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1812 : Governor William Hull Becomes Commander of the Army of the Northwest
1812 : Governor William Hull Becomes Commander of the Army of the Northwest
Apr 1 all-day
 Portrait of General William Hull by Rembrandt Peale Governor William Hull became the commander of the Army of the Northwest. His first task was to lead his army from Dayton, Ohio, to Detroit, building Hull’s … Continue reading "1812 : Governor William Hull Becomes Commander of the Army of the Northwest"
1875 : Ice Floe Collapses 5 Bridges in Lansing
1875 : Ice Floe Collapses 5 Bridges in Lansing
Apr 1 all-day
On April 1, 1875, a hard winter left a huge ice floe that collapsed five bridges in Lansing. The trouble started at Mineral Wells Bridge, which was newly constructed at the time. The ice floe … Continue reading "1875 : Ice Floe Collapses 5 Bridges in Lansing"
1906 : First Michigan Yellow-Pages Directory
1906 : First Michigan Yellow-Pages Directory
Apr 1 all-day
 The state’s first yellow-pages directory was issued by the Michigan State Telephone Company on this date in 1906. More odds and ends about old telephone books Sources : Historical Society of Michigan The phone book … Continue reading "1906 : First Michigan Yellow-Pages Directory"
1913 : Michigan Adopts Sterilization Law for Mentally Defectives
1913 : Michigan Adopts Sterilization Law for Mentally Defectives
Apr 1 all-day
One hundred years ago this month, the Michigan Legislature approved Public Act 34, authorizing the sterilization of any “mentally defective person” held in a state institution. Michigan had been the very first state to consider … Continue reading "1913 : Michigan Adopts Sterilization Law for Mentally Defectives"
1943 : Joy Little of Grand Rapids Goes to War
1943 : Joy Little of Grand Rapids Goes to War
Apr 1 all-day
 Twenty-two year old Joy Lillie from Coopersville, Michigan, began her service with the U.S. Army Nurse Corp during WWII on April 1, 1943. She was originally assigned to a hospital ship serving wounded soldiers from … Continue reading "1943 : Joy Little of Grand Rapids Goes to War"
1951 : New Building Started for the International Institute of Metopolitan Detroit
1951 : New Building Started for the International Institute of Metopolitan Detroit
Apr 1 all-day
On April 1, 1951, the cornerstone was laid for the new International Institute at Kirby Avenue and John R. The International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit (IIMD) was founded in Detroit in 1919 by a group … Continue reading "1951 : New Building Started for the International Institute of Metopolitan Detroit"
1963 : Michigan Civil Rights Commission Created
1963 : Michigan Civil Rights Commission Created
Apr 1 all-day
On April 1, 1963, Michigan voters approved a new constitution – the first Constitution in the United States to create a Civil Rights Commission charged with securing equal protection without discrimination. Today, we celebrate that … Continue reading "1963 : Michigan Civil Rights Commission Created"
1963 : Michigan’s Constitution Narrowly Approved
1963 : Michigan’s Constitution Narrowly Approved
Apr 1 all-day
On April 1, 1963, Michigan voters narrowly approved the state’s new constitution, the governing document the state is still run under. After a recount, the “yes” votes won with 50.2 percent of the vote, or … Continue reading "1963 : Michigan’s Constitution Narrowly Approved"
1966 : Ramparts Blows MSU’s Cover Regarding Vietnam
1966 : Ramparts Blows MSU’s Cover Regarding Vietnam
Apr 1 all-day
 How badly will the Larry Nassar wholesale sexual abuse scandal impact Michigan State University’s reputation? Perhaps not that much in the long run according to a recent article by Politico. Eric Scigliano points out that” … Continue reading "1966 : Ramparts Blows MSU’s Cover Regarding Vietnam"
1972 : First Hash Bash Held in Ann Arbor
1972 : First Hash Bash Held in Ann Arbor
Apr 1 all-day
With their usual shouts of “Free the weed!” beneath hand-painted banners and leafy green flags, marijuana users and their pals by the thousands are set to gather Saturday in Ann Arbor for the 47th annual … Continue reading "1972 : First Hash Bash Held in Ann Arbor"
1978 : American Museum of Magic Founded in Marshall, Michigan
1978 : American Museum of Magic Founded in Marshall, Michigan
Apr 1 all-day
 Founded on April 1, 1978, the American Museum of Magic in Marshall is the largest magic museum in the United States open to the public. Attractions spawned from the obsession of one man (or woman) … Continue reading "1978 : American Museum of Magic Founded in Marshall, Michigan"
2019: Dan Robbins, Creator of Paint-by-Numbers Dies
2019: Dan Robbins, Creator of Paint-by-Numbers Dies
Apr 1 all-day
 Who is the most exhibited artist in the world? The work of paint by number designer Dan Robbins has been displayed on more walls than that of any other artist. This was true in the … Continue reading "2019: Dan Robbins, Creator of Paint-by-Numbers Dies"
2023 : Hash Bash Held at University of Michigan
2023 : Hash Bash Held at University of Michigan
Apr 1 all-day
The cloudy skies and rainy weather didn’t prevent thousands of marijuana lovers from gathering in Ann Arbor on Saturday to light a few joints and listen to activists speak about a variety of cannabis topics. … Continue reading "2023 : Hash Bash Held at University of Michigan"
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1881 : J. L. Hudson’s Haberdashery Opens in Detroit, Will Evolve Into Hudson’s Department Store
1881 : J. L. Hudson’s Haberdashery Opens in Detroit, Will Evolve Into Hudson’s Department Store
Apr 2 all-day
The forerunner of Hudson’s, which would become a storied Detroit retailer, opened April 2, 1881. J. L. Hudson’s haberdashery was at the old Detroit Opera House. It opened as a department store a decade later … Continue reading "1881 : J. L. Hudson’s Haberdashery Opens in Detroit, Will Evolve Into Hudson’s Department Store"
1884 : First Self-Propelled Automobile in Michigan
1884 : First Self-Propelled Automobile in Michigan
Apr 2 all-day
If you’re driving around and you come across this Michigan historical marker, you may think it’s honoring the old 1950’s sci-fi film, “The Thing”….but it’s far from it. “The Thing” was the first self-propelled vehicle in … Continue reading "1884 : First Self-Propelled Automobile in Michigan"
1912 : MacGregor Murder Trial Grips Ubly, Michigan
1912 : MacGregor Murder Trial Grips Ubly, Michigan
Apr 2 all-day
 Was Dr. Robert MacGregor of Ubly, Michigan a murderer? A poisoner? A serial killer? The residents in the small Michigan Thumb town of Ubly are still split on this decision, and have been ever since … Continue reading "1912 : MacGregor Murder Trial Grips Ubly, Michigan"
1951 : Life Features Ferry Morse Seed Company of Detroit
1951 : Life Features Ferry Morse Seed Company of Detroit
Apr 2 all-day
 Detroit was — once, and briefly — the world-capital of seed production, as the headquarters of the D.M. Ferry Seed Co., founded by Dexter Mason Ferry in 1856. Today, you can find Ferry-Morse seed packets on the seasonal shelves at … Continue reading "1951 : Life Features Ferry Morse Seed Company of Detroit"
1954 : Michigan State College Can Change Name to Michigan State University
1954 : Michigan State College Can Change Name to Michigan State University
Apr 2 all-day
On April 2, 1954, the Detroit Free Press reported that Michigan Attorney General Thomas Kavanagh ruled that there was no state constitutional provision prohibiting Michigan State College from changing its name to Michigan State University. … Continue reading "1954 : Michigan State College Can Change Name to Michigan State University"
1966 : Coho Salmon Released in Platte River
1966 : Coho Salmon Released in Platte River
Apr 2 all-day
 The first of 850,000 coho salmon, imported from the West Coast, were released in the Platte River in Benzie County, aimed at creating a new sport fishery in Lake Michigan. The Rest of the Story … Continue reading "1966 : Coho Salmon Released in Platte River"
1977 : First Michigan Anti-Smoking Law?
1977 : First Michigan Anti-Smoking Law?
Apr 2 all-day
On April 2, 1977, a new anti-smoking law banned smoking in grocery stores and required no-smoking areas in restaurants. Source : Historical Society of Michigan
1992 : World’s Largest Fungus Resides in Michigan
1992 : World’s Largest Fungus Resides in Michigan
Apr 2 all-day
 The Non-mycological world first became aware that one of Earth’s largest and oldest organisms was living in Michigan on this date in 1992. In the early 1990’s scientists discovered a giant fungus growing outside of … Continue reading "1992 : World’s Largest Fungus Resides in Michigan"
2014 : President Obama Visits Ann Arbor to Pitch Raising Minimum Wage
2014 : President Obama Visits Ann Arbor to Pitch Raising Minimum Wage
Apr 2 all-day
After eating lunch at Zimmerman’s in Ann Arbor, President Obama gave a speech at the University of Michigan urging people to get behind his proposal to raise the minimum wage to $10.10 a hour, from … Continue reading "2014 : President Obama Visits Ann Arbor to Pitch Raising Minimum Wage"
2020 : Marriage Ceremonies No Longer Restricted to Ministers
2020 : Marriage Ceremonies No Longer Restricted to Ministers
Apr 2 all-day
The state now allows secular people to perform and legalize marriages in Michigan as opposed to reserving the right for religious ministers. The Michigan Attorney General reversed its stance against the issue after a lawsuit … Continue reading "2020 : Marriage Ceremonies No Longer Restricted to Ministers"
2020: Michigan Ranks 3rd In Terms of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths
2020: Michigan Ranks 3rd In Terms of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths
Apr 2 all-day
Just over three weeks after Michigan’s first confirmed case of the novel coronavirus, the state has over 10,000 confirmed cases of the COVID-19 disease caused by the virus. The state reported 1,457 new confirmed COVID-19 cases and 80 more people have died from … Continue reading "2020: Michigan Ranks 3rd In Terms of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths"
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1782 : Alexander Macomb Born, Victor of Battle of Plattsburg
1782 : Alexander Macomb Born, Victor of Battle of Plattsburg
Apr 3 all-day
 Painting image shared by HistoricDetroit.org In 1818 Territorial Governor Lewis Cass proclaimed that the third Michigan county to receive a name would be called Macomb. At that time the young General was Commander of the … Continue reading "1782 : Alexander Macomb Born, Victor of Battle of Plattsburg"
1838 : Jackson State Prison Construction Begins
1838 : Jackson State Prison Construction Begins
Apr 3 all-day
 On April 3, 1838, construction began on Michigan’s first state prison in Jackson. At one time, it was the largest walled prison in the world and still remains one of the biggest. The legislature passed … Continue reading "1838 : Jackson State Prison Construction Begins"
1848 : Michigan, Michigan Renamed Lansing, Michigan
1848 : Michigan, Michigan Renamed Lansing, Michigan
Apr 3 all-day
After about a year of letters being addressed to Michigan, Michigan, the state capitol’s name was changed to Lansing. Sources : Michigan History, January/February 2013. Lansing, Michigan wikipedia entry For more information about Lansing, Michigan’s … Continue reading "1848 : Michigan, Michigan Renamed Lansing, Michigan"
1869 : Legislature Passes Free Statewide School Supported by Local Taxes and State Aid
1869 : Legislature Passes Free Statewide School Supported by Local Taxes and State Aid
Apr 3 all-day
On April 3, 1869, the Legislature established a free statewide school system supported by local taxes and state aid. Prior to the act, local governments had issued rate bills (tuition charges) to the parents of … Continue reading "1869 : Legislature Passes Free Statewide School Supported by Local Taxes and State Aid"
1903 : Israelite House of David Settles in Benton Harbor
1903 : Israelite House of David Settles in Benton Harbor
Apr 3 all-day
 On April 3, 1903, Benjamin Purnell, an itinerate preacher, along with his wife Mary, created the Israelite House of David, a religious colony, in Benton Harbor, Michigan, with land donated by devout followers. Within a … Continue reading "1903 : Israelite House of David Settles in Benton Harbor"
1933 : Michigan Approves 21st Amendment, Repealing Prohibition
1933 : Michigan Approves 21st Amendment, Repealing Prohibition
Apr 3 all-day
 On April 3, 1933, Michigan became the first state to vote for a repeal of federal Prohibition. During the 1920s, Michigan was a battleground for bootleggers who smuggled liquor into Michigan from Canada. With the … Continue reading "1933 : Michigan Approves 21st Amendment, Repealing Prohibition"
1940 : Isle Royale National Park Established
1940 : Isle Royale National Park Established
Apr 3 all-day
 It’s the 75th birthday of Isle Royale National Park. It was established on April 3, 1940, and is Michigan’s only National Park. For more information see Isle Royale National Park, National Geographic Traveler. Isle Royale … Continue reading "1940 : Isle Royale National Park Established"
