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1866 : Michigan Home for Veterans Established in Grand Rapids
1866 : Michigan Home for Veterans Established in Grand Rapids
Dec 1 all-day
On December 1, 1866, the Michigan Soldiers Home was opened in Grand Rapids for veterans of the Mexican War, Civil War and Spanish-American War who were disabled by disease or wounds and were incapable of … Continue reading "1866 : Michigan Home for Veterans Established in Grand Rapids"
1913 : Ford Introduces the Assembly Line
1913 : Ford Introduces the Assembly Line
Dec 1 all-day
On December 1, 1913, Henry Ford installs the first moving assembly line for the mass production of an entire automobile. His innovation reduced the time it took to build a car from more than … Continue reading "1913 : Ford Introduces the Assembly Line"
1953 ; Former Michigan Governor Kim Sigler Dies in Plane Crash
1953 ; Former Michigan Governor Kim Sigler Dies in Plane Crash
Dec 1 all-day
 December 1, 1953, former Michigan Governor Kim Sigler and three passengers were killed when Sigler’s personal plane crashed into a radio tower near Battle Creek. Kim Sigler, who rocketed to the Michigan governor’s chair seven … Continue reading "1953 ; Former Michigan Governor Kim Sigler Dies in Plane Crash"
1955 : Rosa Parks Arrested for Not Giving Up Her Seat
1955 : Rosa Parks Arrested for Not Giving Up Her Seat
Dec 1 all-day
 On December 1, 1955, Rosa Parks took the bus home from work. In one of her books, she tells us what happened when she was told to give up her seat: One evening in early … Continue reading "1955 : Rosa Parks Arrested for Not Giving Up Her Seat"
1982 : Lansing TV Station Fox 47 Launched
1982 : Lansing TV Station Fox 47 Launched
Dec 1 all-day
Lansing’s TV station, WFSL, first called “Independent Station TV 47”, began on December 1, 1982 and later became Fox 47, WSYM. Source: John Robinson, “Lansing History : Fox 47 Debuts, December 1” WFMK Blog, April … Continue reading "1982 : Lansing TV Station Fox 47 Launched"
1987 : Hitsville USA Michigan Historical Marker Dedicated
1987 : Hitsville USA Michigan Historical Marker Dedicated
Dec 1 all-day
 The Hitsville U.S.A. building in Detroit, Michigan On December 1, 1987, Michigan Governor James Blanchard and Detroit Mayor Coleman A. Young, along with Motown stars Smokey Robinson and the Temptations’ Eddie Kendricks, attended a ceremony … Continue reading "1987 : Hitsville USA Michigan Historical Marker Dedicated"
2014: David Zinn, Ann Arbor, Michigan Street Artist
2014: David Zinn, Ann Arbor, Michigan Street Artist
Dec 1 all-day
 David Zinn is an Ann Arbor artist known for his temporary street art composed entirely of chalk, charcoal and found objects that is entirely improvised on location. Most of these drawings (most notably “Sluggo”) … Continue reading "2014: David Zinn, Ann Arbor, Michigan Street Artist"
2017 : Elk is in, loon is out for Michigan’s wildlife license plate
2017 : Elk is in, loon is out for Michigan’s wildlife license plate
Dec 1 all-day
 The elk is booting the common loon off Michigan’s wildlife license plate. Starting December 1, the giant mammal will be featured on the new plates, which cost $35 and help support wildlife management in the … Continue reading "2017 : Elk is in, loon is out for Michigan’s wildlife license plate"
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1830 : State’s First Antislavery Society Formed
1830 : State’s First Antislavery Society Formed
Dec 2 all-day
 Elizabeth Chandler organized the state’s first antislavery society. Some sources suggest that the Logan Female Anti-Slavery Society was formed in 1832, but at any rate, it went on to help create safe stops for for … Continue reading "1830 : State’s First Antislavery Society Formed"
1888 : Detroit Milkmen Try To Raise Price of Milk to 7 Cents Per Quart
1888 : Detroit Milkmen Try To Raise Price of Milk to 7 Cents Per Quart
Dec 2 all-day
On December 2, 1888, Detroit milkmen met to try to raise the price of their product to seven cents per quart. Sources : Detroit Historical Society Bill Loomis, “Got milk? A century ago, it came … Continue reading "1888 : Detroit Milkmen Try To Raise Price of Milk to 7 Cents Per Quart"
1927 : Ford Motor Co. Unveils Model A In Showrooms
1927 : Ford Motor Co. Unveils Model A In Showrooms
Dec 2 all-day
 On this day Ford Motor Co. unveiled its Model A automobile for customers for the first time. The Ford Model A of 1928–1931 was the second huge success for the Ford Motor Company, after its … Continue reading "1927 : Ford Motor Co. Unveils Model A In Showrooms"
1967 : Crisler Arena Hosts 1st Basketball Game
1967 : Crisler Arena Hosts 1st Basketball Game
Dec 2 all-day
Crisler Arena — now known as Crisler Center with the addition of the William Davidson Player Development Center — has been the location for Michigan athletic events for 45 years. The men’s basketball team has … Continue reading "1967 : Crisler Arena Hosts 1st Basketball Game"
1975 : China Plays MSU Fight Song to Welcome President Gerald Ford
1975 : China Plays MSU Fight Song to Welcome President Gerald Ford
Dec 2 all-day
When President Gerald Ford, a University alum, arrived in Peking, China to attend an important meeting with the Chinese Vice Premier Deng Xiaoping, he was greeted with a band playing the Michigan State University fight … Continue reading "1975 : China Plays MSU Fight Song to Welcome President Gerald Ford"
2012 : Michillinda Resort Burns To Ground
2012 : Michillinda Resort Burns To Ground
Dec 2 all-day
Fire raged through the historic Michillinda Lodge on Lake Michigan in Fruitland Township early Sunday, December 2, 2012, leaving behind nothing but smoldering ruins. Nearly every fire department in Muskegon County sent tanker trucks to … Continue reading "2012 : Michillinda Resort Burns To Ground"
2019 : Dick Thelan, Last Remaining Michigan Survivor of the U.S.S. Indianapolis, Honored for Service
2019 : Dick Thelan, Last Remaining Michigan Survivor of the U.S.S. Indianapolis, Honored for Service
Dec 2 all-day
 I was humbled this week to host a ceremony honoring Congressional Gold Medal recipient Dick Thelen, a survivor of the USS Indianapolis disaster. The story of the USS Indianapolis is a distinctively tragic one. On … Continue reading "2019 : Dick Thelan, Last Remaining Michigan Survivor of the U.S.S. Indianapolis, Honored for Service"
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1896 : First Rural Free Mail Delivery in State of Michigan Offered in Climax, Michigan
1896 : First Rural Free Mail Delivery in State of Michigan Offered in Climax, Michigan
Dec 3 all-day
 POST MARK COLLECTORS CLUB – POST OFFICE PHOTOGRAPH COLLECTION Post Office: Climax, MI 49034 (Kalamazoo County) Date of Photo: circa 1896 Contributor: Paul E. Petosky, Postmarks from the Past The first Rural Free Delivery mail service … Continue reading "1896 : First Rural Free Mail Delivery in State of Michigan Offered in Climax, Michigan"
1929 : Ford Motor Company Raises Pay to $7/Day
1929 : Ford Motor Company Raises Pay to $7/Day
Dec 3 all-day
Despite the collapse of the U.S. stock market, the Ford Motor Company raised the pay of its employees from $5 to $7 a day on this day. Source : Detroit Historical Society.
