. Tragedy struck when a train collided with a bus, killing 16 people and seriously injuring 11 others.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
James Oliver Curwood was born in Owosso, Michigan. He was an American writer and conservationist. At least one hundred and eighty motion pictures have been based on or directly inspired by his novels and short stories.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
The Griffin was a sailing vessel built by French explorer and fur trader René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle in the Niagara area of Canada in 1679. After disappearing on its maiden voyage, the fate of The Griffin remains one of the Great Lakes' most enduring mysteries.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Friedrich Wilhelm Zinn from Battle Creek, Michigan was a volunteer aviator who flew with French Armée de l'Air forces in World War I and an early pioneer of aerial photography for wartime reconnaissance and Military intelligence. At the close of war, Zinn lead a team of investigators with the mission to research, locate, recover and identify American airmen who were listed as missing in action.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
From 1908-1927, Ford produced around 15 million Model T's. The classic automobile was fraught with a number of mechanical issues that made it an easy target for jokes.
The siege of Fort Mackinac was one of the first engagements of the War of 1812.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Canadian born, Elijah J. McCoy was an engineer of African-American who invented lubrication systems for steam engines. In 2012 when the United States Patent and Trademark Office named its first regional office, in Detroit, Michigan, the "Elijah J. McCoy Midwest Regional Patent Office".
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Many monuments in Michigan's cemeteries with a light blue-grey metal monuments known as white bronze, an alternate name for pure zinc.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Jane Johnston Schoolcraft (January 31, 1800 – May 22, 1842), also known as Bamewawagezhikaquay is the one of earliest Native American literary writers.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Every year, thousands of vacationers enjoy staying at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. In addition to being a vacation spot, it has also served as the setting for two motion pictures.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
In August of 1847, a group of thirteen Kentucky slave catchers arrived in Cass County, Michigan. They broke into smaller parties and proceeded to various Quaker farms to retrieve their "property", but were met with peaceful resistance.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Father Gabriel Richard served the city of Detroit as a missionary, educator, and civic leader during the early 19th century. In 1887, he helped begin a school that would eventually become the University of Michigan.
After World War II, paint by numbers kits became a craze that swept the nation, an idea started by Detroit artist, Max Cline.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Hilda Mueller Wuepper, a life-long resident of Bay City, Michigan took the hydroplane racing world by storm and set several world records from 1929-1933.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
University of Michigan has the unique distinction of being the only university in the world of having an alumni chapter on the moon.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
During World War II, the Woman's Land Army was established to keep farms operational so the country could be fed. Florence Hall from Port Austin, Michigan was chosen to lead the endeavor.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
On June 6, 1822, an employee of the American Fur Company on Mackinac Island was accidentally shot in the stomach at close range, injuring his stomach and ribs. The unusual outcome of the accident would provide Dr. William Beaumont the platform needed to research one of the greatest contributions to medical science from the 19th century.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
In November of 1926, the Barnes Hecker mine located in Ishpeming, Michigan caved. The mine flooded, leaving only one survivor of the tragedy.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Rosie the Riveter was an icon of World War II and a real person as well.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
Ephraim Shay was a merchant, entrepreneur and self-taught railroad engineer who designed the revolutionary and game changing Shay locomotive.