1956 : Northwest Grand Rapids Area Battered by Deadly Tornado
1956 : Northwest Grand Rapids Area Battered by Deadly Tornado
Apr 3 all-day
A deadly F5 tornado that packed winds of up to 300 mph struck northwest Grand Rapids, cutting a path from Hudsonville to Comstock Park. More than 330 injuries were reported, in addition to 17 … Continue reading "1956 : Northwest Grand Rapids Area Battered by Deadly Tornado"
1975 : Snowstorm Shuts Down MSU for 2nd Time
1975 : Snowstorm Shuts Down MSU for 2nd Time
Apr 3 all-day
A freak snowstorm on April 3-4, 1975 dumped 15 inches of wet snow, making roads and sidewalks impassable. Saginaw reported 14 inches; Flint reported 17 inches. Many people weren’t prepared for that kind of … Continue reading "1975 : Snowstorm Shuts Down MSU for 2nd Time"
1996 : Oldsmobile Park Opens in Lansing
1996 : Oldsmobile Park Opens in Lansing
Apr 3 all-day
 Lansing’s minor league ballpark – Oldsmobile Park – made its debut on April 3, 1996, with a college game between Michigan State University and the University of Michigan. Two days later, with the temperature around … Continue reading "1996 : Oldsmobile Park Opens in Lansing"
2000 : Matteen Cleaves Leads MSU to Second National Basketball Title
2000 : Matteen Cleaves Leads MSU to Second National Basketball Title
Apr 3 all-day
 Michigan State senior Mateen Cleaves limped his way to the Most Outstanding Player (MOP) of the 2000 NCAA Tournament. Cleaves sprained his ankle with 16:18 to play in the 2nd half, and this was after … Continue reading "2000 : Matteen Cleaves Leads MSU to Second National Basketball Title"
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1825 : John R. Williams Becomes Detroit’s First Mayor
1825 : John R. Williams Becomes Detroit’s First Mayor
Apr 4 all-day
 J ohn R. Williams became Detroit’s first mayor on April 4, 1825. The Detroit native and slave owner won with 102 votes, compared with the 11 votes cast for all his opponents together. Williams, a … Continue reading "1825 : John R. Williams Becomes Detroit’s First Mayor"
1846 : Madeleine LaFramboise Dies on Mackinac Island
1846 : Madeleine LaFramboise Dies on Mackinac Island
Apr 4 all-day
 Daughter of a French-Canadian Fur trader and an Ottawa mother, Madeleine was only 3 months old when her father died in 1780. She was raised in an Ottawa village on the Grand River among her … Continue reading "1846 : Madeleine LaFramboise Dies on Mackinac Island"
1849 : Old Sam, Famous Michigan Civil War Horse, Born
1849 : Old Sam, Famous Michigan Civil War Horse, Born
Apr 4 all-day
Old Sam was born April 4th, 1849 at the Abraham C. Fisk Breeding Stables in Coldwater Michigan. Before the Civil War, Old Sam was used to pull a street car back and forth from the … Continue reading "1849 : Old Sam, Famous Michigan Civil War Horse, Born"
1871 : First Michigan Woman Votes in General Election
1871 : First Michigan Woman Votes in General Election
Apr 4 all-day
Nannette Gardner became the first Michigan woman to vote in a general election when she cast her ballot on April 4, 1871, in Detroit. The wealthy widow convinced city election officials that she should be … Continue reading "1871 : First Michigan Woman Votes in General Election"
1910 : Ingham County, Along with 35 other Michigan Counties, Vote for Prohibition
1910 : Ingham County, Along with 35 other Michigan Counties, Vote for Prohibition
Apr 4 all-day
 On April 4, 1910, Michigan held a major election. Ingham was one of thirty-six Michigan counties to include a local prohibition option on the ballot. It passed. Ingham then became a “dry county,” where alcoholic … Continue reading "1910 : Ingham County, Along with 35 other Michigan Counties, Vote for Prohibition"
1943 : Detroit Pilot Sinks Japanese Combat Ship
1943 : Detroit Pilot Sinks Japanese Combat Ship
Apr 4 all-day
On April 4, 1943, the Detroit Free Press ran a feature titled “Michigan Fliers Write Saga of Heroism in Sky” that detailed the actions of Lt. Charles J. Stevens, of Detroit, who two days after … Continue reading "1943 : Detroit Pilot Sinks Japanese Combat Ship"
1971 : Gordie Howe Plays Last Game for Red Wings
1971 : Gordie Howe Plays Last Game for Red Wings
Apr 4 all-day
 On April 4, 1971, one of professional hockey’s most prolific scorers, Gordie Howe, played his last game for the Detroit Red Wings. Howe was born in Floral, Saskatchewan, in 1928. He joined the Red Wings … Continue reading "1971 : Gordie Howe Plays Last Game for Red Wings"
1979 : A Flight to Remember
1979 : A Flight to Remember
Apr 4 all-day
On April 4, 1979, a TWA Boeing 727 flying from New York City to the Twin Cities, carrying 80 passengers at 39,000 feet over Flint, suddenly swerved to the right, completed a 360-degree barrel … Continue reading "1979 : A Flight to Remember"
2013 : Detroit Lion Jason Hanson Retires After 21 Seasons
2013 : Detroit Lion Jason Hanson Retires After 21 Seasons
Apr 4 all-day
Jason Hanson played more games for the Detroit Lions than any player has ever played for any single NFL team, and the Lions announced today, after Hanson announced his retirement, that Hanson will remain an … Continue reading "2013 : Detroit Lion Jason Hanson Retires After 21 Seasons"
2014 : Bo Schembechler Statue Unveiled on Michigan Campus
2014 : Bo Schembechler Statue Unveiled on Michigan Campus
Apr 4 all-day
 Those who best knew Bo Schembechler know he would probably have grumbled about the life-size statue of him unveiled Friday night just outside the doors of newly renovated Schembechler Hall. The statue of Michigan’s legendary … Continue reading "2014 : Bo Schembechler Statue Unveiled on Michigan Campus"
2014 : Wayne’s State’s 12th President Inaugerated
2014 : Wayne’s State’s 12th President Inaugerated
Apr 4 all-day
 Photo by Chris Ehrmann/Crain’s Detroit Business Wayne State University President M. Roy Wilson chats during a Detroit Homecoming 2016 reception on Wednesday, the first day of the third annual event, which kicked off at the … Continue reading "2014 : Wayne’s State’s 12th President Inaugerated"
2014: Freddie Ford, the First C-3PO?
2014: Freddie Ford, the First C-3PO?
Apr 4 all-day
 At nine feet tall, more than 800 pounds and unable to move, this dude wasn’t quite as nimble as C-3PO, nor as small. But for several years throughout the late 1960s and early ’70s, … Continue reading "2014: Freddie Ford, the First C-3PO?"
2016: MSU’s Tom Izzo voted into Basketball Hall of Fame
2016: MSU’s Tom Izzo voted into Basketball Hall of Fame
Apr 4 all-day
 Michigan State coach Tom Izzo is officially a Hall of Famer. Izzo was announced today as part of the 2016 Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame class, and he will be enshrined Sept. 9 at … Continue reading "2016: MSU’s Tom Izzo voted into Basketball Hall of Fame"
2019 : Detroit Tigers Opening Day (Date Varies)
2019 : Detroit Tigers Opening Day (Date Varies)
Apr 4 all-day
The street musicians, dancers, scalpers, beer tents and tailgaters surrounded Comerica Park once again on opening day in 2019. The Detroit Tigers and fans were happy since they beat the Kansas City Royals 5-4. … Continue reading "2019 : Detroit Tigers Opening Day (Date Varies)"
2020 : Coping With Coronavirus Outbreak
2020 : Coping With Coronavirus Outbreak
Apr 4 all-day
 Dan Stuglik and Amy Simonson are photographed Tuesday, March 31, 2020 in Pokagon, Mich. The two will be joined by more than 100 cardboard cutouts of family and friends when they are married this Saturday … Continue reading "2020 : Coping With Coronavirus Outbreak"
2021 : Detroit Tiger Akil Baddoo Hits Homer on First Pitch
2021 : Detroit Tiger Akil Baddoo Hits Homer on First Pitch
Apr 4 all-day
On April 4, 2021, Tigers outfielder Akil Baddoo hit his first pitch in an MLB game out of the park for a homer. Although the number of fans in the stadium were limited because of … Continue reading "2021 : Detroit Tiger Akil Baddoo Hits Homer on First Pitch"
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1778 : Daniel Boone is brought to Detroit As a Prisoner
1778 : Daniel Boone is brought to Detroit As a Prisoner
Apr 5 all-day
 This 1820 painting by Chester Harding is the only portrait of Daniel Boone made during his lifetime. On April 5, 1778, Daniel Boone arrived at Detroit as a prisoner. During the American Revolution, Boone’s settlement … Continue reading "1778 : Daniel Boone is brought to Detroit As a Prisoner"
1845: Immigrants Depart Germany On Their Way To Found Frankenmuth
1845: Immigrants Depart Germany On Their Way To Found Frankenmuth
Apr 5 all-day
The emigrants departed from Nuernberg on April 5, 1845 and traveled by foot, wagons, and trains to Bremerhafen, where they bought the provisions for their voyage. On April 20 they boarded the CAROLINE, where four … Continue reading "1845: Immigrants Depart Germany On Their Way To Found Frankenmuth"
1882 : Battle of Manton
1882 : Battle of Manton
Apr 5 all-day
April 4-6, 1882. Cadillac’s decade-long struggle for the county seat came to a head on April 4, 1882, when ballots were cast throughout the county to determine whether the coveted prize should be moved from … Continue reading "1882 : Battle of Manton"
1920 : Detroit Voters Endorse Municipally-Owned Street Railway System
1920 : Detroit Voters Endorse Municipally-Owned Street Railway System
Apr 5 all-day
On April 5, 1920, Detroit voters approved Mayor James Couzens’ $15 million bond issue proposal to build and operate a (separate from the existing Detroit United Railway) municipally-owned street railway system. Source : Detroit Historical … Continue reading "1920 : Detroit Voters Endorse Municipally-Owned Street Railway System"
1947 : Flint Experiences Second Worst Natural Disaster
1947 : Flint Experiences Second Worst Natural Disaster
Apr 5 all-day
The flood of 1947 ranks No. 2 for the worst natural disasters in Flint history, topped only by the deadly Beecher tornado in 1953. Today, Riverbank Park looks the way it does because of the … Continue reading "1947 : Flint Experiences Second Worst Natural Disaster"
1993: Michigan Loses to North Carolina in NCAA Basketball Final
1993: Michigan Loses to North Carolina in NCAA Basketball Final
Apr 5 all-day
 The Fab Five reached the NCAA championship game as freshmen on April 6, 1992 and again as sophomores on April 5, 1993. They lost to Duke 71–51 in the 1992 title game and lost … Continue reading "1993: Michigan Loses to North Carolina in NCAA Basketball Final"
2018: Hazel Park Raceway Closes After 69 Years
2018: Hazel Park Raceway Closes After 69 Years
Apr 5 all-day
The long, twilight struggle for thoroughbred racing in Michigan finally may have ended. Like a lot of owners and breeders and others when they heard Thursday that the 69-year-old Hazel Park Raceway closed, Lisa Campbell … Continue reading "2018: Hazel Park Raceway Closes After 69 Years"
2023 : Governor Whitmer Repeals 1931 Abortion Ban
2023 : Governor Whitmer Repeals 1931 Abortion Ban
Apr 5 all-day
 Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed bipartisan legislation repealing the state’s 1931 law banning abortion without exceptions for rape or incest and criminalizing nurses and doctors for doing their jobs. Last year, Michiganders turned out in … Continue reading "2023 : Governor Whitmer Repeals 1931 Abortion Ban"
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1862 : First Michigan Light Artillery, Battery B, Sees Action at Shiloh, Tennessee
1862 : First Michigan Light Artillery, Battery B, Sees Action at Shiloh, Tennessee
Apr 6 all-day
 April 6-7, 2012 marks the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Shiloh, fought in southwestern Tennessee. Participants included the men of Battery B, First Michigan Light Artillery. Larry R. Houghton told their story in Michigan … Continue reading "1862 : First Michigan Light Artillery, Battery B, Sees Action at Shiloh, Tennessee"
1862 : Private George Sidman Receives Congressional Medal of Honor, Michigan’s Youngest Recipient
1862 : Private George Sidman Receives Congressional Medal of Honor, Michigan’s Youngest Recipient
Apr 6 all-day
Private George Sidman, a drummer boy from Owosso, received the Congressional Medal of Honor for heroism displayed on a Civil War battlefield in June 1862. He was the youngest man in the state to receive … Continue reading "1862 : Private George Sidman Receives Congressional Medal of Honor, Michigan’s Youngest Recipient"
1917 : War Fever Reflected in Detroit Free Press
1917 : War Fever Reflected in Detroit Free Press
Apr 6 all-day
On the day the U.S. declared war on Germany during World War I, the Detroit Free Press carried the following headline: ASK SCHOOL AID FOR WAR CROPS: M. A. C. Head and State Market Director … Continue reading "1917 : War Fever Reflected in Detroit Free Press"
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1928 : Police Radio Dispatches Launched in Detroit
1928 : Police Radio Dispatches Launched in Detroit
Apr 7 all-day
 The Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (APCO), IEEE and the American Radio Relay League marked the 90th anniversary of the world’s first police radio system on Saturday, April 7 on Detroit’s Belle Isle State … Continue reading "1928 : Police Radio Dispatches Launched in Detroit"