2003: Governor Granholm Signs Bill Recognizing Cesar Chavez Day
2003: Governor Granholm Signs Bill Recognizing Cesar Chavez Day
Dec 3 all-day
 After signing a bill into law today that creates Cesar Chavez Day in Michigan, Gov. Jennifer Granholm said “it takes courage” to stand up and say that people should not be discriminated against. Courage was … Continue reading "2003: Governor Granholm Signs Bill Recognizing Cesar Chavez Day"
2017: Pontiac Silverdome Explosion Fails
2017: Pontiac Silverdome Explosion Fails
Dec 3 all-day
The Pontiac Silverdome is going out with a bang on Dec. 3. The city of Pontiac issued a permit in early November for the long-awaited demolition of the abandoned stadium, once home to the Detroit Lions. Demolition is set to begin … Continue reading "2017: Pontiac Silverdome Explosion Fails"
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1823 : Territorial Governor Lewis Cass Calls for an End to Government Welfare
1823 : Territorial Governor Lewis Cass Calls for an End to Government Welfare
Dec 4 all-day
On December 4, 1823, Territorial Governor Lewis Cass wrote Secretary of War John Calhoun warning him that the British were continuing to provide presents (government welfare) to Indians residing in Michigan. Although the British were … Continue reading "1823 : Territorial Governor Lewis Cass Calls for an End to Government Welfare"
1838 : Battle of Windsor
1838 : Battle of Windsor
Dec 4 all-day
 The Battle of Windsor Historical Marker in front of Francois Baby House, Hiram Walker Historical Museum in Windsor Ontario “Early on December 4, 1838, a force of about 140 American and Canadian supporters of William … Continue reading "1838 : Battle of Windsor"
1844 : Michigan Central College Opens in Spring Harbor; Will Eventually Become Hillsdale College
1844 : Michigan Central College Opens in Spring Harbor; Will Eventually Become Hillsdale College
Dec 4 all-day
Baptists opened Michigan Central College in Spring Arbor on December 4, 1844. It was the first in Michigan to grant degrees to women. Nine years later, the college was moved to Hillsdale and reorganized as … Continue reading "1844 : Michigan Central College Opens in Spring Harbor; Will Eventually Become Hillsdale College"
1908 : Dr. Alfred Day Hershey Born In Owosso, Nobel Prize Winner
1908 : Dr. Alfred Day Hershey Born In Owosso, Nobel Prize Winner
Dec 4 all-day
Dr. Alfred Day Hershey won the Nobel Prize in 1969 for his pioneering work. Hershey was born in Owosso on Dec. 4, 1908. He lived his first four years in Owosso, then moved with his … Continue reading "1908 : Dr. Alfred Day Hershey Born In Owosso, Nobel Prize Winner"
1936 : UM Dedicates Burton Memorial Tower
1936 : UM Dedicates Burton Memorial Tower
Dec 4 all-day
 Burton Memorial Tower was erected during the 1935-36 school year and was formally dedicated on December 4, 1936. It was created as a memorial to former President Marion Leroy Burton, who served as president at … Continue reading "1936 : UM Dedicates Burton Memorial Tower"
2010 : Grand Rapids Woman Wins Dr. Pepper Tuition Throw Football Competition
2010 : Grand Rapids Woman Wins Dr. Pepper Tuition Throw Football Competition
Dec 4 all-day
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6AH58SWjkxY&feature=youtu.be Every great sporting event — actually, every great event period — has its breakthrough, watershed moment. That instantaneous dividing line between the way they used to do stuff and the way we do it now. … Continue reading "2010 : Grand Rapids Woman Wins Dr. Pepper Tuition Throw Football Competition"
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1843: First USS Michigan Launched
1843: First USS Michigan Launched
Dec 5 all-day
 Built at Erie, Pennsylvania and commissioned in 1843, the U.S.S. Michigan spent its entire career patrolling the Great Lakes. For most of its term of service, it was the only iron-hulled ship patrolling the Great … Continue reading "1843: First USS Michigan Launched"
1858: Chief Okemos Dies
1858: Chief Okemos Dies
Dec 5 all-day
 On December 5, 1858, Chief Okemos died near Portland. The Michigan Legislature honored his memory by renaming Hamilton, Michigan in his honor. Later on a Michigan historical marker was also dedicated to him and the … Continue reading "1858: Chief Okemos Dies"
1922 : Election Scandal Makes James Couzens U.S. Senator
1922 : Election Scandal Makes James Couzens U.S. Senator
Dec 5 all-day
On December 5, 1922, James Couzens resigned as Mayor of Detroit to accept his appointment to the U.S. Senate. Couzens was appointed by Governor Alexander Groesbeck to fill the Michigan senate seat that was vacated … Continue reading "1922 : Election Scandal Makes James Couzens U.S. Senator"
1933 : National Prohibition Act Repealed
1933 : National Prohibition Act Repealed
Dec 5 all-day
On December 5, 1933, the 21st Amendment to the U.S. Constitution officially repealed the National Prohibition Act, which had banned sale and consumption of alcohol since the 18th Amendment took effect in 1920. Michigan’s own … Continue reading "1933 : National Prohibition Act Repealed"
1946 : Post Office Disrupts Sending Home Laundry to Mom
1946 : Post Office Disrupts Sending Home Laundry to Mom
Dec 5 all-day
The U.S. Postal Service prohibited packages over 18 inches long or weighing more than five pounds in order to save energy. Many students lost their ability to mail their dirty laundry home to mom as … Continue reading "1946 : Post Office Disrupts Sending Home Laundry to Mom"
2012 : Steve Smith Inducted into Michigan Sports Hall of Fame
2012 : Steve Smith Inducted into Michigan Sports Hall of Fame
Dec 5 all-day
 It’s a safe bet that 99 percent of us will never be enshrined in a Hall of Fame of any kind. Steve Smith belongs to three: the MSU Athletics Hall of Fame, the World Sports … Continue reading "2012 : Steve Smith Inducted into Michigan Sports Hall of Fame"
2015: MSU Defeats Iowa for Big Ten Championship
2015: MSU Defeats Iowa for Big Ten Championship
Dec 5 all-day
The Michigan State University Spartans defeated the University of Iowa Hawkeyes 16-13 for the 2015 Big Ten Championship. The Spartans secured the title with a 22-play game-winning TD drive lasting over 9 minutes and scoring … Continue reading "2015: MSU Defeats Iowa for Big Ten Championship"
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1865 : 13th Amendment Ending Slavery Ratified
1865 : 13th Amendment Ending Slavery Ratified
Dec 6 all-day
 United States Senator from Michigan On December 6, 1865, the 13th Amendment to the Constitution ending slavery was ratified. Michigan’s Senator Jacob M. Howard is credited with working closely with Abraham Lincoln in drafting and … Continue reading "1865 : 13th Amendment Ending Slavery Ratified"
1881 : Initial Meeting Held to Form Detroit Institute of Arts
1881 : Initial Meeting Held to Form Detroit Institute of Arts
Dec 6 all-day
On December 6, 1882, an initial meeting that organized the Detroit Institute of Arts was held. Detroit Evening News founder James Scripps and advertising manager William Brearley led the charge for opening an art museum … Continue reading "1881 : Initial Meeting Held to Form Detroit Institute of Arts"
1905 : Cameron Waterman, Inventor of the Outdoor Motor, Files Patent Application
1905 : Cameron Waterman, Inventor of the Outdoor Motor, Files Patent Application
Dec 6 all-day
Cameron Waterman of Detroit/Grosse Isle successfully tested the first fully functional gasoline-powered outboard motor on the ice-filled Detroit River in February, 1905. He formed the Waterman Marine Motor Company and filed a patent application on … Continue reading "1905 : Cameron Waterman, Inventor of the Outdoor Motor, Files Patent Application"
1928 : University of Michigan, The First Big Ten School To Open Indoor Hockey Rink
1928 : University of Michigan, The First Big Ten School To Open Indoor Hockey Rink
Dec 6 all-day
On December 6, 1928, the University of Michigan became the first Big Ten School to have an indoor hockey rink. Source : Historical Society of Michigan
1973 : Gerald Ford Becomes First Non-Elected Vice-President
1973 : Gerald Ford Becomes First Non-Elected Vice-President
Dec 6 all-day
Gerald R. Ford is nominated to the vice presidency. Selected by President Richard Nixon on October 12, 1973 to replace Spiro Agnew, who resigned the vice presidency amidst scandal, Congressman Gerald Ford of Michigan found … Continue reading "1973 : Gerald Ford Becomes First Non-Elected Vice-President"
2020 : Finish Independence Day Observed in Hancock
2020 : Finish Independence Day Observed in Hancock
Dec 6 all-day
 About 30 people gathered in downtown Hancock to mark Finnish Independence Day here in Copper Country on Sunday evening. “Well, we didn’t want to break a record,” Jim Kurtti said. “We’ve been doing it every year since … Continue reading "2020 : Finish Independence Day Observed in Hancock"
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1925 : Central Michigan University’s Old Main Burns
1925 : Central Michigan University’s Old Main Burns
Dec 7 all-day
 On December 7, 1925, CMU’s original building, Old Main, burned. Following the calamity, some state legislators went as far as to propose moving the school to a city in their district. However, strong support kept … Continue reading "1925 : Central Michigan University’s Old Main Burns"
1932 : Ellen Burstyn (Actress) Born in Detroit
1932 : Ellen Burstyn (Actress) Born in Detroit
Dec 7 all-day
Born in Detroit on Dec. 7, 1932, Ellen Burstyn worked numerous odd jobs before landing a regular gig on “The Jackie Gleason Show.” She debuted on Broadway in 1957, then spent years working in TV … Continue reading "1932 : Ellen Burstyn (Actress) Born in Detroit"
1941 : Army and FBI Arrive in Detroit To Guard Vital Resources As WWII Commences for U.S.
1941 : Army and FBI Arrive in Detroit To Guard Vital Resources As WWII Commences for U.S.
Dec 7 all-day
The Army and the FBI Sunday night took over Detroit to insure protection of her vital defense industry. Four truckloads of Selfridge Field troops arrived in the city at a late hour to set up … Continue reading "1941 : Army and FBI Arrive in Detroit To Guard Vital Resources As WWII Commences for U.S."