Produced by Michigan History Magazine
SS Carl D. Bradley was an American self-unloading Great Lakes freighter that sank in a Lake Michigan storm on November 18, 1958.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) Alvin Wood Chase was a traveling physician, salesman, author and self-made man. After settling in Ann Arbor, he compiled and published Dr. Chase's Recipes, a best selling book that would become a staple in U.S. homes.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) Elizabeth Sparks Adams was an American historian who worked tireless as an advocate for Michigan history. She served for 54 years on the Michigan Historical Commission, making her the longest-serving public official in Michigan history, and the first woman president of the Commission.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) "Mr. Selfridge," a British period drama television series about Harry Gordon Selfridge and his department store, a man who grew up in Jackson, Michigan.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) The of how a kind gesture by two young girls from Kalamazoo, Ella and Josephine May, would lead to the nationally recognized Memorial Day.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) During a period in history when segregation, discrimination and racism was the norm, Dukes’ Happy Holiday Resort was a favorite vacation spot for many African-American families.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) Fordite, also known as Detroit agate or motor agate, was formed from the buildup of layers of enamel paint slag on tracks and skids on which cars were hand spray-painted, which have been baked numerous times.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) The Grand Rapids & Indiana Railroad became one of Michigan's longest and most successful railways with a quick expansion to 529 miles.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) The Toledo War (1835–36), also known as the Michigan–Ohio War or the Ohio–Michigan War, was an almost bloodless boundary dispute between the U.S. state of Ohio and the adjoining territory of Michigan over a 10 mile stretch of land known as the Toledo Strip.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) Mount Clemens, Michigan was known as Bath City USA, but it was also called the Rose Capital of the United States. Mount Clemens was the largest producer of roses in Michigan. Paul Weiss started the Mount Clemens Rose Gardens with the help of Japanese-American workers who would become lifelong family friends.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) Born in Jackson County, Michigan, Holling Clancy Holling graduated from the Art Institute of Chicago in 1923. The author was best known for his book Paddle-to-the-Sea which was inspired by some of his own personal journeys.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) The United States Life-Saving Service was a United States government agency that grew out of private and local humanitarian efforts to save the lives of shipwrecked mariners and passengers.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) Sojourner Truth was a life long American abolitionist and Women's rights activist who moved to Michigan in 1857.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) Developed in Saginaw, Michigan during the 1890's, Hinkley's Bone Liniment was a nostrum intended to cure everything from headaches to diphtheria.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) Abolitionist Frederick Douglass famously wrote, “Once let the black man get upon his person the brass letter, U.S., let him get an eagle on his button, and a musket on his shoulder and bullets in his pocket, there is no power on earth that can deny he has earned the right to citizenship.”
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) Lacrosse has become a worldwide sport, but its origins can be traced back to the early games of Native Americans.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) In this episode of Michigan History Moment, find out about how the citizens of Michigan joined together to help the Allied soldiers of WWI by collecting peach pits.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) In 1934, an infamous incident of racism leading prior to a match up between the University of Michigan and Georgia Tech nearly led to future president, Gerald R. Ford leaving the Wolverines football team in support of his teammate, roommate and friend, Willis Ward.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) Michigan Senator, William Alden Smith from Grand Rapids was instrumental in the hearings following the 1912 sinking of the Titanic. Some ridiculed Smith for his apparent ignorance of the shipping world, however, his report led to major reforms in maritime safety.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) Hailing from Arcadia, Michigan, Harriet Quimby was a pioneer of women's empowerment. Her occupational list of achievements included aviator, journalist, and film screenwriter.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) John Askin came to North America with the British Army in 1758. After the British took over New France, he entered the fur trade and operated a trading post at Fort Michilimackinac with a series of financial ups and downs.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) During World War II, families throughout Michigan contributed to the war effort by participating in scrap drives. Metal, rubber, paper, and cooking fat were all turned into goods to help win the war.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) Gerhard Mennen “Soapy” Williams, a liberal reformer, served for 12 years as Michigan’s 41st governor, from 1949 to 1960. Born into an affluent family on February 23, 1911 in Detroit, Michigan, Williams earned the nickname “Soapy” because his maternal grandfather was the founder of Mennen, a brand of men’s personal care products.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History Magazine) In July of 1911, the neighboring Michigan cities of Oscoda and AuSable burned to the ground in what has been called the "most devastating fire in the history of Michigan". Due to the heavy influence of the lumber trade in those years, both cities were constructed entirely of wood which made the communities extremely vulnerable for disaster.
Produced by https://hsmichigan.org/publications/michiganhistory/ (Michigan History) La Framboise was one of the most successful fur traders in Michigan, while it was still considered the Northwest Territory. At that time, fur trading was a difficult, dangerous and male-dominated occupation. Madame La Framboise was one of the most prominent early businesswomen in the territory.