1939 : Francis Ford Coppola Born at Henry Ford Hospital
1939 : Francis Ford Coppola Born at Henry Ford Hospital
Apr 7 all-day
 Movie director Francis Ford Coppola received his middle name in honor of Henry Ford, not only because he was born in the Henry Ford Hospital but because of his musician-father’s association with the automobile manufacturer. … Continue reading "1939 : Francis Ford Coppola Born at Henry Ford Hospital"
1947 : Henry Ford Dies at his Dearborn Estate
1947 : Henry Ford Dies at his Dearborn Estate
Apr 7 all-day
On April 9, 1947 approximately 5,000 people passed his coffin per hour, which was on display at Greenfield Village. Only 600 could get inside St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral in Detroit for his funeral, but … Continue reading "1947 : Henry Ford Dies at his Dearborn Estate"
2005 : First Public Fairy Door Appears in Ann Arbor
2005 : First Public Fairy Door Appears in Ann Arbor
Apr 7 all-day
 The Fairy Doors of Ann Arbor are a series of small doors that are a type of installation art found in the city of Ann Arbor in the U.S. state of Michigan. The first one … Continue reading "2005 : First Public Fairy Door Appears in Ann Arbor"
2012 : Mike Wallace, Famous Journalist, Dies
2012 : Mike Wallace, Famous Journalist, Dies
Apr 7 all-day
 Mike Wallace, the longtime CBS newsman who died Saturday at age 93, kick-started his lengthy broadcast career at WOOD Radio in Grand Rapids, according to the station and multiple media reports. Wallace, who died Saturday … Continue reading "2012 : Mike Wallace, Famous Journalist, Dies"
2018 : International Beaver Day
2018 : International Beaver Day
Apr 7 all-day
 On this International Beaver Day, April 7, 2018, take a moment to marvel at the industrious critter of toothy fame, which you may not realize is actually responsible for some of Michigan’s oldest surviving infrastructure. … Continue reading "2018 : International Beaver Day"
2019 : One Shining Moment Written by Pontiac Native
2019 : One Shining Moment Written by Pontiac Native
Apr 7 all-day
What is perhaps the greatest sports song of all time came about thanks to a waitress, a napkin, and Larry Bird. And the writer is a Michigan native and basketball fan who supports both the … Continue reading "2019 : One Shining Moment Written by Pontiac Native"
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1842: Elizabeth Bacon Born, Future Wife of General George Armstrong Custer
1842: Elizabeth Bacon Born, Future Wife of General George Armstrong Custer
Apr 8 all-day
 Elizabeth Bacon Custer, a significant chronicler of the West and the wife of George Armstrong Custer, was born in Monroe, Michigan on April 8, 1842. Elizabeth Custer is best known today for her decades-long effort … Continue reading "1842: Elizabeth Bacon Born, Future Wife of General George Armstrong Custer"
1865 : General William Birney & His Black Troops Corner Robert E. Lee At Appomattox
1865 : General William Birney & His Black Troops Corner Robert E. Lee At Appomattox
Apr 8 all-day
David and William Birney — sons of the Bay City abolitionist — were major generals, recruiting and leading colored troops. And James G. Birney IV, grandson, enlisted in Bay City and rode with Gen. Custer … Continue reading "1865 : General William Birney & His Black Troops Corner Robert E. Lee At Appomattox"
1871 : Grand Ledge Incorporates
1871 : Grand Ledge Incorporates
Apr 8 all-day
On April 8, 1871, Grand Ledge incorporated and immediately created a plan to make itself a resort destination. The resort business began after John Burtch launched a steamer in the Grand River for the purpose … Continue reading "1871 : Grand Ledge Incorporates"
1907 : Rachel Andresen Born, Founder of Youth for Understanding
1907 : Rachel Andresen Born, Founder of Youth for Understanding
Apr 8 all-day
Student exchange program pioneer Rachel J. Andresen was born April 8, 1907 in Deerfield, Michigan. At the age of 16 she graduated at the top of her class and went on to receive her Bachelor … Continue reading "1907 : Rachel Andresen Born, Founder of Youth for Understanding"
1956: Last Detroit Streetcar Parked
1956: Last Detroit Streetcar Parked
Apr 8 all-day
On April 8, 1956, Detroit held a parade — a funeral procession more like it — to mark the death of the city’s streetcars. Late that afternoon, the last streetcar in the procession, car No. … Continue reading "1956: Last Detroit Streetcar Parked"
1957 : Lansing Board of Education Endorses Establishment of Lansing Community College
1957 : Lansing Board of Education Endorses Establishment of Lansing Community College
Apr 8 all-day
On April 8, 1957, the Lansing Board of Education adopted the following resolution: “We, the Lansing Board of Education, resolve to establish a community college and technical institute in the City of Lansing, Michigan ….” … Continue reading "1957 : Lansing Board of Education Endorses Establishment of Lansing Community College"
1968 : East Lansing Passes Ordinance Guaranteeing Fair Housing
1968 : East Lansing Passes Ordinance Guaranteeing Fair Housing
Apr 8 all-day
t was nearly 50 years ago that blacks were forbidden from owning property in East Lansing, home of MSU. It’s hard to believe a city heralded for being the first community in the nation to … Continue reading "1968 : East Lansing Passes Ordinance Guaranteeing Fair Housing"
2014 : Lacy Holsworth Dies, Forever Linked with 2013-14 Spartan Basketball Team
2014 : Lacy Holsworth Dies, Forever Linked with 2013-14 Spartan Basketball Team
Apr 8 all-day
 Lacey Holsworth, the eight-year-old girl who was battling cancer and was a special friend of MSU basketball center Adreian Payne, died on April 8. An Instagram post sent out by her Twitter account, @adorablelacey, … Continue reading "2014 : Lacy Holsworth Dies, Forever Linked with 2013-14 Spartan Basketball Team"
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1865 : Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia Surrenders to Two Michigan Regiments
1865 : Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia Surrenders to Two Michigan Regiments
Apr 9 all-day
 On April 9, 1865, Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia surrendered Confederate arms and battle flags to two Michigan Regiments. Approximately 90,000 Michigan men had fought in the Civil War and 14,000 died. Source: … Continue reading "1865 : Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia Surrenders to Two Michigan Regiments"
1871 : Alpena Business District Burns
1871 : Alpena Business District Burns
Apr 9 all-day
On April 9, 1871, the most disastrous fire Alpena had seen destroyed the business district of the city. More than 100 residents were left homeless, and Alpena was left without a place for public entertainment … Continue reading "1871 : Alpena Business District Burns"
1872 : Detroit’s Soldiers and Sailors Monument Unveiled
1872 : Detroit’s Soldiers and Sailors Monument Unveiled
Apr 9 all-day
 Perhaps no other area of Detroit has changed more often and more drastically over the years than Campus Martius, the city center. Over the years, Old City Hall, the Majestic Building, the Pontchartrain Hotel, the … Continue reading "1872 : Detroit’s Soldiers and Sailors Monument Unveiled"
1877 : Hughie Cannon Born, Ragtime Pianist
1877 : Hughie Cannon Born, Ragtime Pianist
Apr 9 all-day
 Hugo (Hughie) Cannon was born in Detroit, Michigan, to actors John S. Cannon and May Brown on April 9, 1877, some seven months after their Illinois marriage. Beginning around 1901, Cannon’s story was closely tied … Continue reading "1877 : Hughie Cannon Born, Ragtime Pianist"
1895 : Page Fence Giants, Early Black Baseball Squad from Adrian, Michigan, Plays First Game
1895 : Page Fence Giants, Early Black Baseball Squad from Adrian, Michigan, Plays First Game
Apr 9 all-day
 Before the creation of the first Negro National League (NNL) in 1920, many professional and semi-professional African American teams took to the ball field, giving hundreds of men the chance to earn their livelihood by … Continue reading "1895 : Page Fence Giants, Early Black Baseball Squad from Adrian, Michigan, Plays First Game"
1912 : Detroit Aldermen Determined to Put Bad Bars Out of Business
1912 : Detroit Aldermen Determined to Put Bad Bars Out of Business
Apr 9 all-day
According to the Warren-Cramlon Law of 1909, no city should have more than 1 bar per 500 residents. According to the latest census, Detroit should have no more than 1000 bar rooms, but in fact … Continue reading "1912 : Detroit Aldermen Determined to Put Bad Bars Out of Business"
1948 : Michigan Legislature Worried About Communists at MSC
1948 : Michigan Legislature Worried About Communists at MSC
Apr 9 all-day
On April 9, 1948, Michigan State College President John Hannah announced that no groups or individuals on the campus are admitting that they are Communists. Hannah and S. E. Crowe, dean of students, were subpoenaed … Continue reading "1948 : Michigan Legislature Worried About Communists at MSC"
2017 : Red Wings Host Last Game at the Joe Louis Arena
2017 : Red Wings Host Last Game at the Joe Louis Arena
Apr 9 all-day
The Red Wings closed out its 38-year residency at Joe Louis Arena with a 4-1 victory over the New Jersey Devils in front of 20,027 raucous fans, who hurled a reported 35 octopuses on the … Continue reading "2017 : Red Wings Host Last Game at the Joe Louis Arena"
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1882 : Cora Reynolds Anderson Born, Trailblazer
1882 : Cora Reynolds Anderson Born, Trailblazer
Apr 10 all-day
 Cora Reynolds Anderson, born on April 10, 1882, was the first woman elected to the Michigan House of Representatives, serving one term from 1925 to 1926. She is also believed to be the only Native … Continue reading "1882 : Cora Reynolds Anderson Born, Trailblazer"
1882 : Famous Female Highwheeler Bicyclist Visits Detroit
1882 : Famous Female Highwheeler Bicyclist Visits Detroit
Apr 10 all-day
 Detroit, April 10-15, 1882 Elsa Von Blumen Aboard a Highwheeler. Sometimes called a “Bone Shaker”, “Velocipede”, “Penny Farthing”, and “Ordinary”. In the late 1870s women’s bicycle racing was developing into a popular spectator sport. The … Continue reading "1882 : Famous Female Highwheeler Bicyclist Visits Detroit"
1897 : Airship Mania Breaks Out in Michigan
1897 : Airship Mania Breaks Out in Michigan
Apr 10 all-day
Back in 1896-1987, the country was besieged with weird objects in the sky, that the media dubbed “airships.” These sightings began in California, and from there spread across the country until it hit Michigan. On … Continue reading "1897 : Airship Mania Breaks Out in Michigan"
1915 : Harry Morgan Born, Actor
1915 : Harry Morgan Born, Actor
Apr 10 – Apr 11 all-day
 Harry Morgan was born on April 10, 1915 in Detroit as Harry Bratsberg (some sites spell it as ‘Bratsburg’). Not long afterward, his family moved to Muskegon, where Harry spent his childhood and teen years. … Continue reading "1915 : Harry Morgan Born, Actor"
1965 : DeZwaan Windmill Dedicated in Holland
1965 : DeZwaan Windmill Dedicated in Holland
Apr 10 all-day
 Every Holland schoolchild knows about DeZwaan, the 200-and-some-year-old Dutch windmill dismantled and reassembled in Holland in 1965. However, the story you’ve heard is just the beginning. “That story is much more fascinating, complicated and … Continue reading "1965 : DeZwaan Windmill Dedicated in Holland"
1989 : Original Sparty Outfit Resides in MSU Museum
1989 : Original Sparty Outfit Resides in MSU Museum
Apr 10 all-day
 Michigan State University Museum has this original Sparty costume in its collections. It’s very popular during collection tours. Source : MSU Archives Tweet, April 10, 2019
2016 : Rev. Nicholas Hood Sr. Dies, Detroit Civil Rights Activist
2016 : Rev. Nicholas Hood Sr. Dies, Detroit Civil Rights Activist
Apr 10 all-day
Political leaders representing the City of Detroit, the State of Michigan and the halls of Congress reflected Monday on the life and contributions of the Rev. Nicholas Hood Sr., who served the Detroit community in the political and … Continue reading "2016 : Rev. Nicholas Hood Sr. Dies, Detroit Civil Rights Activist"
2017: Pistons Host Last Game at the Palace of Auburn Hills
2017: Pistons Host Last Game at the Palace of Auburn Hills
Apr 10 all-day
April 10, 2017 : For the second night in a row, metro Detroit will bid farewell to a sports arena. On Sunday, it was the Detroit Red Wings playing their final game at Joe Louis … Continue reading "2017: Pistons Host Last Game at the Palace of Auburn Hills"
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1843 : James Vernor, Sr. Born, Michigan Pharmacist No. 1 and Creator of Vernors Ginger Ale
1843 : James Vernor, Sr. Born, Michigan Pharmacist No. 1 and Creator of Vernors Ginger Ale
Apr 11 all-day
 James Vernor, Sr. was an American pharmacist, druggist, and American Civil War Lieutenant who became famous for the invention of Vernor’s Ginger Ale. Born on April 11, 1843 in Albany, New York, Vernor moved to … Continue reading "1843 : James Vernor, Sr. Born, Michigan Pharmacist No. 1 and Creator of Vernors Ginger Ale"