1941 : Metro Detroit’s First Casualty in World War II
1941 : Metro Detroit’s First Casualty in World War II
Dec 7 all-day
 Ben Marsh Jr., a 25-year-old ensign aboard the USS Arizona, became metro Detroit’s first reported casualty of World War II, when his family learned of his death on Dec. 12, 1941, five days after the … Continue reading "1941 : Metro Detroit’s First Casualty in World War II"
1941: Ensign Francis Flaherty of Charlotte Wins Medal of Honor
1941: Ensign Francis Flaherty of Charlotte Wins Medal of Honor
Dec 7 all-day
Ensign Francis Flaherty of Charlotte in Eaton County was one of 15 people awarded the Medal of Honor for actions during Pearl Harbor. The 22-year-old, who received his posthumously, was cited for “conspicuous devotion to duty and extraordinary … Continue reading "1941: Ensign Francis Flaherty of Charlotte Wins Medal of Honor"
1945 : Sugar Island Offered As Home To United Nations
1945 : Sugar Island Offered As Home To United Nations
Dec 7 all-day
 On December 7, 1945, former Michigan Governor Chase S. Osborn volunteered Sugar Island, on the eastern tip of the Upper Peninsula, as the home of the United Nations. Unfortunately another island – Manhattan – was … Continue reading "1945 : Sugar Island Offered As Home To United Nations"
2004: Jay Van Andel, Businessman, Philanthropist, Dies
2004: Jay Van Andel, Businessman, Philanthropist, Dies
Dec 7 all-day
Jay Van Andel and Richard DeVos, Sr. are the two co-founders of the Amway Corporation, a pioneer company in network sales of household and personal products. The network sales company distributes its products through dealers … Continue reading "2004: Jay Van Andel, Businessman, Philanthropist, Dies"
2011 : Pearl Harbor Remembered
2011 : Pearl Harbor Remembered
Dec 7 all-day
 U.S. government poster, 1942. (Image from the United States National Archives. Found on Wikimedia Commons). On December 7, 1941, the “Day of Infamy” according President Franklin Delanor Roosevelt, the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, propelling the … Continue reading "2011 : Pearl Harbor Remembered"
2013 : Michigan State Football Teams Wins Big Ten Championship Game
2013 : Michigan State Football Teams Wins Big Ten Championship Game
Dec 7 all-day
Michigan State beat Ohio State, 34-24, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, to win the Big Ten title and a trip to the Rose Bowl. The Spartans posted a school-record 12th victory and snapped the … Continue reading "2013 : Michigan State Football Teams Wins Big Ten Championship Game"
2018 : Greta Van Fleet Lands 4 Grammy Nominations
2018 : Greta Van Fleet Lands 4 Grammy Nominations
Dec 7 all-day
 On December 7, 2018, the Frankenmuth-bred band Greta Van Fleet was notified they had landed four Grammy nominations, topped by a nod for best new artist. The band members are vocalist Josh Kiszka, guitarist Jake … Continue reading "2018 : Greta Van Fleet Lands 4 Grammy Nominations"
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1823 : The First Roman Catholic Priest To Serve in the U.S. Congress Comes From Michigan
1823 : The First Roman Catholic Priest To Serve in the U.S. Congress Comes From Michigan
Dec 8 all-day
Michigan territorial representative Father Gabriel Richard took his seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, the first Roman Catholic priest to serve in Congress. For more information, see “Father Gabriel Richard: Detroit’s pioneer priest”, Detroit … Continue reading "1823 : The First Roman Catholic Priest To Serve in the U.S. Congress Comes From Michigan"
1861 : William Durant Born
1861 : William Durant Born
Dec 8 all-day
 On Dec. 8, 1861, William Crapo “Billy” Durant, the grandson to former Michigan Gov. Henry Crapo, was born. By age 30, despite dropping out of school, Durant became a success by selling horse drawn carriages … Continue reading "1861 : William Durant Born"
1875 : Mrs. Gertrude Klinck’s Milk Wagon and Horse Stolen
1875 : Mrs. Gertrude Klinck’s Milk Wagon and Horse Stolen
Dec 8 all-day
“Mrs. Gertrude Klinck is a milk peddler, and yesterday she left her horse wagon and cans on Russell Street while she entered a grocery store to make some purchases. She desires to know now where … Continue reading "1875 : Mrs. Gertrude Klinck’s Milk Wagon and Horse Stolen"
1956 : Clarke Historical Library at Central Michigan University Dedicated
1956 : Clarke Historical Library at Central Michigan University Dedicated
Dec 8 all-day
Special thanks to the Clarke Historical Library for preserving the history of Michigan and its inhabitants, as well as making available the Michigan Historical Calendar! Source : Michigan Every Day
1990 : Governor-Elect Engler Marries Michelle DeMunbrun
1990 : Governor-Elect Engler Marries Michelle DeMunbrun
Dec 8 all-day
On December 8, 1990, Michigan Gov.-elect John Engler married Texas attorney Michelle DeMunbrun in a ceremony attended by about 45 friends and relatives. Saturday’s marriage is the second for Engler and his new wife. “It … Continue reading "1990 : Governor-Elect Engler Marries Michelle DeMunbrun"
2012 : Diego Rivera’s Birthday
2012 : Diego Rivera’s Birthday
Dec 8 all-day
 Today is the anniversary of Diego Rivera’s birthday. Among the most famous of his works is his mural on the walls of the Detroit Institute of Arts that celebrates the American worker, particularly those on … Continue reading "2012 : Diego Rivera’s Birthday"
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1935 : Detroit Lions Win First NFL Championship
1935 : Detroit Lions Win First NFL Championship
Dec 9 all-day
The Detroit Lions won their first NFL championship by beating the New York Giants 26–7. The Lions also won championships in 1952, 1953, and 1957. They haven’t won one since. Source : Historical Society of … Continue reading "1935 : Detroit Lions Win First NFL Championship"
1972 : Grand Rapids, 1st City in Michigan, to Feature a Black Santa Claus
1972 : Grand Rapids, 1st City in Michigan, to Feature a Black Santa Claus
Dec 9 all-day
On December 9, 1972, Grand Rapids became the first Michigan city to climax its traditional Christmas parade with the arrival of a black Santa Claus. Source : WAKV, the Memory Station, December 9, 2018.
2020 : Lansing Lugnuts Invited To Affiliate With Oakland As
2020 : Lansing Lugnuts Invited To Affiliate With Oakland As
Dec 9 all-day
 The Lansing Lugnuts announced today that the team has been invited to join the minor league system of the 2020 American League West Champion Oakland Athletics. Under this invitation, the Lugnuts would become the High-A … Continue reading "2020 : Lansing Lugnuts Invited To Affiliate With Oakland As"
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1813 : Zachariah Chandler Born
1813 : Zachariah Chandler Born
Dec 10 all-day
Zacharish Chandler (1813-1879) was mayor of Detroit (1851–52), a four-term U.S. Senator from the state of Michigan (1857–75, 1879), and Secretary of the Interior under U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant (1875–77), staunch abolitionist, and Radical … Continue reading "1813 : Zachariah Chandler Born"
1887 : Michigan’s First Cremation
1887 : Michigan’s First Cremation
Dec 10 all-day
On December 10, 1887, the state’s first cremation was completed. The Detroit Crematorium was the first such facility in Michigan and the fifth in the United States. Sources: Historical Society of Michigan Michigan History Calendar. … Continue reading "1887 : Michigan’s First Cremation"
1887 : The Iron Horse Reaches Sault Ste. Marie
1887 : The Iron Horse Reaches Sault Ste. Marie
Dec 10 all-day
The Iron Horse (Soo Railroad Line) reached Sault Ste. Marie on this day in 1887, connecting the town to the outside world no matter how frozen the waterways might be. Source : Pasty Central Day … Continue reading "1887 : The Iron Horse Reaches Sault Ste. Marie"
1905 : Attorney General Says State Prisons Can No Longer Allow Inmates to Work for Private Companies
1905 : Attorney General Says State Prisons Can No Longer Allow Inmates to Work for Private Companies
Dec 10 all-day
The Michigan Attorney General halted the practice of contracting out state inmates to work for private industries. Source : Historical Society of Michigan
1914 : Old Newsboys’ Goodfellow Fund of Detroit Conceived by James Brady
1914 : Old Newsboys’ Goodfellow Fund of Detroit Conceived by James Brady
Dec 10 all-day
 The picture depicts a statue of Brady standing on Central Avenue on Belle Isle…. No kiddie without a Christmas. Since 1914, that’s been the mission of the Old Newsboys’ Goodfellow Fund of Detroit. This … Continue reading "1914 : Old Newsboys’ Goodfellow Fund of Detroit Conceived by James Brady"
1915 : Ford Produces 1 Millionth Model T
1915 : Ford Produces 1 Millionth Model T
Dec 10 all-day
 On December 10, 1915, the 1 millionth Ford car rolls off the assembly line at the River Rouge plant in Detroit. At first, Henry Ford had built his cars like every other automaker did: one … Continue reading "1915 : Ford Produces 1 Millionth Model T"
1956 : Decorating Hudson’s Christmas Tree
1956 : Decorating Hudson’s Christmas Tree
Dec 10 all-day
 A child’s reach usually exceeds his grasp, but that isn’t preventing this little boy, boosted by a ladder, from attempting to add a decoration to the tree on this downtown Hudson’s Christmas display. The young … Continue reading "1956 : Decorating Hudson’s Christmas Tree"
1971 : Free John Sinclair Rally Held at Crisler Arena
1971 : Free John Sinclair Rally Held at Crisler Arena
Dec 10 all-day
 John Sinclair, a Michigan native and alumnus of the University of Michigan- Flint, was an influential leader of the 1960’s counterculture. Sinclair also co-founded the White Panther Party, along with Pun Plamondon, in November 1968. … Continue reading "1971 : Free John Sinclair Rally Held at Crisler Arena"
1977 : Wenonah Hotel Fire, Bay City
1977 : Wenonah Hotel Fire, Bay City
Dec 10 all-day
 Forty years ago Dec. 10 this photo taken by an amateur was submitted to The Times and was part of the newspaper’s report of the devastating blaze that made national news. The worst fire in … Continue reading "1977 : Wenonah Hotel Fire, Bay City"
1994 : Albion College Wins NCAA Division III Football National Title
1994 : Albion College Wins NCAA Division III Football National Title
Dec 10 all-day
None of the experts believed Albion College would be strong contenders for the 1994 NCAA Division III football national title. Now, the entire Briton family is celebrating the 20th anniversary of that perfect season, which … Continue reading "1994 : Albion College Wins NCAA Division III Football National Title"
2011 : Mittengate in Michigan
2011 : Mittengate in Michigan
Dec 10 all-day
Last week the state of Wisconsin touched off a firestorm – snowstorm? – by suggesting that they might in fact qualify as a mitten state, prompting Pure Michigan to ask Who is the Real Mitten … Continue reading "2011 : Mittengate in Michigan"
2017 : Jack Morris and Alan Trammell Elected to Baseball Hall of Fame
2017 : Jack Morris and Alan Trammell Elected to Baseball Hall of Fame
Dec 10 all-day