1884 : Brown Trout Introduced In Lake County
1884 : Brown Trout Introduced In Lake County
Apr 11 all-day
On April 11, 1884 the first effort in the country to introduce brown trout took place in Lake County. The 4,900 fry came from Germany, and took hold in Michigan’s waters. Source: Michigan Every Day
1888 : Henry Ford Marries Clara Jane Bryant
1888 : Henry Ford Marries Clara Jane Bryant
Apr 11 all-day
 On this day in 1888, 24-year-old Henry Ford marries Clara Jane Bryant on her 22nd birthday at her parent’s home in Greenfield Township, Michigan. Clara Ford would prove to be a big supporter of her … Continue reading "1888 : Henry Ford Marries Clara Jane Bryant"
1936 : Red Wings Win Their First Stanley Cup
1936 : Red Wings Win Their First Stanley Cup
Apr 11 all-day
On 11, 1936, the Detroit Red Wings defeated Toronto and won their first Stanley Cup. A huge crowd gathered at Michigan Central Station to welcome the team home from Toronto the day after it won … Continue reading "1936 : Red Wings Win Their First Stanley Cup"
1943 : Detroit March To End Jim Crow In Michigan
1943 : Detroit March To End Jim Crow In Michigan
Apr 11 all-day
 The World War Two era saw some of the largest civil rights protests in Michigan history focused on ending discrimination in area hiring and segregation in housing, notably at Willow Run. Here, Detroit demonstrators called … Continue reading "1943 : Detroit March To End Jim Crow In Michigan"
1965 : Palm Sunday Tornados Kill 53 in Michigan
1965 : Palm Sunday Tornados Kill 53 in Michigan
Apr 11 all-day
The tornado outbreak on Palm Sunday 1965 was the deadliest in Michigan’s recorded history. The series of storms April 11 killed 53 people and injured at least 100 more, according to the National Weather Service. … Continue reading "1965 : Palm Sunday Tornados Kill 53 in Michigan"
2000 : First Home Opener at Comerica Park
2000 : First Home Opener at Comerica Park
Apr 11 all-day
On April 11, 2000, the first home opener at Comerica Park took place, with the Tigers defeating the Seattle Mariners 5-2 before a crowd of 39,168 that braved sleet and temperatures in the 30s to … Continue reading "2000 : First Home Opener at Comerica Park"
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1780: British Captain Henry Bird Leads Indian Attack
1780: British Captain Henry Bird Leads Indian Attack
Apr 12 all-day
During the Revolutionary War, British Captain Henry Bird departs Detroit with 1200 Indians to attack American settlers/rebels in Kentucky.. Sourcse : Historical Society of Michigan Henry Bird Ohio History Central Page. Bird’s Invasion of Kentucky … Continue reading "1780: British Captain Henry Bird Leads Indian Attack"
1825: Elizabeth (Lisette) Denison Becomes First Black Female Landowner in Michigan
1825: Elizabeth (Lisette) Denison Becomes First Black Female Landowner in Michigan
Apr 12 all-day
 Elizabeth Denison was born in 1786 on the estate of William Tucker, on the Clinton River in Macomb County. Her parents, Peter and Hannah Denison, were slaves on the Tucker estate: Hannah served as a … Continue reading "1825: Elizabeth (Lisette) Denison Becomes First Black Female Landowner in Michigan"
1861 : Civil War Begins With Firing on Fort Sumter
1861 : Civil War Begins With Firing on Fort Sumter
Apr 12 all-day
When South Carolina’s coast guard batteries began firing on Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861, there were 72 union soldiers defending the fort, including a young Second Lieutenant from Monroe, Michigan named Norman J. Hall. … Continue reading "1861 : Civil War Begins With Firing on Fort Sumter"
1907 : Helen Claytor Born, First Black President of the National YWCA
1907 : Helen Claytor Born, First Black President of the National YWCA
Apr 12 all-day
Mrs. Helen Jackson Wilkins Claytor made it her life’s work to break down racial barriers, before the term “civil rights” became part of the country’s lexicon. She was born in Minneapolis on April 12, 1907 … Continue reading "1907 : Helen Claytor Born, First Black President of the National YWCA"
1917: Number One Issue Confronting Michigan Farmers
1917: Number One Issue Confronting Michigan Farmers
Apr 12 all-day
n less than a week following the announcement of war against Germany, Michigan Governor Sleeper hears farmers request for labor at food conservation conference. On April 12, 1917, Gov. Albert Sleeper learned at a food … Continue reading "1917: Number One Issue Confronting Michigan Farmers"
1955 : Polio Vaccine Trial Declared A Success at the University of Michigan
1955 : Polio Vaccine Trial Declared A Success at the University of Michigan
Apr 12 all-day
 “Safe, effective, and potent.” With these words on April 12, 1955, Dr. Thomas Francis Jr., director of the Poliomyelitis Vaccine Evaluation Center at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, announced to the world … Continue reading "1955 : Polio Vaccine Trial Declared A Success at the University of Michigan"
1964 : Malcolm X Delivers The Ballot or the Bullet Speech in Detroit
1964 : Malcolm X Delivers The Ballot or the Bullet Speech in Detroit
Apr 12 all-day
April 12, 1964, Malcolm X delivered, in Detroit, one of the most important speeches in the history of the Civil Rights Movement, “The Ballot or the Bullet.” The title alludes to an article written … Continue reading "1964 : Malcolm X Delivers The Ballot or the Bullet Speech in Detroit"
1997 : Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History Opens
1997 : Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History Opens
Apr 12 all-day
 On April 12, 1997, the world’s largest black history museum opened in Detroit. The 120,000-square-foot Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History houses more than 30,000 artifacts and archival materials and is home to … Continue reading "1997 : Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History Opens"
2015 : State Record Black Buffalo Fish Caught
2015 : State Record Black Buffalo Fish Caught
Apr 12 all-day
The state record for black buffalo goes to Sage Colegrove of Muskegon. The fish, weighing 44.54 pounds and measuring 38.50 inches, was caught on the Grand River in Ottawa County at 1 a.m. Sunday, April … Continue reading "2015 : State Record Black Buffalo Fish Caught"
2016 : Michigan State University No Longer Burns Coal
2016 : Michigan State University No Longer Burns Coal
Apr 12 all-day
 Michigan State University is no longer burning coal at the power plant on its East Lansing campus. The school is now using only natural gas and says Tuesday that all of its remaining coal reserves have been burned at … Continue reading "2016 : Michigan State University No Longer Burns Coal"
2016 : Senator Virgil Smith Resigns
2016 : Senator Virgil Smith Resigns
Apr 12 all-day
State Senator Virgil Smith tendered his letter of resignation three days after the Detroit Democrat began a 10-month jail sentence for shooting up his ex-wife’s car. The letter of resignation, which will become official when … Continue reading "2016 : Senator Virgil Smith Resigns"
2017 : Maserati moving North American headquarters to Auburn Hills
2017 : Maserati moving North American headquarters to Auburn Hills
Apr 12 all-day
Maserati has announced it is moving its North American headquarters from New Jersey to the former Walter P. Chrysler Museum in Auburn Hills this year so it can be closer to its parent company, Fiat … Continue reading "2017 : Maserati moving North American headquarters to Auburn Hills"
2017 : MSU Publishes Book About the Rock
2017 : MSU Publishes Book About the Rock
Apr 12 all-day
 Before there was Beaumont Tower or the MSU Union or even the Sparty statue, there was the Rock, a symbol of Spartan spirit. A gift from the Class of 1873, the Rock is a 18,000-year-old pudding stone — … Continue reading "2017 : MSU Publishes Book About the Rock"
2017 : Western Michigan names Georgetown dean as its next President
2017 : Western Michigan names Georgetown dean as its next President
Apr 12 all-day
Western Michigan University has selected Georgetown University dean Edward Montgomery to be its next president, replacing retiring president John Dunn. Montgomery is a labor economist who has had prominent roles in the Clinton and Obama … Continue reading "2017 : Western Michigan names Georgetown dean as its next President"
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1827 : An Act to Regulate Blacks and Mulattoes
1827 : An Act to Regulate Blacks and Mulattoes
Apr 13 all-day
On April 13, 1827, the Michigan Territory passed a law requiring all African-American people in Michigan to register at county clerk offices. If they did not meet requirements for residency, they were required to leave … Continue reading "1827 : An Act to Regulate Blacks and Mulattoes"
1861 : Lansing’s First Civil War Volunteer
1861 : Lansing’s First Civil War Volunteer
Apr 13 all-day
 On April 13, 1861 — the day after the attack on Fort Sumter — Charles T. Foster becomes the first Lansing resident to sign up to fight for the Union at a rally at the … Continue reading "1861 : Lansing’s First Civil War Volunteer"
1866 : Robert Leroy Parker Born, Alias Butch Cassidy
1866 : Robert Leroy Parker Born, Alias Butch Cassidy
Apr 13 all-day
 The ‘Wild Bunch’ posed in business dress for this famous photo taken in Fort Worth, Texas, in 1900. ‘Sundance Kid,’ is seated left, front row, Cassidy is at right. Robert LeRoy Parker (April 13, 1866 – … Continue reading "1866 : Robert Leroy Parker Born, Alias Butch Cassidy"
1907: University of Michigan Expelled from Western Athletic Conference
1907: University of Michigan Expelled from Western Athletic Conference
Apr 13 all-day
The only school to leave and return to the Western Conference/Big Nine/Big Ten Conference is the University of Michigan. Read on to find out why University of Michigan Football Coach Fielding Yost urged Michigan’s Faculty … Continue reading "1907: University of Michigan Expelled from Western Athletic Conference"
1916 : Citizens Research Council of Michigan Created
1916 : Citizens Research Council of Michigan Created
Apr 13 all-day
On April 13, 1916, the organization that was to become the Citizens Research Council of Michigan (CRC) began operations in the City of Detroit. Check out the Citizens Research Council of Michigan Blog. The Citizens … Continue reading "1916 : Citizens Research Council of Michigan Created"
1917 : World War I Fever in Michigan; 100,000 Women Offer To Plant and Harvest Crops
1917 : World War I Fever in Michigan; 100,000 Women Offer To Plant and Harvest Crops
Apr 13 all-day
STATE MOVES TO MAN FARMS: Ex-Governor Warner Heads Committee Named to Banish Food Supply Peril. 100,000 WOMEN OFFER TO SERVE AS NEEDED Schools and Manufacturers Will Be Asked to Send Aid to Garner Harvest Detroit … Continue reading "1917 : World War I Fever in Michigan; 100,000 Women Offer To Plant and Harvest Crops"
1926 : Local Sportswriter Names Green and White Spartans
1926 : Local Sportswriter Names Green and White Spartans
Apr 13 all-day
 If not for the influence of a Greek immigrant family in Lansing, Michigan State University fans might be stuck with a clunker of a nickname: The Staters. Imagine trying to fire up about a name that … Continue reading "1926 : Local Sportswriter Names Green and White Spartans"
1939 : Barbara-Rose Collins Born, First Michigan Black Woman Elected to Congress
1939 : Barbara-Rose Collins Born, First Michigan Black Woman Elected to Congress
Apr 13 all-day
 Barbara-Rose Collins, the first Black woman to serve Michigan on Capitol Hill and a fixture in local, state and national politics for a half-century, has died at age 82, on November 4, 2021. Collins died … Continue reading "1939 : Barbara-Rose Collins Born, First Michigan Black Woman Elected to Congress"
1946 : Al Green Born, African American Singer and Songwriter
1946 : Al Green Born, African American Singer and Songwriter
Apr 13 all-day
 Albert Leornes Greene (born April 13, 1946), also known as Al Green, is an African American singer, songwriter and record producer, best known for recording a series of soul hit singles in the early 1970s, … Continue reading "1946 : Al Green Born, African American Singer and Songwriter"
1954 : Ernie Harwell Announces for First Time at Briggs Stadium in Detroit
1954 : Ernie Harwell Announces for First Time at Briggs Stadium in Detroit
Apr 13 all-day
 On April 13, 1954, Ernie Harwell did his first baseball play-by-play broadcast at Briggs Stadium in Detroit. He was then the voice of the Baltimore Orioles. He was hired by the Tigers for the 1960 … Continue reading "1954 : Ernie Harwell Announces for First Time at Briggs Stadium in Detroit"
2013 : Hellenic Museum of Michigan Opens in Detroit
2013 : Hellenic Museum of Michigan Opens in Detroit
Apr 13 all-day
The Hellenic Museum of Michigan located in the Scherer Mansion in the Cultural Center in Midtown will have its grand opening Apr. 13. For more information, see “Greek culture has a new home in Midtown”, … Continue reading "2013 : Hellenic Museum of Michigan Opens in Detroit"
2019 : Lansing Ignite Win Inaugeral Home Opener
2019 : Lansing Ignite Win Inaugeral Home Opener
Apr 13 all-day
The Lansing Ignite Football Club of the USL League One won its inaugeral home opener by defeating the Richmond Kickers 3-1 at Cooley Law School Stadium on Saturday night. 3,369 fans were in attendance. Saturday … Continue reading "2019 : Lansing Ignite Win Inaugeral Home Opener"
2020 : Grocery Stores Cope With COVID-19 Outbreak
2020 : Grocery Stores Cope With COVID-19 Outbreak
Apr 13 all-day
It’s high-tension time for grocery store workers as five of their Michigan colleagues have died from COVID-19. Amy Drumm, legislative director for the Michigan Retailers Association, said some employees are afraid to come to work. … Continue reading "2020 : Grocery Stores Cope With COVID-19 Outbreak"
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1896: Kellogg’s Corn Flakes Patent Awarded
1896: Kellogg’s Corn Flakes Patent Awarded
Apr 14 all-day
 On April 14, 1896, , John Harvey Kellogg received a patent for Kellogg’s Corn Flakes. This idea for corn flakes began by accident when Kellogg and his younger brother, Will Keith Kellogg, left some cooked … Continue reading "1896: Kellogg’s Corn Flakes Patent Awarded"
1907: 40,000 Cigars Smoked Daily in Grand Rapids
1907: 40,000 Cigars Smoked Daily in Grand Rapids
Apr 14 all-day
Grand Rapids tobacconists report that conservatively, 40,000 cigars are smoked in Grand Rapids every day. Tobacco smokers spend nearly $2000 for cigars, and this figure does not include those who smoke cigarettes, pipes, and chewing … Continue reading "1907: 40,000 Cigars Smoked Daily in Grand Rapids"
1912 : Sinking of the Titanic Anniversary
1912 : Sinking of the Titanic Anniversary
Apr 14 all-day
 April 14-15, 1912 : Sinking of the Titanic Nugget #1: During her maiden voyage, the Titanic struck an iceberg in the North Atlantic. The ship could have survived four flooded compartments – the iceberg ripped … Continue reading "1912 : Sinking of the Titanic Anniversary"
1917: Michigan Senate Judiciary Committee Death Penalty Vote Avoided
1917: Michigan Senate Judiciary Committee Death Penalty Vote Avoided
Apr 14 all-day
On April 14, 1917, the chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee walked out of the Senate as opposed to holding a committee meeting that surely would have resulted in a vote on legislation to institute … Continue reading "1917: Michigan Senate Judiciary Committee Death Penalty Vote Avoided"
1960 : Motown Records Incorporated
1960 : Motown Records Incorporated
Apr 14 all-day
 Motown Record Corp. was incorporated on April 14, 1960. Berry Gordy Jr. had founded Tamla Records on Jan. 12, 1959, when he got an $800 family loan. The name came from a Debbie Reynolds movie … Continue reading "1960 : Motown Records Incorporated"
1977 : Detroit’s Renaissance Center Opens
1977 : Detroit’s Renaissance Center Opens
Apr 14 all-day
 On April 14, 1977, Detroit’s Renaissance Center opened for the first time. Renaissance Center GM Renaissance Center The Renaissance Center was intended by Henry Ford II to symbolize a resurgent Detroit. The focal point of … Continue reading "1977 : Detroit’s Renaissance Center Opens"
1986 : Detroit Free Press and Detroit News Announce Joint-Operating Agreement
1986 : Detroit Free Press and Detroit News Announce Joint-Operating Agreement
Apr 14 all-day
The Free Press and the Detroit News announced their joint-operating agreement on April 14, 1986. The deal, which required federal approval, took effect about three and half years later on Nov. 27, 1989, after it … Continue reading "1986 : Detroit Free Press and Detroit News Announce Joint-Operating Agreement"
2012 : Miracles Inducted Into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
2012 : Miracles Inducted Into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Apr 14 all-day
 The Miracles were Motown’s sparkplug. They were there first, long before acts such as the Supremes, the Four Tops and the Temptations would glide on greater glory into the pop music annals. In the beginning, … Continue reading "2012 : Miracles Inducted Into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame"
2014 : Motown the Musical Premiers in New York
2014 : Motown the Musical Premiers in New York
Apr 14 all-day
Fifty-four years after its humble beginning on West Grand Boulevard in Detroit, that legacy will get bathed in Broadway’s bright lights as “Motown: The Musical” has its official premier today in New York. The … Continue reading "2014 : Motown the Musical Premiers in New York"
2018: “Through the Banks of the Red Cedar” Premieres at Detroit Film Festival
2018: “Through the Banks of the Red Cedar” Premieres at Detroit Film Festival
Apr 14 all-day
“Through the Banks of the Red Cedar”, a documentary directed by Maya Washington on how Michigan State’s recruitment of African-American football players from a segregated South forged championship football teams during the mid-1960s in East … Continue reading "2018: “Through the Banks of the Red Cedar” Premieres at Detroit Film Festival"
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1851 : General Hugh Brady Dies
1851 : General Hugh Brady Dies
Apr 15 all-day
 In 1822, Colonel Brady and five companies of the 2nd Infantry established Fort Brady on the site of the French stockade Fort Repentigny (1751), along the St. Mary’s River at Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan Territory, … Continue reading "1851 : General Hugh Brady Dies"
1859 : Future Governor Luren D. Dickinson Born
1859 : Future Governor Luren D. Dickinson Born
Apr 15 all-day
On April 15, 1859, former Gov. Luren D. Dickinson was born in New York. Dickinson moved to Michigan as a teenager and settled in Charlotte. There, he was a teacher, farmer and school principal. Dickinson … Continue reading "1859 : Future Governor Luren D. Dickinson Born"
1861 : Detroit Loans State of Michigan Half of Money To Organize 1st Regiment
1861 : Detroit Loans State of Michigan Half of Money To Organize 1st Regiment
Apr 15 all-day
On April 15th, 1861, then President Lincoln put out a call for military volunteers from the states due to the outbreak of the Civil War. Michigan Officials discerned that they did not have the $100,000 … Continue reading "1861 : Detroit Loans State of Michigan Half of Money To Organize 1st Regiment"
1911: Detroit Tigers Famous Blizzard Game
1911: Detroit Tigers Famous Blizzard Game
Apr 15 all-day
 The Detroit Tigers’ famed “Blizzard Game” was held on April 15, 1911, when the snowfall was so thick that batters were making base hits on account of the ball getting lost in the snow. According … Continue reading "1911: Detroit Tigers Famous Blizzard Game"
1912 : Dowagiac Couple Enter First Titanic Lifeboat
1912 : Dowagiac Couple Enter First Titanic Lifeboat
Apr 15 all-day
 At the suggestion of the crew, the newlyweds Helen and Dickinson Bishop (Helen was pregnant) were put in the first lifeboat to be lowered into the water from the Titanic. Their lifeboat had 28 people, … Continue reading "1912 : Dowagiac Couple Enter First Titanic Lifeboat"
1912: Another Titanic/Michigan Connection
1912: Another Titanic/Michigan Connection
Apr 15 all-day
 Emily Goldsmith and Frankie Goldsmith in a photo taken in Detroit in 1913. On the evening of April 14, 1912, in the chilly waters of the north Atlantic, the passenger ship RMS Titanic struck an … Continue reading "1912: Another Titanic/Michigan Connection"
1952 : First Octopus Thrown Onto Ice at Red Wing Games
1952 : First Octopus Thrown Onto Ice at Red Wing Games
Apr 15 all-day
 Brothers Peter and Jerry Cusimano — storeowner’s in Detroit’s Eastern Market — started the tradition of throwing an octupus onto the ice at Red Wing games. The fish market owners flung the premier eight-legged cephalopod … Continue reading "1952 : First Octopus Thrown Onto Ice at Red Wing Games"
1977 : Detroit Renaissance Center Dedicated
1977 : Detroit Renaissance Center Dedicated
Apr 15 all-day
 On April 15, 1977, the formal dedication the Detroit Renaissance Center, the gleaming cluster of four 39-floor office towers and a 73-story hotel, was held. In 1996, General Motors bought the Center and announced major … Continue reading "1977 : Detroit Renaissance Center Dedicated"
2002 : Byron Ramond “Whizzer” White Dies, Detroit Lion and Supreme Court Justice
2002 : Byron Ramond “Whizzer” White Dies, Detroit Lion and Supreme Court Justice
Apr 15 all-day
 For most athletes the peak of their professional careers occurs between the lines. Once they retire from the game, they recede into the background of history. But for Whizzer White, his years as a star … Continue reading "2002 : Byron Ramond “Whizzer” White Dies, Detroit Lion and Supreme Court Justice"
2013 : Fishing Allowed on MSU’s Campus in Red Cedar River
2013 : Fishing Allowed on MSU’s Campus in Red Cedar River
Apr 15 all-day
 For the first time since the 1960’s, students and members of the public are now once again able to fish the Red Cedar River. During the December 2012 Board of Trustees Meeting, the Board of … Continue reading "2013 : Fishing Allowed on MSU’s Campus in Red Cedar River"
2014 : Detroit Receives Record Snowfall
2014 : Detroit Receives Record Snowfall
Apr 15 all-day
Well it’s official: The cold season of 2013-14 is the snowiest on record for the metro area. The 3.1 inches of snow that fell Monday night into Tuesday morning brought this season’s total to 94.8 … Continue reading "2014 : Detroit Receives Record Snowfall"
2020: Operation Gridlock Ties Up Downtown Michigan
2020: Operation Gridlock Ties Up Downtown Michigan
Apr 15 all-day
 “Operation Gridlock” kicked off at noon in downtown Lansing with what appeared to be a huge number of participants in vehicles honking horns, waving American flags and circling the capitol building. Organized by groups including … Continue reading "2020: Operation Gridlock Ties Up Downtown Michigan"
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1861 : Governor Austin Blair Begins Recruiting Troops To Preserve Union
1861 : Governor Austin Blair Begins Recruiting Troops To Preserve Union
Apr 16 all-day
 On Tuesday, April 16, 1861, four days after the firing on Fort Sumter, Governor Austin Blair reached Detroit and in the afternoon held a conference with the state military officers and a large number of … Continue reading "1861 : Governor Austin Blair Begins Recruiting Troops To Preserve Union"
1895 : Detroit Free Press Names Baseball Team Tigers
1895 : Detroit Free Press Names Baseball Team Tigers
Apr 16 all-day
On April 16, 1895, Detroit’s baseball club was called the Tigers for the first time in an article by Phil Reed in the Detroit Free Press. Source : Historical Society of Michigan Note : The … Continue reading "1895 : Detroit Free Press Names Baseball Team Tigers"
1912 : Michigan Woman First to Fly Solo Over English Channel
1912 : Michigan Woman First to Fly Solo Over English Channel
Apr 16 all-day
 On this day Harriet Quimby became the first women to fly solo over the English Channel. Quimby was born on May 11, 1875, in Kinderhook Township, Michigan. She is also credited with being the first … Continue reading "1912 : Michigan Woman First to Fly Solo Over English Channel"
2015 : Former Michigan U.S. Senator Robert Paul Griffin Dies
2015 : Former Michigan U.S. Senator Robert Paul Griffin Dies
Apr 16 all-day
Former Michigan U.S. Sen. Robert Paul Griffin, a key Republican congressional leader during the Watergate crisis of the 1970s who helped prod President Richard Nixon to resign, died at his home in Traverse City. Griffin, … Continue reading "2015 : Former Michigan U.S. Senator Robert Paul Griffin Dies"
2018 : Des Linden Wins Boston Marathon
2018 : Des Linden Wins Boston Marathon
Apr 16 all-day
Des Linden knows the Boston Marathon course by heart, from Hopkinton to Heartbreak Hill and everything that comes after. For more than a decade now, she has said that this race brings the best out … Continue reading "2018 : Des Linden Wins Boston Marathon"
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1802 : Detroit Establishes First City Tax in Michigan
1802 : Detroit Establishes First City Tax in Michigan
Apr 17 all-day
On April 17, 1802, the first city tax was collected in Detroit, bringing in a total of $150. Every adult was taxed 25 cents. Source: Michigan History
1862 : Big Rapids Pioneer Debuts
1862 : Big Rapids Pioneer Debuts
Apr 17 all-day
The first issue of the Big Rapids Pioneer, a five-column folio, was printed on April 17, 1862. Charlie Gay was the proprietor, owner, and co-editor with Ceylon C. Fuller. The paper was under the same … Continue reading "1862 : Big Rapids Pioneer Debuts"
1893 : Tidal Wave Strikes St. Joseph
1893 : Tidal Wave Strikes St. Joseph
Apr 17 all-day
A six-foot-high seiche, or tidal wave, surged from Lake Michigan and swept 700 feet beyond the high water mark in St. Joseph. Source : Historical Society of Michigan
1942 : 10,000 Workers Protest Jim Crow in Detroit
1942 : 10,000 Workers Protest Jim Crow in Detroit
Apr 17 all-day
Over 10,000 Negro and white workers marched to Cadillac Square in Detroit to protest Negro discrimination. Source : 10,000 Workers Protest Jim Crow in Detroit, spotted on Detroit Historical Society Facebook Page, September 10, 2015.