Good things come to those who wait. Or, as many Tigers fans are saying: It’s about damn time Alan Trammell finally earns his rightful place in the Baseball Hall of Fame. The former shortstop and … Continue reading "2017 : Jack Morris and Alan Trammell Elected to Baseball Hall of Fame"
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1862 : Battle of Fredericksburg
1862 : Battle of Fredericksburg
Dec 11 all-day
 December 11-15, 1862 President Lincoln had fired Gen. George McClellan after the battle of Antietam, replacing him with Ambrose Burnside. Gen. Burnside hoped to outflank the Confederate forces of Gen. Robert E. Lee and move … Continue reading "1862 : Battle of Fredericksburg"
1862 : Drummer Boy of the Rappahannock Becomes National Hero or Not
1862 : Drummer Boy of the Rappahannock Becomes National Hero or Not
Dec 11 all-day
 Robert Henry Hendershot was twelve years old when he joined the 8th Michigan Infantry on August 19, 1862. However it was at the Battle of Fredericksburg, Virginia, on December 11, 1862 that he became famous. … Continue reading "1862 : Drummer Boy of the Rappahannock Becomes National Hero or Not"
1929 : Stout Airlines Reaches Milestone, 100,000 Passengers
1929 : Stout Airlines Reaches Milestone, 100,000 Passengers
Dec 11 all-day
On Dec. 11, 1929, Stout Airlines became the nation’s first airline to carry 100,000 passengers. The company served the upper Great Lakes region, relying heavily on the Ford Trimotor “Tin Goose” airplanes. Here is some … Continue reading "1929 : Stout Airlines Reaches Milestone, 100,000 Passengers"
1934 : 7 Michigan Legislators Die In Hotel Fire
1934 : 7 Michigan Legislators Die In Hotel Fire
Dec 11 all-day
Early on the morning of December 11, 1934, the Kerns Hotel in Lansing caught on fire. Seven Michigan legislators died in the fire, along with 25 other guests. The fire was the worst in Lansing’s … Continue reading "1934 : 7 Michigan Legislators Die In Hotel Fire"
1948 : Spartans Celebrate State’s Admission to Big 10
1948 : Spartans Celebrate State’s Admission to Big 10
Dec 11 all-day
A crowd estimated at 6,000 students jammed areas around the Union on December 11, 1948 to celebrate State’s admission to the Big 10. Source : “A Century of Athletics at State”, Michigan State University Magazine, … Continue reading "1948 : Spartans Celebrate State’s Admission to Big 10"
1971 : Lake Huron Water Supply Explosion
1971 : Lake Huron Water Supply Explosion
Dec 11 all-day
 On Dec. 11, 1971, a shotgun-like blast claimed the lives of 22 men working on a water intake tunnel beneath the bed of Lake Huron. A pocket of methane trapped within a layer of Antrim … Continue reading "1971 : Lake Huron Water Supply Explosion"
2010 : the Big Chill Sets Attendance Record for Outdoor Hockey Game
2010 : the Big Chill Sets Attendance Record for Outdoor Hockey Game
Dec 11 all-day
 The Michigan salutes the student section at Michigan Stadium following the Wolverines’ 5-0 win over Michigan State at Saturday’s Big Chill at the Big House. It really wasn’t much of a game by hockey standards. … Continue reading "2010 : the Big Chill Sets Attendance Record for Outdoor Hockey Game"
2014 : First Marriage Proposal on Michigan House Floor
2014 : First Marriage Proposal on Michigan House Floor
Dec 11 all-day
A different kind of legislative proposal has been reached on the floor of the state House. Rep. Klint Kesto of Commerce Township got down on one knee to propose to his girlfriend, Delena Kajy, at … Continue reading "2014 : First Marriage Proposal on Michigan House Floor"
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1867 : First Michigan Sheriff Killed in the Line of Duty
1867 : First Michigan Sheriff Killed in the Line of Duty
Dec 12 all-day
On December 3, 1867 Kalamazoo County Sheriff Benjamin F. Orcutt was shot trying to prevent a jail break. He died a few days later on December 12th. The residents of Kalamazoo County admired the sheriff … Continue reading "1867 : First Michigan Sheriff Killed in the Line of Duty"
1919 : Michigan Coeds End Tap Dance Strike
1919 : Michigan Coeds End Tap Dance Strike
Dec 12 all-day
On December 12, 1919, University of Michigan coeds ended a dance strike, which started a week earlier because females were not permitted to use the Michigan Union taproom, when the men announced they would continue … Continue reading "1919 : Michigan Coeds End Tap Dance Strike"
1970 : Tears of a Clown Reaches #1
1970 : Tears of a Clown Reaches #1
Dec 12 all-day
While Motown Records founder Berry Gordy surely deserves credit for establishing the creative philosophy and business strategy that turned his Detroit-based company into a hit-making machine in the 1960s, the inner workings of that machine … Continue reading "1970 : Tears of a Clown Reaches #1"
1979 : Inaugeral Event Held At Joe Louis Arena
1979 : Inaugeral Event Held At Joe Louis Arena
Dec 12 all-day
On December 12, 1979, the inaugural event at Joe Louis Arena in downtown Detroit featured a men’s basketball game, pitting Willie McCarter’s University of Detroit squad against Johnny Orr’s final team at the University of … Continue reading "1979 : Inaugeral Event Held At Joe Louis Arena"
2000 : General Motors Announces It Will Phase Out Oldsmobile
2000 : General Motors Announces It Will Phase Out Oldsmobile
Dec 12 all-day
On December 12, 2000, General Motors announced it would phase out production of Oldsmobile, the nation’s oldest automotive brand name. The first Oldsmobile was built by Ransom Eli Olds in 1897. Source : Historical Society … Continue reading "2000 : General Motors Announces It Will Phase Out Oldsmobile"
2012 : Right to Work Demonstrators Besiege Capitol
2012 : Right to Work Demonstrators Besiege Capitol
Dec 12 all-day
Union members and others packed the Michigan Capitol on December 6, 2012 to protest the passage of bills promoting Right to Work by both the Michigan House and Senate. Police attempted to close the doors … Continue reading "2012 : Right to Work Demonstrators Besiege Capitol"
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1860: Lewis Cass Resigns as U.S. Secretary of State
1860: Lewis Cass Resigns as U.S. Secretary of State
Dec 13 all-day
 Disgusted with the failure of then-President James Buchanan to pursue a stronger policy that might have headed off the threatened secession of southern states, Lewis Cass resigned as Secretary of State and returned to Detroit. … Continue reading "1860: Lewis Cass Resigns as U.S. Secretary of State"
1948 : Ted Nugent Born in Detroit
1948 : Ted Nugent Born in Detroit
Dec 13 all-day
 Ted Nugent has been dubbed “the Motor City Madman.” He is a renowned rock musician, hunter and political activist. His views and his music are often controversial. Love him or hate him, however, he is … Continue reading "1948 : Ted Nugent Born in Detroit"
1961 : Former President Dwight Eisenhower Addresses Michigan Constitutional Convention
1961 : Former President Dwight Eisenhower Addresses Michigan Constitutional Convention
Dec 13 all-day
 Former President Dwight D. Eisenhower addressed delegates to the Michigan Constitutional Convention at the Lansing Civic Center on December 13, 1961 and spoke about several topics including civil rights and term limits. “The responsibilities best … Continue reading "1961 : Former President Dwight Eisenhower Addresses Michigan Constitutional Convention"
1983 : Pistons and Nuggets Play Record-Breaking Game
1983 : Pistons and Nuggets Play Record-Breaking Game
Dec 13 all-day
On December 13, 1983, the Detroit Pistons defeat the Denver Nuggets by a score of 186-184 in triple overtime, in the highest scoring game in the history of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Both teams … Continue reading "1983 : Pistons and Nuggets Play Record-Breaking Game"
2003 : MSU-Kentucky Basketbowl Held at Ford Field
2003 : MSU-Kentucky Basketbowl Held at Ford Field
Dec 13 all-day
 The Basketbowl was a college basketball game between Michigan State University and the University of Kentucky held on December 13, 2003 at Ford Field, a domed American football stadium in Detroit, Michigan. The announced crowd … Continue reading "2003 : MSU-Kentucky Basketbowl Held at Ford Field"
2014 : Detroit Newscaster Bill Bonds Dies
2014 : Detroit Newscaster Bill Bonds Dies
Dec 13 all-day
 There was likely no better showman on Detroit TV than WXYZ anchor Bill Bonds. While anchoring a newscast, Bonds let it be known that he could not plug Girl Scout cookies on the air because … Continue reading "2014 : Detroit Newscaster Bill Bonds Dies"
2019 : Saginaw Native Stars in Richard Jewell, Clint Eastwood Movie
2019 : Saginaw Native Stars in Richard Jewell, Clint Eastwood Movie
Dec 13 all-day
A Saginaw native who has been climbing the Hollywood ranks as an actor is the star of a new Clint Eastwood movie about Richard Jewell which premieres on December 13, 2019. Paul Walter Hauser portrays … Continue reading "2019 : Saginaw Native Stars in Richard Jewell, Clint Eastwood Movie"
2020 : Pfizer Coronavirus Vaccine Begins Shipping
2020 : Pfizer Coronavirus Vaccine Begins Shipping
Dec 13 all-day
The first batch of coronavirus vaccines was loaded onto trucks at a Pfizer plant in Portage, Michigan, and shipped out across the country on Sunday morning, a landmark moment in the fight against the deadly … Continue reading "2020 : Pfizer Coronavirus Vaccine Begins Shipping"
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1836 : Michigan Trades the Toledo Strip for the Upper Peninsula and Statehood
1836 : Michigan Trades the Toledo Strip for the Upper Peninsula and Statehood
Dec 14 all-day
 The “Mitchell Map” from the late 1700s was the basis for drawing the boundary between the Michigan Territory and the state of Ohio. Inaccurate map-making lay at the heart of the dispute over the Toledo … Continue reading "1836 : Michigan Trades the Toledo Strip for the Upper Peninsula and Statehood"
1929 : Kalamazoo Airport Becomes First Municipal Airport in State
1929 : Kalamazoo Airport Becomes First Municipal Airport in State
Dec 14 all-day
On December 14, 1929, the Kalamazoo Airport received Michigan license number 1 and became the first municipal airport in the state. The inspiration of an airport in Kalamazoo began in 1925. In May of 1926, … Continue reading "1929 : Kalamazoo Airport Becomes First Municipal Airport in State"
1936 : Harold E. Bledsoe, Only African American To Cast An Electoral College Vote for Franklin Delano Roosevelt
1936 : Harold E. Bledsoe, Only African American To Cast An Electoral College Vote for Franklin Delano Roosevelt
Dec 14 all-day
 In 1936, Harold E. Bledsoe, a prominent Detroit attorney, was the only African American to cast an electoral college vote for Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The Electoral College: In 1787, founding fathers like Alexander Hamilton advocated … Continue reading "1936 : Harold E. Bledsoe, Only African American To Cast An Electoral College Vote for Franklin Delano Roosevelt"
1944 : Charles Leroy Thomas, First African-American to Win Distinguished Cross