1955 : Al Kaline, Youngest Baseball Player To Win Batting Title
1955 : Al Kaline, Youngest Baseball Player To Win Batting Title
Apr 17 all-day
 Al Kaline of the Detroit Tigers became the youngest baseball player to win the league batting title. In 1955 Al Kaline, who had signed with the Tigers the day after graduating from high school two … Continue reading "1955 : Al Kaline, Youngest Baseball Player To Win Batting Title"
1979 : Governor Milliken Ends Bounty on Coyotes
1979 : Governor Milliken Ends Bounty on Coyotes
Apr 17 all-day
 Former Gov. William G. Milliken signed a law on April 17, 1979 that ended a bounty on coyotes. Coyotes are found throughout Michigan and have dispersed into southern Michigan without assistance from the DNR. Coyotes … Continue reading "1979 : Governor Milliken Ends Bounty on Coyotes"
2013 : Ford Mustang Celebrates 50th Year
2013 : Ford Mustang Celebrates 50th Year
Apr 17 all-day
 The 1965 Ford Mustang fastback on display outside the Ford Pavilion at the New York World’s Fair during its debut on April 17, 1964 Ford Motor Co. on Wednesday kicked off its 50th year of … Continue reading "2013 : Ford Mustang Celebrates 50th Year"
2015 : A. Alfred Taubman Dies
2015 : A. Alfred Taubman Dies
Apr 17 all-day
Adolph Alfred Taubman (January 31, 1924 – April 17, 2015) was an American real estate developer and philanthropist from Michigan. He pioneered the modern indoor shopping mall and was described by CBS News as a … Continue reading "2015 : A. Alfred Taubman Dies"
2020: Trump Tweets “Liberate Michigan”
2020: Trump Tweets “Liberate Michigan”
Apr 17 all-day
President Donald Trump targeted Michigan, Minnesota and Virginia in tweets Friday calling for officials to “liberate” the states amid protests over stay-at-home orders aimed at stemming the spread of COVID-19. Trump first tweeted “LIBERATE MINNESOTA!” … Continue reading "2020: Trump Tweets “Liberate Michigan”"
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1837 : Grand River Times Launches
1837 : Grand River Times Launches
Apr 18 all-day
In the fall of 1836 the Kent Company purchased, for about $4,000, the office material of the Niagara Falls Journal, and shipped it from Buffalo on the steamer Don Quixote. The boat was wrecked off … Continue reading "1837 : Grand River Times Launches"
1850 : Joseph Labadie Born in Paw Paw
1850 : Joseph Labadie Born in Paw Paw
Apr 18 all-day
Joseph Labadie (1850-1933) was a Detroit writer and poet, and was involved with nearly every left wing and labor-related issue of the late 1800s. Jo Labadie was born on April 18, 1850, in Paw Paw, … Continue reading "1850 : Joseph Labadie Born in Paw Paw"
1902 : M.A.C. Aggies Play First Baseball Game At College Field
1902 : M.A.C. Aggies Play First Baseball Game At College Field
Apr 18 all-day
In 1900 about 625 students attended the State Agricultural College, commonly known as M.A.C. The schools was the precursor to Michigan State University. Making a new commitment to serious intercollegiate athletic competition, the college purchased … Continue reading "1902 : M.A.C. Aggies Play First Baseball Game At College Field"
1943 : Michigan Pilot Shoots Down Japan’s Top Military Leader
1943 : Michigan Pilot Shoots Down Japan’s Top Military Leader
Apr 18 all-day
 Approximate routes taken by the Japanese (red) and Americans (green) on the morning of April 18, 1943. “The Slot” was still Japanese-controlled, requiring the Americans to circle around it to avoid detection. This was the … Continue reading "1943 : Michigan Pilot Shoots Down Japan’s Top Military Leader"
1951 : U.S. Senator Arthur Vandenberg of Grand Rapids Dies
1951 : U.S. Senator Arthur Vandenberg of Grand Rapids Dies
Apr 18 all-day
 Michigan’s U.S. Senator, Arthur Vandenburg When Michigan’s U.S. Senator Nathan Ferris, a Democrat, died in office in 1928, Gov. Fred Green appointed Arthur Vandenburg of Grand Rapids to take his place. He was elected by … Continue reading "1951 : U.S. Senator Arthur Vandenberg of Grand Rapids Dies"
1975 : Lansing Inundated By Rain
1975 : Lansing Inundated By Rain
Apr 18 all-day
According to State Journal archives, Friday, April 18, 1975, brought a spring storm that dumped between 2.3 to 5 inches of rain on the Lansing area, causing the Grand River to swell to 15.3 feet … Continue reading "1975 : Lansing Inundated By Rain"
1991 : Joey Gaedos, Jr. Born, School of Rock Guitarist
1991 : Joey Gaedos, Jr. Born, School of Rock Guitarist
Apr 18 all-day
 Joey Gaydos Jr. at age 11 with Jack Black in School of Rock. Canton resident Joey Gaydos Jr., 25, who played the role of Zack in the film School of Rock, now teaches rock guitar … Continue reading "1991 : Joey Gaedos, Jr. Born, School of Rock Guitarist"
2009 : Jim Abbott’s University of Michigan Baseball Number Retired
2009 : Jim Abbott’s University of Michigan Baseball Number Retired
Apr 18 all-day
 Photo of Jim Abbott in 1998 Jim Abbott’s University of Michigan #31 baseball jersey was retired at the Wolverines’ April 18, 2009 home game against Michigan State University. James Anthony (Jim) Abbott (born September 19, … Continue reading "2009 : Jim Abbott’s University of Michigan Baseball Number Retired"
2011 : Reed Gunther Comic Series, Created by Former Residents of St. Johns
2011 : Reed Gunther Comic Series, Created by Former Residents of St. Johns
Apr 18 all-day
 So what is this Reed Gunther comic all about? It’s a comedic western about a cowboy named Reed Gunther; strong, bold, fearless, and not quite as bright as he thinks he is, Reed is often … Continue reading "2011 : Reed Gunther Comic Series, Created by Former Residents of St. Johns"
2012 : President Obama Visits the Henry Ford Museum
2012 : President Obama Visits the Henry Ford Museum
Apr 18 all-day
 President Barack Obama sits in the famous Rosa Parks bus at the Henry Ford Museum after an event in Dearborn, Michigan, April 18, 2012. Parks was arrested sitting in the same row Obama is … Continue reading "2012 : President Obama Visits the Henry Ford Museum"
2015 : State-Record White Perch Caught
2015 : State-Record White Perch Caught
Apr 18 all-day
North Muskgon’s Cindy Lou Cordo has caught a state record size white perch, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Cordo reeled in the 2-pound white perch measuring 13.57 inches while fishing with her … Continue reading "2015 : State-Record White Perch Caught"
2017 : Wayne State Dedicates Harwell Field
2017 : Wayne State Dedicates Harwell Field
Apr 18 all-day
Wayne State celebrated the grand opening of Harwell Field on April 18, 2017. S. Gary Spicer, Kirk Gibson and Alan Trammell were among those who attended. It all started with a simple thank-you letter. Wayne … Continue reading "2017 : Wayne State Dedicates Harwell Field"
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1910 : Prohibition Jeapardizes Michigan Municipal League Meeting in Lansing”
1910 : Prohibition Jeapardizes Michigan Municipal League Meeting in Lansing”
Apr 19 all-day
April 19, 1910. Mayor Bennett and Lansing’s aldermen have been placed in an embarrassing position. “It seems that city officials who attend these annual meetings, at the expense of the taxpayers in most instances, to … Continue reading "1910 : Prohibition Jeapardizes Michigan Municipal League Meeting in Lansing”"
1912 : Glenn Theodore Seaborg Born, Ishpeming’s Nobel Laureate
1912 : Glenn Theodore Seaborg Born, Ishpeming’s Nobel Laureate
Apr 19 all-day
 Throughout his long career as a scientist of the first magnitude and popular speaker at prestigious scientific gatherings, Glenn Seaborg always liked to mention that he was born in Ishpeming and “I can see by … Continue reading "1912 : Glenn Theodore Seaborg Born, Ishpeming’s Nobel Laureate"
1917 : Michigan State Police Founded
1917 : Michigan State Police Founded
Apr 19 all-day
On April 19, 1917, Gov. Albert Sleeper created the Michigan State Troops Permanent Force, also known as the Michigan State Constabulary. With Col. Roy C. Vandercook as the first commanding officer, this new force consisted … Continue reading "1917 : Michigan State Police Founded"
1927 : First Broadcast on Radio of Detroit Tigers Regular Season Game
1927 : First Broadcast on Radio of Detroit Tigers Regular Season Game
Apr 19 all-day
 On April 19, 1927, Ty Tyson provided the play-by-play on WWJ for the first radio broadcast of a regular season Detroit Tiger game, an 8-5 win over Cleveland Indians. Listen to Tyson announcing a game … Continue reading "1927 : First Broadcast on Radio of Detroit Tigers Regular Season Game"
1963 : Detroit Statues Forever Linked by Prank
1963 : Detroit Statues Forever Linked by Prank
Apr 19 all-day
 On this date, two Detroit statues were forever linked by a spring prank, possibly undertaken by a University of Detroit fraternity but never proved. That night, huge green footprints were painted from “The Sprit of … Continue reading "1963 : Detroit Statues Forever Linked by Prank"
1973 : Williamsburg Evacuated Because of Leaking Underground Natural Gas
1973 : Williamsburg Evacuated Because of Leaking Underground Natural Gas
Apr 19 all-day
It was April 19, 1973 when hundreds of craters and geysers mysteriously appeared around the small Northern Michigan community of Williamsburg near Traverse City. The 100 to 150 craters ranged from teacup-size fissures to sinkholes … Continue reading "1973 : Williamsburg Evacuated Because of Leaking Underground Natural Gas"
1995 : Oklahoma City Bombing
1995 : Oklahoma City Bombing
Apr 19 all-day
 On April 19, 1995, a truck-bomb explosion outside the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, left 168 people dead and hundreds more injured. The blast was set off by anti-government militant Timothy … Continue reading "1995 : Oklahoma City Bombing"
2018 : 3.6 earthquake shakes Ontario, Downriver
2018 : 3.6 earthquake shakes Ontario, Downriver
Apr 19 all-day
 A small earthquake rattled parts of Ontario and southeast Michigan on Thursday night and sent startled residents outside and online looking for answers. A magnitude 3.6 quake — the largest in Michigan since 1947 — … Continue reading "2018 : 3.6 earthquake shakes Ontario, Downriver"
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1861 : Swearing An Oath of Allegiance to the U.S.
1861 : Swearing An Oath of Allegiance to the U.S.
Apr 20 all-day
 April 2o, 1861 : Eight days after South Carolina fires on Fort Sumter, starting the Civil War, government officials in Detroit flood the Griswold Street post office to take an oath of allegiance. Photo courtesy … Continue reading "1861 : Swearing An Oath of Allegiance to the U.S."
1909 : First Mile of Concrete Highway Laid
1909 : First Mile of Concrete Highway Laid
Apr 20 all-day
 The nation’s first mile of concrete highway is laid. With Detroit moving rapidly to become the nation’s automobile capital, residents demanded better roads. In response, the Wayne County Road Commission laid the first stretch of … Continue reading "1909 : First Mile of Concrete Highway Laid"
1912 : Navin Field / Briggs Stadium / Tiger Stadium Opens
1912 : Navin Field / Briggs Stadium / Tiger Stadium Opens
Apr 20 all-day
 It’s long gone now, but 100 years ago today the Tigers moved into their new home at the corner of Michigan and Trumbull. Navin Field — renamed Briggs Stadium in 1938 and Tiger Stadium in … Continue reading "1912 : Navin Field / Briggs Stadium / Tiger Stadium Opens"
1938 : Navin Field Expands, Renamed Briggs Stadium
1938 : Navin Field Expands, Renamed Briggs Stadium
Apr 20 all-day
 On April 20, 1938, the Detroit Tigers opened its new season with a 20,000-seat expansion at Navin Field, pushing stadium capacity to more than 53,000 seats. The remodeled field was renamed after the Tigers’ owner, … Continue reading "1938 : Navin Field Expands, Renamed Briggs Stadium"
1948 : Orlando LeValley Dies, Last Native-Born Michigan Civil War Veteran
1948 : Orlando LeValley Dies, Last Native-Born Michigan Civil War Veteran
Apr 20 all-day
On April 20, 1948, Orlando LeValley, Michigan’s last living native-born Civil War veteran, died just short of 100 on his family farm in Caro. Michigan Governor Sigler flew to this Thumb farming center to speak … Continue reading "1948 : Orlando LeValley Dies, Last Native-Born Michigan Civil War Veteran"
1948 : Walter Reuther Shot In Attempted Assasination
1948 : Walter Reuther Shot In Attempted Assasination
Apr 20 all-day
On April 20, 1948, Walter Reuther was severely wounded in an assassination attempt at his home in Detroit. The 12-gauge shotgun blast shattered a kitchen window and nearly severed Reuther’s right arm. Doctors at Grace … Continue reading "1948 : Walter Reuther Shot In Attempted Assasination"
1952 : Prison Riot in Jackson
1952 : Prison Riot in Jackson
Apr 20 all-day
April 20-25, 1952 In one of the worst riots in Michigan Department of Corrections history, prison guards were seized and fire broke out at the Jackson Maximum Security Prison. State Police were called in to … Continue reading "1952 : Prison Riot in Jackson"
1953 : Congressman Louis C. Rabaut (D-Mich) Introduces Bill To Insert “Under God” in the Pledge of Allegiance
1953 : Congressman Louis C. Rabaut (D-Mich) Introduces Bill To Insert “Under God” in the Pledge of Allegiance
Apr 20 all-day
Louis Charles Rabaut (December 5, 1886 – November 12, 1961) was politician from the U.S. state of Michigan. He was a Democratic congressman representing Michigan’s 14th congressional district from 1935 to 1947, and from 1949 … Continue reading "1953 : Congressman Louis C. Rabaut (D-Mich) Introduces Bill To Insert “Under God” in the Pledge of Allegiance"
1993 : Baby Jessica Returned to Iowa
1993 : Baby Jessica Returned to Iowa
Apr 20 all-day
Sometime before midnight on April 20, 1993, two-year-old Jessica DeBoer of Ann Arbor, Michigan, is scheduled to disappear, leaving behind a heartbroken couple she calls Mommy and Daddy, a dog named Miles, her yellow bedroom … Continue reading "1993 : Baby Jessica Returned to Iowa"
1999: Naked Mile Reaches Zenith
1999: Naked Mile Reaches Zenith
Apr 20 all-day
The Naked Mile was a popular University of Michigan campus tradition ever since 12 members of the university’s men’s and women’s rowing team and varsity men’s track team made the first streak down South University … Continue reading "1999: Naked Mile Reaches Zenith"
2005: Joe Mack, Controversial Michigan Legislator, Dies
2005: Joe Mack, Controversial Michigan Legislator, Dies
Apr 20 all-day
Joseph Mack — you either loved or hated him. Mining and timber lobbyists loved him. Environmentalists hated him. Born to a mining family, Mack was one of 10 children. After graduating high school, he attended … Continue reading "2005: Joe Mack, Controversial Michigan Legislator, Dies"
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1912 : Detroit Free Press Headlines for April 21, 1912
1912 : Detroit Free Press Headlines for April 21, 1912
Apr 21 all-day
Highlights from the Detroit Free Press, April 21, 1912… EIGHT SURVIVORS OF TITANIC HERE; SICK OF HORRORS: TWO WOMEN, NERVE-SHATTERED AND HYSTERICAL; THREE CHILDREN, ONE A BABY ONLY ONE YEAR OLD; THREE BELGIANS, STEERAGE PASSENGERS … Continue reading "1912 : Detroit Free Press Headlines for April 21, 1912"
1928 : Nation’s First Airplane Show
1928 : Nation’s First Airplane Show
Apr 21 all-day
April 12-21, 1928 orty different aircraft manufacturers gather in Detroit for a week where they displayed sixty-three different aircraft in the nation’s first aircraft show. Sources : Michigan Historical Calendar, courtesy of the Clarke Historical … Continue reading "1928 : Nation’s First Airplane Show"
1948: James Zarichny, MSC Senior and Political Activist, Stands Tall Against Michigan Legislature
1948: James Zarichny, MSC Senior and Political Activist, Stands Tall Against Michigan Legislature
Apr 21 all-day
 The Michigan Legislature has always had issues with the liberal nature of Michigan colleges and universities. In 1948, the Michigan Senate Committee on Un-American Activities was infected with righteous indignation about communism during the height … Continue reading "1948: James Zarichny, MSC Senior and Political Activist, Stands Tall Against Michigan Legislature"
1949 : “MSU Shadows” Officially Adopted as the Alma Mater
1949 : “MSU Shadows” Officially Adopted as the Alma Mater
Apr 21 all-day
“MSU Shadows” was officially adopted as the alma mater for Michigan State on April 21, 1949. It was chosen by student vote after a long effort to identify and obtain a distinctive melody for the … Continue reading "1949 : “MSU Shadows” Officially Adopted as the Alma Mater"
1975: Major Flood Strikes Lansing Area, Including MSU
1975: Major Flood Strikes Lansing Area, Including MSU
Apr 21 all-day
 Water Woes: Flooding in MSU’s past With the recent weather related news, much discussion has arisen regarding floods that have occurred on the campus. There have been three major floods recorded in MSU’s history. The most … Continue reading "1975: Major Flood Strikes Lansing Area, Including MSU"
2016 : Flint’s Dr Mona Hanna-Attisha Honored by Time Magazine
2016 : Flint’s Dr Mona Hanna-Attisha Honored by Time Magazine
Apr 21 all-day
 TIME has named Mona Hanna-Attisha, director of the Michigan State University and Hurley Children’s Hospital Pediatric Public Health Initiative, to the 2016 TIME 100 — its annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world. The … Continue reading "2016 : Flint’s Dr Mona Hanna-Attisha Honored by Time Magazine"
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1833 : Kalamazoo College was First School Chartered by the Territory of Michigan
1833 : Kalamazoo College was First School Chartered by the Territory of Michigan
Apr 22 all-day
 Kalamazoo College was founded in 1833 by a group of Baptist ministers as the Michigan and Huron Institute. Its charter was granted on April 22, 1833, the first school chartered by the Legislative Council of … Continue reading "1833 : Kalamazoo College was First School Chartered by the Territory of Michigan"
1933 : Michigan 18 Year Olds Granted the Right To Drink Wine and Beer Following Repeal of Prohibition
1933 : Michigan 18 Year Olds Granted the Right To Drink Wine and Beer Following Repeal of Prohibition
Apr 22 all-day
On April 27, 1933, in celebration of the repeal of Prohibition, Michigan Gov. William A. Comstock approved a law permitting people to drink beer and wine starting at age 18. According to the Michigan Historical … Continue reading "1933 : Michigan 18 Year Olds Granted the Right To Drink Wine and Beer Following Repeal of Prohibition"
1948 : Orland LeValley Dies, Last of the 90,000 Michigan Civil War Veterans
1948 : Orland LeValley Dies, Last of the 90,000 Michigan Civil War Veterans
Apr 22 all-day
On April 22, 1948, Orlando LeValley died at his farm outside Caro, Mich. The longtime farmer, who had enlisted in the 23rd Michigan Infantry Regiment as a 16-year-old in 1864, was the last of the … Continue reading "1948 : Orland LeValley Dies, Last of the 90,000 Michigan Civil War Veterans"
1956 : Wayne State University Recognized by Michigan Legislature
1956 : Wayne State University Recognized by Michigan Legislature
Apr 22 all-day
On April 22, 1956, the Michigan Legislature adopted Act 183 “to establish and regulate a state institution of higher learning to be known as Wayne State University.” This legislative act opened the doors for Wayne … Continue reading "1956 : Wayne State University Recognized by Michigan Legislature"
2006 : Neo-Nazis Visit Michigan Capitol
2006 : Neo-Nazis Visit Michigan Capitol
Apr 22 all-day
Roughly 75 Neo-Nazis were met by 800 counter protestors at the Michigan Capitol on April 22, 2006, when a Minneapolis-based extremist group decided to visit Lansing. The group advocated barring illegal immigration and villified Jews. … Continue reading "2006 : Neo-Nazis Visit Michigan Capitol"
2015: National Shrine of the Little Flower Catholic Church in Royal Oak to Become “Basilica”
2015: National Shrine of the Little Flower Catholic Church in Royal Oak to Become “Basilica”
Apr 22 all-day
Pope Francis has bestowed the title of “basilica” upon the historic National Shrine of the Little Flower Catholic Church in Royal Oak, making it only the second church in Michigan and one of 82 in … Continue reading "2015: National Shrine of the Little Flower Catholic Church in Royal Oak to Become “Basilica”"
2017 : Lois E. Holt Dies, Flint’s First Black School Teacher
2017 : Lois E. Holt Dies, Flint’s First Black School Teacher
Apr 22 all-day
 Lois E. Holt died on Saturday, April 22. She was 101. Holt was known as Flint’s first black school teacher, and her late husband Edgar (pictured on wall) made huge strides toward diversity and racial … Continue reading "2017 : Lois E. Holt Dies, Flint’s First Black School Teacher"
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1814 : Bela Hubbard Born, Famous Detroiter and MSU Supporter
1814 : Bela Hubbard Born, Famous Detroiter and MSU Supporter
Apr 23 all-day
Detroit has a Hubbard Street. A dormitory at Michigan State is called Hubbard Hall. On Six Mile and Schaefer is the Hubbard branch of the Detroit Public Library. There’s a small neighborhood on Detroit’s southwest … Continue reading "1814 : Bela Hubbard Born, Famous Detroiter and MSU Supporter"
1859 : Michigan Asylum for the Insane Admits First Patient
1859 : Michigan Asylum for the Insane Admits First Patient
Apr 23 all-day
On April 23, 1859, the Michigan Asylum for the Insane in Kalamazoo, Michigan’s first state institution for the treatment of the mentally ill, admitted its first patient. For many years, however, most families, rather than … Continue reading "1859 : Michigan Asylum for the Insane Admits First Patient"
1878 : Lansing Inventor George Richmond Receives Speaking Telephone Transmitter Patent
1878 : Lansing Inventor George Richmond Receives Speaking Telephone Transmitter Patent
Apr 23 all-day
George Richmond, a young Lansing dentist, developed a working telephone in 1873, three years before Alexander Graham Bell. According to a 1983 article by Manuel Castro in Lansing Metropolitan Quarterly, Richmond set up a telephone … Continue reading "1878 : Lansing Inventor George Richmond Receives Speaking Telephone Transmitter Patent"
1918: Henry Ford Gives His First Fordson Tractor to a Friend
1918: Henry Ford Gives His First Fordson Tractor to a Friend
Apr 23 all-day
 Photo of Henry Ford and a farmer driving the Fordson Tractor Luther Burbank (who developed the Idaho potato!) was an American plant breeder, naturalist, and author who was well-known for his experiments with plants, fruits, … Continue reading "1918: Henry Ford Gives His First Fordson Tractor to a Friend"
1939 : Lee Majors Born in Wyandotte
1939 : Lee Majors Born in Wyandotte
Apr 23 all-day
Lee Majors, who starred in such television series as “The Big Valley”, “The Six-Million Dollar Man”, and “The Fall Guy” was born in Wyandotte. “My dad passed away there when mom was eight months’ pregnant … Continue reading "1939 : Lee Majors Born in Wyandotte"
1954 : Michael Moore Born
1954 : Michael Moore Born
Apr 23 all-day
 On April 23, 1954, filmmaker Michael Moore was born in Davison. In his career, he’s directed and/or produced many documentaries including: Bowling for Columbine, which examines the causes of the Columbine High School massacre and … Continue reading "1954 : Michael Moore Born"
1994 : Ku Klux Klan Rally Held at Michigan Capitol