1944 : Charles Leroy Thomas, First African-American to Win Distinguished Cross
Dec 14 all-day
 Detroiter Charles Leroy Thomas earns the Distinguished Cross, the highest military honor not requiring congressional approval; he is the first African-American soldier to be so honored. In 1995 the Pentagon convened a group who decided … Continue reading "1944 : Charles Leroy Thomas, First African-American to Win Distinguished Cross"
1965 : Actor Ted Raimi Born
1965 : Actor Ted Raimi Born
Dec 14 all-day
Ted Raimi was born in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Celia (née Abrams), a lingerie store proprietor, and Leonard Raimi, a furniture store proprietor. Ted was raised in Conservative Judaism; his ancestors immigrated from Russia … Continue reading "1965 : Actor Ted Raimi Born"
1980 : Jackson State Prison Expose Launched
1980 : Jackson State Prison Expose Launched
Dec 14 all-day
 Over seven days in November 1980, the Free Press ran 52 of Yamasaki’s remarkable photographs, which would later win the 1981 Pulitzer Prize for Feature Photography. They managed to reveal not just the power (and … Continue reading "1980 : Jackson State Prison Expose Launched"
2009 : Erma Henderson, Detroit Civil Rights Crusader, Dies
2009 : Erma Henderson, Detroit Civil Rights Crusader, Dies
Dec 14 all-day
Erma Henderson was the first African American woman elected to the Detroit City Council and served as council president for many years. Born in Pensacola, Florida in 1917, her family moved to Detroit within a … Continue reading "2009 : Erma Henderson, Detroit Civil Rights Crusader, Dies"
2011 : Fireworks Are Legal Again In Michigan
2011 : Fireworks Are Legal Again In Michigan
Dec 14 all-day
 On April 16, 1927 the Michigan legislature passed a ban on the sale of fireworks, a ban that would remain in effect until December 14, 2011. On that day Governor Snyder signed a bill allowing … Continue reading "2011 : Fireworks Are Legal Again In Michigan"
2015 : Flint Declares State of Emergency Over Contaminated Water Supplies
2015 : Flint Declares State of Emergency Over Contaminated Water Supplies
Dec 14 all-day
Flint once thrived as the home of the nation’s largest General Motors plant. The city’s economic decline began during the 1980s, when GM downsized. In 2011, the state of Michigan took over Flint’s finances after … Continue reading "2015 : Flint Declares State of Emergency Over Contaminated Water Supplies"
2018 : Clint Eastwood’s The Mule Recalls Michigan Drug Bust
2018 : Clint Eastwood’s The Mule Recalls Michigan Drug Bust
Dec 14 all-day
 The names are different. So are the locations and details. But the seed for Clint Eastwood’s “The Mule,” which opens Friday, was planted by the infamous Michigan bust of an elderly drug mule for a cocaine pipeline … Continue reading "2018 : Clint Eastwood’s The Mule Recalls Michigan Drug Bust"
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1819 : M-1, Woodward Avenue, Michigan’s First Surveyed Road
1819 : M-1, Woodward Avenue, Michigan’s First Surveyed Road
Dec 15 all-day
On December 15, 1819, the Pontiac Road, Michigan’s first surveyed road, was laid out in Detroit. It is now known as M-1, or Woodward Avenue. Wikipedia takes the tale of Woodward Avenue back even further. … Continue reading "1819 : M-1, Woodward Avenue, Michigan’s First Surveyed Road"
1917 : Detroit Suffering From Coal Shortages
1917 : Detroit Suffering From Coal Shortages
Dec 15 all-day
Detroit News Headlines on Page One state that “Solid Trains of Coal Speeding to Detroit As City Burns its Last” (December 15, 1917). Due to icy winter weather, the lives of babies and invalids are … Continue reading "1917 : Detroit Suffering From Coal Shortages"
1921 : 1st Patient Admitted to Fort Custer Hospital
1921 : 1st Patient Admitted to Fort Custer Hospital
Dec 15 all-day
 On December 15, 1921, the first patient was admitted to a new hospital at Camp Custer in Battle Creek, the only tuberculosis hospital in the country at the time, operated by the American Legion for … Continue reading "1921 : 1st Patient Admitted to Fort Custer Hospital"
1935 : Detroit Lions Win First Championship
1935 : Detroit Lions Win First Championship
Dec 15 all-day
On December 15, 1935, the Detroit Lions defeated the New York Giants for the National Football League Championship before a crowd of 15,000 at the University of Detroit Stadium. Each of the Lions received $7,207 … Continue reading "1935 : Detroit Lions Win First Championship"
1976 : John Wayne Orders Santa Suit from Bronner’s
1976 : John Wayne Orders Santa Suit from Bronner’s
Dec 15 all-day
On this day, actor John Wayne ordered a Santa suit from Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland in Frankenmuth. Source : Michigan History, November/December 2021, p.9.
1979: Detroit Red Wings Play Last Game at Olympia Stadium
1979: Detroit Red Wings Play Last Game at Olympia Stadium
Dec 15 all-day
The curtain finally closed on December 15, 1979. After 52 years and nearly 1,800 National Hockey League games, the Detroit Red Wings bid adieu to Olympia Stadium. For the last game, the Red Wings played … Continue reading "1979: Detroit Red Wings Play Last Game at Olympia Stadium"
1997 : Charles Woodson Receives the Heisman
1997 : Charles Woodson Receives the Heisman
Dec 15 all-day
December 15, 1997 At 6-feet 2-inches and 200 pounds, Charles Woodson is the third Michigan Wolverine to win the Heisman Trophy. The exciting junior cornerback garnered numerous post-season honors including First Team All-American by the … Continue reading "1997 : Charles Woodson Receives the Heisman"
2018 : Santas for the Cause
2018 : Santas for the Cause
Dec 15 all-day
 Santa Attack!, photo by Tom Clark The annual Santa Claus for the Cause takes place December 13-14, 2018. It’s a pub crawl and just $10 gets you a Santa Suit and supports local charities. The fifth Santa … Continue reading "2018 : Santas for the Cause"
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1808 : Kinsley Scott Bingham Born
1808 : Kinsley Scott Bingham Born
Dec 16 all-day
 Kinsley Scott Bingham (December 16, 1808 – October 5, 1861) was a U.S. Representative, a U.S. Senator, and the 11th Governor of the state of Michigan. Republicans will appreciate that his election started a quarter … Continue reading "1808 : Kinsley Scott Bingham Born"
1909 : Detroiter’s Form Michigan’s First Aero Club
1909 : Detroiter’s Form Michigan’s First Aero Club
Dec 16 all-day
On December 16, 1909, 44 prominent Detroiters met at the Pontchartrain Hotel in Detroit, and with the help of Orville and Wilbur Wright, organized Michigan’s first aero club. The following day the members conducted Detroit’s … Continue reading "1909 : Detroiter’s Form Michigan’s First Aero Club"
1968 : Turkeyville Founded
1968 : Turkeyville Founded
Dec 16 all-day
Any self-respecting Mid-Michigander knows of Turkeyville, six miles north of Marshall…but have you ever wondered how and when it got started? After Wayne & Marjorie Cornwell were married in 1943, Wayne decided he would make … Continue reading "1968 : Turkeyville Founded"
2011 : Michigan’s Christmas Tree Ships
2011 : Michigan’s Christmas Tree Ships
Dec 16 all-day
Michigan has traditionally supplied the city of Chicago with thousands of Christmas trees. Read on to learn about an early Christmas Tree Ship disaster and a recent posting about a 2011 Christmas Tree ship arriving … Continue reading "2011 : Michigan’s Christmas Tree Ships"
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1798 : First Election Held in What Would Later Become the State of Michigan
1798 : First Election Held in What Would Later Become the State of Michigan
Dec 17 all-day
On December 17, 1798 the first American election was held in the Northwest Territory. Wayne County included all of Michigan. Solomon Sibley won but opponents charged that his friends supplied liquor to those who voted … Continue reading "1798 : First Election Held in What Would Later Become the State of Michigan"
1798 : Solomon Sibley Elected to Nortwest Territory General Assembly
1798 : Solomon Sibley Elected to Nortwest Territory General Assembly
Dec 17 all-day
 On December 17, 1798, Solomon Sibley was elected the Detroit delegate to the Northwest Territory General Assembly. Sibley was very active in the Territorial Government and was instrumental in introducing and passing legislation which incorporated … Continue reading "1798 : Solomon Sibley Elected to Nortwest Territory General Assembly"
1908 : The Nation’s First Factory Built, Motorized Fire Engine Goes Into Service in Lansing
1908 : The Nation’s First Factory Built, Motorized Fire Engine Goes Into Service in Lansing
Dec 17 all-day
 Lansing, Michigan leads the way by putting the first factory built, motorized fire engine into service on on December 17, 1908. By 1910 motorized fire engines were being produced by all the major manufacturers. Here’s … Continue reading "1908 : The Nation’s First Factory Built, Motorized Fire Engine Goes Into Service in Lansing"
2018 : McLaren Greater Lansing Hospital Groundbreaking Ceremony Held
2018 : McLaren Greater Lansing Hospital Groundbreaking Ceremony Held
Dec 17 all-day
 McLaren Greater Lansing held a groundbreaking ceremony Monday for its new hospital. They say it’s going to improve Mid-Michigan’s health care and economy. A bare field sits in the back of Michigan State University’s corporate … Continue reading "2018 : McLaren Greater Lansing Hospital Groundbreaking Ceremony Held"
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1868 : Detroit’s First Velocipedist (Bicyclist) Hit the Street
1868 : Detroit’s First Velocipedist (Bicyclist) Hit the Street
Dec 18 all-day
 On Friday, December 18th, 1868, Detroit’s first bicyclist hit the street. According to this colorful Detroit Free Press article, “The First Detroit Velocipedist,” which was published on the 19th: Yesterday the first Detroit man that … Continue reading "1868 : Detroit’s First Velocipedist (Bicyclist) Hit the Street"
1886 : Future Detroit Tiger Ty Cobb Born in Georgia
1886 : Future Detroit Tiger Ty Cobb Born in Georgia
Dec 18 all-day
 On December 18, 1886, Detroit Tiger great Ty Cobb was born. Although Cobb is from Georgia, he spent a career playing in Detroit, where he earned a reputation as one of baseball’s best players. Cobb … Continue reading "1886 : Future Detroit Tiger Ty Cobb Born in Georgia"
1927 : Michigan Installs First Yellow Lines on Highways To Indicate No Passing
1927 : Michigan Installs First Yellow Lines on Highways To Indicate No Passing
Dec 18 all-day
Michigan’s highway department became the first to paint solid yellow lines to indicate no passing zones on curves and hills. Signs had to be posted telling out-of-state motorists what the lines meant. Source : Historical … Continue reading "1927 : Michigan Installs First Yellow Lines on Highways To Indicate No Passing"
1963 : Martin Luther King, Jr. Visits Western Michigan University
1963 : Martin Luther King, Jr. Visits Western Michigan University
Dec 18 all-day
 King spoke at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo on Dec. 18, 1963, four months after the March on Washington and weeks after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. About 2,000 people showed up during … Continue reading "1963 : Martin Luther King, Jr. Visits Western Michigan University"
2021 : Ferris State Wins DII National Football Championship
2021 : Ferris State Wins DII National Football Championship
Dec 18 all-day
Ferris State won its first Division II football national championship, rolling Valdosta State of Georgia, 58-17, on Saturday night in McKinney, Texas. The Bulldogs finished the season 14-0, and set a Division II playoff record … Continue reading "2021 : Ferris State Wins DII National Football Championship"
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1856 : Celery Formally Introduced As New Vegetable in Kalamazoo
1856 : Celery Formally Introduced As New Vegetable in Kalamazoo
Dec 19 all-day
 On Dec. 19, 1856, celery was served at the Burdick Hotel’s Grand Ballroom during a banquet to honor the city’s firefighters. It was the first time the vegetable had made a public introduction. The stringy … Continue reading "1856 : Celery Formally Introduced As New Vegetable in Kalamazoo"
1862 : Lake Superior Safety Fuse Company Launched
1862 : Lake Superior Safety Fuse Company Launched
Dec 19 all-day
After perfecting a fuse making machine and scoring a patent, Joseph Blight and Thomas Dunstone, with financial backing from Richard Uren, start the Lake Superior Safety Fuse Company in Eagle River, Michigan, which continued operations … Continue reading "1862 : Lake Superior Safety Fuse Company Launched"
1887 : Detroit Symphony Performs for First Time
1887 : Detroit Symphony Performs for First Time
Dec 19 all-day
 The Detroit Symphony Orchestra performed the first concert of its first subscription season at 8:00 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 19, 1887 at the Detroit Opera House. Over the years, the DSO was the first orchestra … Continue reading "1887 : Detroit Symphony Performs for First Time"
2013 : Treasures of the Detroit Institute of Arts Listed
2013 : Treasures of the Detroit Institute of Arts Listed
Dec 19 all-day
 When Detroit declared bankruptcy on July 18, 2013, many of its debt holders wanted the city to sell treasured holdings of the Detroit Institute of Arts to cover its debts. Attached is the final report … Continue reading "2013 : Treasures of the Detroit Institute of Arts Listed"
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1808 : Laura Smith Haviland Born, Famous Michigan Abolitionist
1808 : Laura Smith Haviland Born, Famous Michigan Abolitionist
Dec 20 all-day
 In 1829, Laura Haviland moved to Lenawee County with her Quaker husband and quickly assimilated into the Lenawee County abolitionist movement. They joined the Logan Female Anti-Slavery Society, founded by Elizabeth Chandler. This was the … Continue reading "1808 : Laura Smith Haviland Born, Famous Michigan Abolitionist"
1868 : Harvey Firestone Born
1868 : Harvey Firestone Born
Dec 20 all-day
On December 20, 1868 Harvey Samuel Firestone was born. Later in life he would start the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company. His fortune was assured when Henry Ford chose his company to supply tires for … Continue reading "1868 : Harvey Firestone Born"
1897 : Traverse City Post Office Offers Home Delivery for First Time
1897 : Traverse City Post Office Offers Home Delivery for First Time
Dec 20 all-day
On December 20, 1897, five postal carriers offered the first home delivery in Traverse City, having to take time at each stop to explain that residents no longer had to make the trek to the … Continue reading "1897 : Traverse City Post Office Offers Home Delivery for First Time"
1920 : First Automatic Tri-Color Traffic Signal in Detroit
1920 : First Automatic Tri-Color Traffic Signal in Detroit
Dec 20 all-day
 On December 20, 1920, the first automatic tri-color traffic signal was installed in Detroit. Designed by Detroit Police officer William Potts, the new signal added the amber “caution” light & became the standard by the … Continue reading "1920 : First Automatic Tri-Color Traffic Signal in Detroit"
1948 : United States Supreme Court Upholds Ban on Female Bartenders in Michigan
1948 : United States Supreme Court Upholds Ban on Female Bartenders in Michigan
Dec 20 all-day
 A Michigan law banning female bartenders, unless they were the wife or daughter of the bar owner, was upheld in a 6-3 decision by the United States Supreme Court. Source : Historical Society of Michigan … Continue reading "1948 : United States Supreme Court Upholds Ban on Female Bartenders in Michigan"
1970 : Detroit Lions Become First NFL Wild Card Team
1970 : Detroit Lions Become First NFL Wild Card Team
Dec 20 all-day
December 20, 1970 – Detroit Lions 20, Green Bay Packers 0 The 1970 Packers were nothing special but they did have a chance to ruin Detroit’s playoff chances the last game of the season. They … Continue reading "1970 : Detroit Lions Become First NFL Wild Card Team"
1971 : Al Kaline the First Detroit Tiger To Make 6 Figures
1971 : Al Kaline the First Detroit Tiger To Make 6 Figures
Dec 20 all-day
 Al Kaline signed a contract making him the first ballplayer in Detroit Tiger history to receive a salary of $100,000 for a season. He had complied a career batting average of .300 during his 19 … Continue reading "1971 : Al Kaline the First Detroit Tiger To Make 6 Figures"
1989 : “Roger and Me” opens in U.S. theaters
1989 : “Roger and Me” opens in U.S. theaters
Dec 20 all-day
On December 20, 1989, the provocative filmmaker Michael Moore’s satirical documentary “Roger & Me” opens in theaters across the United States. (It had made a brief tour of film festivals earlier that year, before it … Continue reading "1989 : “Roger and Me” opens in U.S. theaters"
2017 : Acclaimed Sportscaster Dick Enberg, a CMU Grad, Dies at 82
2017 : Acclaimed Sportscaster Dick Enberg, a CMU Grad, Dies at 82
Dec 20 all-day
 Legendary sports broadcaster Dick Enberg, who was born in Mount Clemens in 1935, and attended Central Michigan University, died Thursday morning at his La Jolla, Calif., home. He was 82. The family said they believe … Continue reading "2017 : Acclaimed Sportscaster Dick Enberg, a CMU Grad, Dies at 82"
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1934 : Hollywood Begins Filming Car 99, a Police Drama Set in Northern Michigan
1934 : Hollywood Begins Filming Car 99, a Police Drama Set in Northern Michigan
Dec 21 all-day
 On Dec. 21, 1934, “Car 99,” a police drama about law enforcement in northern Michigan, began filming in Hollywood. Actor Fred MacMurray plays officer Ross Martin of the Michigan State Police in the film. William … Continue reading "1934 : Hollywood Begins Filming Car 99, a Police Drama Set in Northern Michigan"
1997 : Barry Sanders, Detroit Lion, Sets Rushing Record
1997 : Barry Sanders, Detroit Lion, Sets Rushing Record
Dec 21 all-day
The 2,000 yard rushing club is one of the most exclusive clubs in the NFL and reflects nothing less but an amazing season for a running back. Today there are only five running backs that … Continue reading "1997 : Barry Sanders, Detroit Lion, Sets Rushing Record"
2001 : the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, first international wildlife refuge in North America, signed into law
2001 : the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, first international wildlife refuge in North America, signed into law
Dec 21 all-day
 A view of the Detroit River and Humbug Island from a wildlife observation deck in Humbug Marsh Unit of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge in Gibraltar. (Photo courtesy of Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge.) On … Continue reading "2001 : the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, first international wildlife refuge in North America, signed into law"
2018 : Bird Box Opens, Film Starring Sandra Bullock, Based on Michigan Novel
2018 : Bird Box Opens, Film Starring Sandra Bullock, Based on Michigan Novel
Dec 21 all-day
Josh Malerman, a metro Detroit author, is usually the one dishing out the anxiety. His chilling, hypnotically paced 2014 novel “Bird Box” is a can’t-put-down depiction of what happens when the mere act of looking at an … Continue reading "2018 : Bird Box Opens, Film Starring Sandra Bullock, Based on Michigan Novel"
2018 : Winter Solstice
2018 : Winter Solstice
Dec 21 all-day
 Ready for the 2018 winter solstice? Unless you stare at your clock and pay very close attention to the position of the sun and the tilt of the Earth’s axis, you probably won’t even notice … Continue reading "2018 : Winter Solstice"
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1917 : Albert Carl Kaltschmidt Found Guilty of Espionage
1917 : Albert Carl Kaltschmidt Found Guilty of Espionage
Dec 22 all-day
April 6, 1917 marks the 100th anniversary of America’s entrance into World War I. But nearly two years earlier, Detroit was the target of a plot to blow up a local manufacturing company plus a … Continue reading "1917 : Albert Carl Kaltschmidt Found Guilty of Espionage"
1978 : Legal Drinking Age Returned to 21
1978 : Legal Drinking Age Returned to 21
Dec 22 all-day
On Dec. 22, 1978, Michigan’s drinking age was raised to age 21, where it has remained ever since. It came as a result of a constitutional amendment approved by state voters in the November general … Continue reading "1978 : Legal Drinking Age Returned to 21"
1984 : Like A Virgin Tops Charts
1984 : Like A Virgin Tops Charts
Dec 22 all-day
Michigan native Madonna’s song “Like a Virgin” reached the top of the Billboard charts on Dec. 22, 1984 — and stayed there for six weeks. The blonde who was born Madonna Louise Ciccone has had … Continue reading "1984 : Like A Virgin Tops Charts"
1998 : Comerica Bank Spends $66 Million For Naming Rights on Comerica Park
1998 : Comerica Bank Spends $66 Million For Naming Rights on Comerica Park
Dec 22 all-day
 Comerica Bank spent $66,000,000 to have its name on the new home of the Detroit Tigers, Comerica Park. Source : Historical Society of Michigan
2014 : Happy Holidays from the U.S. Department of Interior
2014 : Happy Holidays from the U.S. Department of Interior
Dec 22 all-day
Happy Holidays from the U.S. Department of Interior
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1823 : A Visit from St. Nicholas, also known as The Night Before Christmas, First Published in a Newspaper
1823 : A Visit from St. Nicholas, also known as The Night Before Christmas, First Published in a Newspaper
Dec 23 all-day
 According to legend, Clement Clarke Moore wrote his immortal poem, A Visit from St. Nicholas, also known as The Night Before Christmas, for his family on Christmas Eve 1822. He never intended that it be … Continue reading "1823 : A Visit from St. Nicholas, also known as The Night Before Christmas, First Published in a Newspaper"
1888 : Hermansville, Michigan Burns
1888 : Hermansville, Michigan Burns
Dec 23 all-day
 On December 23, 1888, the lumber town of Hermansville, Michigan on U.S. 2 near the Wisconsin border burned to the ground due to a lack of a fire department and limited water supply to fight … Continue reading "1888 : Hermansville, Michigan Burns"
1978 : 18 Year Old Michiganders Lose Right to Drink Alcohol
1978 : 18 Year Old Michiganders Lose Right to Drink Alcohol
Dec 23 all-day
On December 23, 1978, a law took effect that, after nearly seven years at 18, returned Michigan’s legal drinking age to 21. That November, Michigan voters had approved a constitutional amendment to make the change. … Continue reading "1978 : 18 Year Old Michiganders Lose Right to Drink Alcohol"
2015 : Michigan Records First December Tornado
2015 : Michigan Records First December Tornado
Dec 23 all-day
The National Weather Service in White Lake, MI has confirmed that an EF-1 tornado touched down in Canton, MI yesterday, December 23, 2015. Looking at the historical tornado database from the Storm Prediction Center, this … Continue reading "2015 : Michigan Records First December Tornado"
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1814 : Treaty of Ghent Signed, Returns Fort Mackinac to Michigan
1814 : Treaty of Ghent Signed, Returns Fort Mackinac to Michigan
Dec 24 all-day
 The Treaty of Ghent was signed ending the War of 1812. Both governments had to ratify the treaty. The treaty provided for the return of captured territory including the return of Fort Mackinac to the … Continue reading "1814 : Treaty of Ghent Signed, Returns Fort Mackinac to Michigan"
1864 : Christmas Eve in Georgia
1864 : Christmas Eve in Georgia
Dec 24 all-day
 21st Michigan Infantry During the Civil War Many of William T. Sherman’s “bummers” surely deserved the poor reputations they received as they plowed through Georgia in December 1864, raiding the farms that fed Confederate armies … Continue reading "1864 : Christmas Eve in Georgia"
1913 : Italian Hall Disaster in Calumet Claims 72 Lives
1913 : Italian Hall Disaster in Calumet Claims 72 Lives
Dec 24 all-day
The Italian Hall Disaster in Calumet, Michigan occurred during the copper mine strikes on Christmas Eve in 1913. It was a benefit Christmas party for the children of striking miners in Calumet. The program was … Continue reading "1913 : Italian Hall Disaster in Calumet Claims 72 Lives"
1955 : Learn How NORAD Started Tracking Santa
1955 : Learn How NORAD Started Tracking Santa
Dec 24 all-day
 If you and your children would like to track Santa’s journey on Christmas Eve, visit NORAD Tracks Santa. Every year on Christmas Eve, Santa leaves the North Pole and travels across the world to … Continue reading "1955 : Learn How NORAD Started Tracking Santa"
2016 : Google Santa Village
2016 : Google Santa Village
Dec 24 all-day
 01:11 Check out Google Santa Tracker liftoff. For more fun, explore, play, and learn with the Santa’s elves at Google’s Santa Village/Santa Tracker page. For 12 years now, an entire generation of excited kids … Continue reading "2016 : Google Santa Village"
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1660 : Michigan’s First Recorded Christmas Celebration
1660 : Michigan’s First Recorded Christmas Celebration
Dec 25 all-day
Michigan’s first known Christmas celebration was recorded by Father René Ménard who honored the occasion near Keweenaw Bay with a few coureurs-de-bois and some Huron converts. Source : Historical Society of Michigan For more about … Continue reading "1660 : Michigan’s First Recorded Christmas Celebration"
1811 : Eber Brock Ward Born, Detroit’s First Millionaire
1811 : Eber Brock Ward Born, Detroit’s First Millionaire
Dec 25 all-day
 Eber Brock Ward (December 25, 1811 – January 2, 1875), an iron and steel manufacturer and shipbuilder, was known as the “steamship king of the Great Lakes” and as the “first of the iron kings.” … Continue reading "1811 : Eber Brock Ward Born, Detroit’s First Millionaire"
1911 : Chief David Shoppenagon Dies
1911 : Chief David Shoppenagon Dies
Dec 25 all-day
 From the Michigan historical marker: Side 1 Chief David Shoppenagon was born in Indianfields, a Chippewa Indian Village in the Saginaw River Valley. In 1795 his grandfather, also a Chippewa chief, was among the Indians … Continue reading "1911 : Chief David Shoppenagon Dies"
1965 : Snowboarding Invented in Muskegon
1965 : Snowboarding Invented in Muskegon
Dec 25 all-day
 It took more than 30 years, from 1965 to 1998, for the sport of snowboarding to evolve from a backyard activity in West Michigan to an Olympic event. The journey involved many twists and turns, … Continue reading "1965 : Snowboarding Invented in Muskegon"
2009 : Underwear Bomber Attempts to Bring Down Northwest Airlines Flight 253 on Way to Detroit
2009 : Underwear Bomber Attempts to Bring Down Northwest Airlines Flight 253 on Way to Detroit
Dec 25 all-day
 Northwest Airlines Flight 253 was an international passenger flight from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol in Haarlemmermeer, Netherlands, to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport in Romulus, Michigan, United States. The flight was the target of a failed … Continue reading "2009 : Underwear Bomber Attempts to Bring Down Northwest Airlines Flight 253 on Way to Detroit"
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1903 : Train Wreck in Grand Rapids
1903 : Train Wreck in Grand Rapids
Dec 26 all-day
On December 26, 1903, high winds extinguished a warning light and two Pere Marquette passenger trains collided near Grand Rapids, killing 22-people. Source : WAKV, the Memory Stations Facebook Page
1913 : Michigan Central Depot Opens in Detroit
1913 : Michigan Central Depot Opens in Detroit
Dec 26 all-day
 On December 26, 1913, the first train pulled into Detroit’s Michigan Central Station – the tallest train station in the world at the time and a proud, towering symbol of the city’s progress. When travelers stepped … Continue reading "1913 : Michigan Central Depot Opens in Detroit"
1944 : First Michigan Soldier Buys a Home With a VA Loan
1944 : First Michigan Soldier Buys a Home With a VA Loan
Dec 26 all-day
Floyd M. Edwards of Kalamazoo became the first Michigan veteran to take advantage of the “G.I. Bill of Rights” when he purchased a home with a VA Loan. Source : Historical Society of Michigan
1963 : Boyne Highlands Resort Opens
1963 : Boyne Highlands Resort Opens
Dec 26 all-day
 On this day Boyne Highlands Resort opens with two of the world’s first triple chair ski lifts and an Alpine style ski lodge. Harbor Springs residents actually started the resort in 1955-56 but called it … Continue reading "1963 : Boyne Highlands Resort Opens"
1976 : Senator Philip Hart of Michigan Dies
1976 : Senator Philip Hart of Michigan Dies
Dec 26 all-day
 Philip Hart died of cancer on 26th December, 1976. In a tribute to his distinguished career, Edward Kennedy suggested that the new Senate building be named after Hart. A bill sponsored by 85 senators passed, … Continue reading "1976 : Senator Philip Hart of Michigan Dies"
2010 : Geraldine Hoff Doyle, the Real-Life Model for We Can Do It Rosie the Riveter, Dies In Lansing
2010 : Geraldine Hoff Doyle, the Real-Life Model for We Can Do It Rosie the Riveter, Dies In Lansing
Dec 26 all-day
 At 17, a young factory worker from Lansing, Michigan named Geraldine Doyle unwittingly inspired J. Howard Miller’s iconic “We Can Do It!” poster, an image that later became a powerful symbol of American women’s contributions … Continue reading "2010 : Geraldine Hoff Doyle, the Real-Life Model for We Can Do It Rosie the Riveter, Dies In Lansing"
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1821 : First Public Executions in Michigan
1821 : First Public Executions in Michigan
Dec 27 all-day
Two Indians, accused of murder, were hung in Detroit on this day in 1821, the first executions in Michigan after the territory became part of the U.S. In jail, the two men used a piece … Continue reading "1821 : First Public Executions in Michigan"
1881 : Former Governor John Bagley Dies
1881 : Former Governor John Bagley Dies
Dec 27 all-day
On Dec. 27, 1881, Michigan’s 16th Governor, John J. Bagley, died four years after leaving the Governor’s office at just 49 years old.The former Republican Governor is a New York native who came to Michigan … Continue reading "1881 : Former Governor John Bagley Dies"
2022 : Whitmer Kidnap Plot Leader Fox Sentence to Prison
2022 : Whitmer Kidnap Plot Leader Fox Sentence to Prison
Dec 27 all-day
More than two years after his arrest, Adam Fox was sentenced to 16 years in prison for plotting to kidnap Governor Gretchen Whitmer. The government had sought a life sentence Fox, arguing he was part … Continue reading "2022 : Whitmer Kidnap Plot Leader Fox Sentence to Prison"
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1863 : Troy Township Approves Tax to Fund Bonuses for Military Volunteers
1863 : Troy Township Approves Tax to Fund Bonuses for Military Volunteers
Dec 28 all-day
On December 28, 1863, the voters of Troy Township approved a tax to compensate soldiers. The tax paid $100 to each man who volunteered to join the Union military. According to the report from Michigan … Continue reading "1863 : Troy Township Approves Tax to Fund Bonuses for Military Volunteers"
1881 : Inventor Lloyd Groff Copeman Born
1881 : Inventor Lloyd Groff Copeman Born
Dec 28 all-day
Lloyd Groff Copeman (28 December 1881 – 5 July 1956) was a prolific American inventor who devised the first electric stove and the flexible rubber ice cube tray, among other products. Copeman was raised by … Continue reading "1881 : Inventor Lloyd Groff Copeman Born"
1915 : Ypsilanti Boarding Houses Can Set Their Own Rules Governing Gentleman Callers
1915 : Ypsilanti Boarding Houses Can Set Their Own Rules Governing Gentleman Callers
Dec 28 all-day
In 1915, State Attorney General Grant Fellows ruled that the state board of education had no power to regulate private boardinghouses in Ypsilanti where young women who attended the State Normal College resided. The ruling … Continue reading "1915 : Ypsilanti Boarding Houses Can Set Their Own Rules Governing Gentleman Callers"
1952 : Detroit Lions Win NFL Championship
1952 : Detroit Lions Win NFL Championship
Dec 28 all-day
On December 28, 1952, Doak Walker’s 67-yard third-quarter touchdown led the Detroit Lions to a 17-7 win over the Cleveland Browns for the NFL championship. The Lions last previous NFL Championship was in 1935. Source … Continue reading "1952 : Detroit Lions Win NFL Championship"
1960 : Where the Boys Are Premieres
1960 : Where the Boys Are Premieres
Dec 28 all-day
 As spring breakers hit the beaches and slopes in exotic locales today, few if any have any clue that they form part of a cultural phenomenon that was fueled a half century ago by the … Continue reading "1960 : Where the Boys Are Premieres"
1973 : Mayor Coleman Young Sworn In as Mayor of Detroit
1973 : Mayor Coleman Young Sworn In as Mayor of Detroit
Dec 28 all-day
 Not wanting to be occupied on January 1, Mayor Coleman Young was sworn in as Detroit’s first Black Mayor in 1973. Sources : Michigan Every Day. Time Article About Mayor Coleman Young, December 2, 2009.
2006 : President Gerald Ford Dies
2006 : President Gerald Ford Dies
Dec 28 all-day
 Former U.S. President Gerald R. Ford has died at age 93. The 38th president of the United States, Gerald Ford took office when the Watergate scandal forced Richard Nixon from the presidency. He is best … Continue reading "2006 : President Gerald Ford Dies"
2014 : Michigan Citizen Ends Weekly Publication
2014 : Michigan Citizen Ends Weekly Publication
Dec 28 all-day
The Michigan Citizen published its last weekly edition Dec. 28, 2014. We have deep gratitude for the hundreds of contributors over nearly four decades, the tens of thousands of readers and the citizens in our … Continue reading "2014 : Michigan Citizen Ends Weekly Publication"
2018 : Barack Obama Likes Lord Huron Song
2018 : Barack Obama Likes Lord Huron Song
Dec 28 all-day
We always knew former President Barack Obama had good taste (consider, for example, his wife). It’s been a tradition of his in recent Decembers to publish lists of his favorite music, books and movies of … Continue reading "2018 : Barack Obama Likes Lord Huron Song"
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1902 : First Hockey Game Played at Amphidrome, the Home of Professional Hockey
1902 : First Hockey Game Played at Amphidrome, the Home of Professional Hockey
Dec 29 all-day
The first hockey game was played in the Amphidrome arena in Houghton on December 29, 1902, when Portage Lake beat the University of Toronto, 13-2. In 1903-04 the Portage Lake Hockey Club became the first … Continue reading "1902 : First Hockey Game Played at Amphidrome, the Home of Professional Hockey"
1957 : The Curse of Bobby Layne
1957 : The Curse of Bobby Layne
Dec 29 all-day
 The Curse of Bobby Layne from NFL Films On December 29, 1957, the Detroit Lions won their last NFL championship by defeating the Cleveland Browns. Star quarterback Bobby Layne missed the game due to a … Continue reading "1957 : The Curse of Bobby Layne"
2022: Governor Whitmer Kidnap Leader Croft Sentenced to Prison
2022: Governor Whitmer Kidnap Leader Croft Sentenced to Prison
Dec 29 all-day
Barry Croft Jr., a Delaware trucker whom prosecutors labeled the “prime mover” in a violent domestic terrorist plot that planted a bull’s-eye on Michigan’s governor, was sentenced to more than 19 years in prison for … Continue reading "2022: Governor Whitmer Kidnap Leader Croft Sentenced to Prison"
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1933 : Governor William Comstock Celebrates Repeal of Prohibition By Buying The First Bottle of Whiskey Sold
1933 : Governor William Comstock Celebrates Repeal of Prohibition By Buying The First Bottle of Whiskey Sold
Dec 30 all-day
With the repeal of prohibition, Governor William Comstock bought a bottle of Old Taylor, the first bottle of whiskey sold in the state. Sources : Historical Society of Michigan Ken Coleman, “On this day in … Continue reading "1933 : Governor William Comstock Celebrates Repeal of Prohibition By Buying The First Bottle of Whiskey Sold"
1934 : Chuck Westover, a.k.a. Del Shannon, Born in Battle Creek
1934 : Chuck Westover, a.k.a. Del Shannon, Born in Battle Creek
Dec 30 all-day
 Born in Battle Creek but raised in Coopersville near Grand Rapids, Chuck Weeden Westover achieved fame in 1961 with the song “Runaway”, co-written with Max Crook. Boosted by Shannon’s appearance on American Bandstand, the song … Continue reading "1934 : Chuck Westover, a.k.a. Del Shannon, Born in Battle Creek"
1936 : Flint Sit-Down Strike Begins
1936 : Flint Sit-Down Strike Begins
Dec 30 all-day
 On December 30, 1936, Fisher Body workers struck this plant in Flint, Michigan, as the sit-down strikes against General Motors continued. Their primary objective was union recognition. Violence erupted on January 11, 1937, as an … Continue reading "1936 : Flint Sit-Down Strike Begins"
1998: Dwarf Lake Iris Designated Michigan’s Official Wildflower
1998: Dwarf Lake Iris Designated Michigan’s Official Wildflower
Dec 30 all-day
 Michigan State Wildflower: Dwarf Lake Iris In 1996, the Wildflower Association of Michigan sponsored an informal wildflower preference poll in newspapers throughout the state. The Association invited citizens to vote for one of six native … Continue reading "1998: Dwarf Lake Iris Designated Michigan’s Official Wildflower"
2014 : University of Michigan Introduces Jim Harbaugh as New Football Coach
2014 : University of Michigan Introduces Jim Harbaugh as New Football Coach
Dec 30 all-day
 Michigan has told its biggest boosters that a deal for Jim Harbaugh to become its next head coach is done and that a news conference is scheduled for Tuesday, a source close to Michigan told … Continue reading "2014 : University of Michigan Introduces Jim Harbaugh as New Football Coach"
2022: Congressman Fred Upton Retires
2022: Congressman Fred Upton Retires
Dec 30 all-day
U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, may be one of the most affable, easygoing politicians you’ll ever meet but when it comes to enemies, he sure can pick them. Over the years, he has taken … Continue reading "2022: Congressman Fred Upton Retires"
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1862 : Albert Sleeper Born, Future Governor of Michigan
1862 : Albert Sleeper Born, Future Governor of Michigan
Dec 31 all-day
 Albert Sleeper was born on December 31, 1862, in Bradford, Vermont and was educated at the Bradford Academy. In 1884, he moved to Lexington, Michigan, where he was a successful businessman owning several banks and … Continue reading "1862 : Albert Sleeper Born, Future Governor of Michigan"
1862 : Battle of Stones River
1862 : Battle of Stones River
Dec 31 all-day
 On this day, a three-day battle began east of Nashville, Tennessee, one of the bloodiest of the Civil War. 71 Michigan soldiers would lose their lives. Source : Michigan Every Day. For more information, visit … Continue reading "1862 : Battle of Stones River"
1899 : SS Tashmoo Launched, One of the Most Beloved Pleasure Boats of the Early Twentieth Century
1899 : SS Tashmoo Launched, One of the Most Beloved Pleasure Boats of the Early Twentieth Century
Dec 31 all-day
 The 306-foot paddle-wheeler steamship SS Tashmoo was launched Dec. 31, 1899, and was one of the most beloved pleasure boats to cruise the Great Lakes. She was built for the White Star Steamship Co. of … Continue reading "1899 : SS Tashmoo Launched, One of the Most Beloved Pleasure Boats of the Early Twentieth Century"
1956 : John Voelker’s Lucky Day
1956 : John Voelker’s Lucky Day
Dec 31 all-day
 On December 31, 1956 St. Martin’s notified John Voelker that they had accepted Anatomy of a Murder for publication. Coincidentally, Governor G. Mennen Williams telephoned that same day to offer John a seat on the … Continue reading "1956 : John Voelker’s Lucky Day"
1983 : Fred Dakota Opens The Pines, The First Native American Casino in Michigan
1983 : Fred Dakota Opens The Pines, The First Native American Casino in Michigan
Dec 31 all-day
 Fred Dakota Opens the First Native American Casino On the last day of 1983, New Year’s Eve, Fred Dakota was ready to open the doors of The Pines, a casino and bar. Thinking back to … Continue reading "1983 : Fred Dakota Opens The Pines, The First Native American Casino in Michigan"
2014 : Former Michigan Attorney General Frank Kelly Turns 90
2014 : Former Michigan Attorney General Frank Kelly Turns 90
Dec 31 all-day
 He’s not in the news frequently like he once was, but Frank Kelley, who served 37 years as Michigan attorney general and holds the record as the longest-serving attorney general in U.S. history, is still … Continue reading "2014 : Former Michigan Attorney General Frank Kelly Turns 90"
2017: Lake Superior State University Releases Annual List of Banned Words
2017: Lake Superior State University Releases Annual List of Banned Words
Dec 31 all-day
The wordsmiths at Lake Superior State University eschewed “fake news” and released LSSU’s 43rd annual List of Words Banished from the Queen’s English for Mis-use, Over-use and General Uselessness. “We’ve drilled down and unpacked tons … Continue reading "2017: Lake Superior State University Releases Annual List of Banned Words"
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