1994 : Ku Klux Klan Rally Held at Michigan Capitol
Apr 23 all-day
Twenty-seven members of the Ku Klux Klan taunted counter protestors, promoting racism and praising God for AIDS, on this day at the Michigan Capitol. A 6-foot chain link fence and a line of police provided … Continue reading "1994 : Ku Klux Klan Rally Held at Michigan Capitol"
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1898 : Michigan National Guard Called Up for Service in Spanish-American War
1898 : Michigan National Guard Called Up for Service in Spanish-American War
Apr 24 all-day
 On the night of Feb. 15, 1898, the Battleship Maine — which had been sent to Havana, Cuba to rescue U.S. citizens caught up in a Cuban insurrection against their colonial rulers (Spain) — famously … Continue reading "1898 : Michigan National Guard Called Up for Service in Spanish-American War"
1941 : Chrysler Turns Out First Tank for the Arsenal of Democracy
1941 : Chrysler Turns Out First Tank for the Arsenal of Democracy
Apr 24 all-day
 The first tank delivered from Detroit’s newest and largest defense plant was an M3, which weighed 30 tons and was produced at a rapid pace during World War II. Officials from both the Chrysler Corporation … Continue reading "1941 : Chrysler Turns Out First Tank for the Arsenal of Democracy"
1959 : Bomber Flown Under Mackinac Bridge
1959 : Bomber Flown Under Mackinac Bridge
Apr 24 all-day
 Bystanders near the Straits of Mackinac surely witnessed something remarkable on April 24, 1959. That’s when Air Force Capt. John S. Lappo, a native of Muskegon, interrupted a calm Friday afternoon in the region by … Continue reading "1959 : Bomber Flown Under Mackinac Bridge"
1965 : Carnival Tragedy Leads to Safety-Inspection Law
1965 : Carnival Tragedy Leads to Safety-Inspection Law
Apr 24 all-day
On April 24, 1965, at a carnival in a suburban Taylor Township shopping center parking lot, five children were riding in the “Flying Comet,” a mechanical “maypole” whose arms and attached buckets whirled in circles … Continue reading "1965 : Carnival Tragedy Leads to Safety-Inspection Law"
2007 : Lawson Deming, a.k.a. Sir Graves Ghastly, Dies
2007 : Lawson Deming, a.k.a. Sir Graves Ghastly, Dies
Apr 24 all-day
 Lawson J. Deming (April 23, 1913 – April 24, 2007) was a radio and TV character actor best known in Detroit, Cleveland, Washington, D.C. and parts of Canada as the Saturday afternoon television horror movie … Continue reading "2007 : Lawson Deming, a.k.a. Sir Graves Ghastly, Dies"
Arbor Day
Arbor Day
Apr 24 all-day
On April 10, 1872, journalist and newspaper editor J.Sterling Morton established Arbor Day in the state of Nebraska with hopes that it would spread across the country. This first Arbor Day challenged the people of … Continue reading "Arbor Day"
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1865 : Detroit Holds Parade in Honor of Slain President Lincoln
1865 : Detroit Holds Parade in Honor of Slain President Lincoln
Apr 25 all-day
 This lithograph from the Detroit Historical Society shows Phoenix Steam Fire Engine No. 3 as it appeared in Lincoln’s funeral procession in Detroit. On the morning of April 15, 1865 President Abraham Lincoln died of … Continue reading "1865 : Detroit Holds Parade in Honor of Slain President Lincoln"
1901 :Tigers Play First Opening Day
1901 :Tigers Play First Opening Day
Apr 25 all-day
 Opening Day is special. Every team and every player starts out with a clean slate. If your team wins that day, you secretly wonder: can we win ’em all? Is this the year? Hope … Continue reading "1901 :Tigers Play First Opening Day"
1907 : Female Soldier’s Home Residents in Grand Rapids Protest Weekly Bath
1907 : Female Soldier’s Home Residents in Grand Rapids Protest Weekly Bath
Apr 25 all-day
On April 25, 1907, occupants of the women’s annex at the Soldiers’ home in Grand Rapids were compelled to take a bath once a week, but some occupants objected to the commandant’s stand for cleanliness. … Continue reading "1907 : Female Soldier’s Home Residents in Grand Rapids Protest Weekly Bath"
1920 : Esther Gordy Edwards Born, Mother of Motown
1920 : Esther Gordy Edwards Born, Mother of Motown
Apr 25 all-day
 Esther Gordy Edwards (April 25, 1920 – August 24, 2011) was a staff member and associate of her younger brother Berry Gordy’s Motown label during the 1960s. Edwards created the Motown Museum, Hitsville U.S.A., by preserving the label’s Detroit studio. She … Continue reading "1920 : Esther Gordy Edwards Born, Mother of Motown"
1937: Clements Joseph Sohns, Early Aerial Daredevel, Dies When Parachutes Fail to Open
1937: Clements Joseph Sohns, Early Aerial Daredevel, Dies When Parachutes Fail to Open
Apr 25 all-day
 Picture taken from Michigan Historical Review Facebook Page, June 1, 2017 Clements Joseph Sohn (December 7, 1910 – April 25, 1937) was an American airshow dare-devil in the 1930s from Fowler, Michigan, USA. He perfected … Continue reading "1937: Clements Joseph Sohns, Early Aerial Daredevel, Dies When Parachutes Fail to Open"
1955: Mariner’s Church Moved To Accommodate Detroit Civic Center
1955: Mariner’s Church Moved To Accommodate Detroit Civic Center
Apr 25 all-day
 On April 25, 1959, Life chronicles the move of Mariners’ Church to make room room for the Detroit Civic Center. It’s dwarfed by the towering RenCen hovering over it, but Mariners’ Church of Detroit on … Continue reading "1955: Mariner’s Church Moved To Accommodate Detroit Civic Center"
1959 : St. Lawrence Seaway Opens
1959 : St. Lawrence Seaway Opens
Apr 25 all-day
 On April 25, 1959, the St. Lawrence Seaway first opened. This 400 mile water rout connected Michigan with the Atlantic ocean. On the plus side, this made shipping Michigan manufacturing goods abroad much easier. For … Continue reading "1959 : St. Lawrence Seaway Opens"
2014 : Flint Water Crisis Begins
2014 : Flint Water Crisis Begins
Apr 25 – Apr 26 all-day
On April 25, 2014, Flint mayor Dayne Walling pushed a small black button and set in motion one of the worst disasters in Michigan history. Facing bankruptcy, and under the direction of a state-appointed emergency manager, … Continue reading "2014 : Flint Water Crisis Begins"
2014: Earl Morrall, Spartan Quarterback and Later NFL Most Valuable Player, Dies
2014: Earl Morrall, Spartan Quarterback and Later NFL Most Valuable Player, Dies
Apr 25 all-day
Michigan State football Hall of Famer Earl Morrall’s 81st birthday died on April 25, 2014. As a teenager, he led Muskegon High School to the state football title in 1951, igniting a furious recruiting battle … Continue reading "2014: Earl Morrall, Spartan Quarterback and Later NFL Most Valuable Player, Dies"
2018: Michigan Supreme Court hears case in U.P. for first time ever
2018: Michigan Supreme Court hears case in U.P. for first time ever
Apr 25 all-day
The Michigan Supreme Court has crossed the Mackinac Bridge for the first time, hearing a case at Lake Superior State Univeristy in the Upper Peninsula as part of a program called “Court Community Connections”. Wednesday … Continue reading "2018: Michigan Supreme Court hears case in U.P. for first time ever"
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1775: Michigan’s First Liquour Regulations?
1775: Michigan’s First Liquour Regulations?
Apr 26 all-day
April 26, 1775: Michigan’s first regulations on the distribution of liquor require Detroit merchants to sell no more than one glass of liqour at a time to Indians. Source : The Historical Society of Michigan
1778 : Detroit’s First British Census
1778 : Detroit’s First British Census
Apr 26 all-day
Detroit took its first census on the orders of the British commandant, Henry Hamilton, on April 26, 1778. According to this tally, Detroit’s population stood at 2,144 people, excluding military personnel and prisoners. Source : … Continue reading "1778 : Detroit’s First British Census"
1835 : Battle of Phillips Corner
1835 : Battle of Phillips Corner
Apr 26 all-day
In the early 19th century, tensions grew as both Ohio and Michigan territory claimed the Port of Maumee. Residents of the area demanded that the government resolve the border dispute. U.S. Surveyor General Edward Tiffin … Continue reading "1835 : Battle of Phillips Corner"
1865 : Lansing Residents Help Track Down John Wilkes Booth
1865 : Lansing Residents Help Track Down John Wilkes Booth
Apr 26 all-day
John Wilkes Booth assassinated President Abraham Lincoln on April 14, 1865. As the nation grieved, a hunt for the killer ensued. Luther Byron Baker’s cousin, Lafayette Baker (also from Lansing) headed the Secret Service investigation, … Continue reading "1865 : Lansing Residents Help Track Down John Wilkes Booth"
1901 : Kalamazoo Saloonkeepers Discontinue Free Lunches
1901 : Kalamazoo Saloonkeepers Discontinue Free Lunches
Apr 26 all-day
On April 26, 1901, 50 Kalamazoo saloonkeepers, who had been caught up in an expensive, out-of-control competition to attract customers by serving extravagant free lunches, signed an agreement to only serve cheese and crackers. Source: … Continue reading "1901 : Kalamazoo Saloonkeepers Discontinue Free Lunches"
1963 : MI Legislature Requires Seatbelts in All New Cars
1963 : MI Legislature Requires Seatbelts in All New Cars
Apr 26 all-day
On April 26, 1963, the Michigan Legislature presented its final approval to a bill mandating auto manufacturers to equip all cars with seat belts after Jan. 1, 1965. At the time, safety authorities estimated that … Continue reading "1963 : MI Legislature Requires Seatbelts in All New Cars"
1977 : Temperature Inversion Allows Grand Haven Residents to See Milwaukee Lights
1977 : Temperature Inversion Allows Grand Haven Residents to See Milwaukee Lights
Apr 26 all-day
On the night of April 26, 1977, the residents of Grand Haven looked westward across the relatively cold waters of Lake Michigan and saw city lights and a flashing red beacon. But the nearest urban … Continue reading "1977 : Temperature Inversion Allows Grand Haven Residents to See Milwaukee Lights"
2012 : Jim Crow Museum of Racist Memorabilia Reopens in Expanded Quarters
2012 : Jim Crow Museum of Racist Memorabilia Reopens in Expanded Quarters
Apr 26 all-day
The objects displayed in Michigan’s newest museum range from the ordinary, such as simple ashtrays and fishing lures, to the grotesque — a full-size replica of a lynching tree. But all are united by a … Continue reading "2012 : Jim Crow Museum of Racist Memorabilia Reopens in Expanded Quarters"
2021 : Census Results Mean One Less Congressional Seat for Michigan
2021 : Census Results Mean One Less Congressional Seat for Michigan
Apr 26 all-day
Michigan is one of seven states that will lose a congressional seat in 2022, dropping the representation in the U.S. House from this state to 13, as the results of the 2020 Census Apportionment were … Continue reading "2021 : Census Results Mean One Less Congressional Seat for Michigan"
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1763 : Ottawa Chief Pontiac Holds War Council Regarding Attack on Fort Detroit
1763 : Ottawa Chief Pontiac Holds War Council Regarding Attack on Fort Detroit
Apr 27 all-day
On April 27, 1763 Ottawa leader Pontiac led a historic effort to bring disparate tribes together to drive the Redcoats from their land. A council was held on the shores of the Ecorse River, about … Continue reading "1763 : Ottawa Chief Pontiac Holds War Council Regarding Attack on Fort Detroit"
1764 : Zion Lodge Number 1, First Masonic Lodge Established in Detroit
1764 : Zion Lodge Number 1, First Masonic Lodge Established in Detroit
Apr 27 all-day
 On April 27, 1764, the Provincial Grand Master of the Free and Accepted Masons in New York issued a charter to a Masonic lodge in Detroit. The Royal American Regiment’s Lieutenant John Christie was the … Continue reading "1764 : Zion Lodge Number 1, First Masonic Lodge Established in Detroit"
1833 : Steamboat Michigan Launched from Detroit
1833 : Steamboat Michigan Launched from Detroit
Apr 27 all-day
 On April 27, 1833, the steamboat Michigan, the first steamer built in Detroit and the most- advanced Great Lakes passenger vessel of its time, was launched from Detroit. Source: Mich-Again’s Day
1865 : Steamboat Sultana Explodes and Burns on Mississippi
1865 : Steamboat Sultana Explodes and Burns on Mississippi
Apr 27 all-day
 Two members of Company K, 1st Michigan Sharpshooters – Louis Miskoguon and Amos Ashkebugnekay (along with 250 others from Michigan) — were aboard the Sultana when it exploded and burned. How ironic. After surviving the … Continue reading "1865 : Steamboat Sultana Explodes and Burns on Mississippi"
1915 : Belle Isle Visitors Rescued
1915 : Belle Isle Visitors Rescued
Apr 27 all-day
On April 27, 1915, the wooden bridge to Detroit’s recreational park, Belle Isle, burned, stranding 1,000 visitors and 100 vehicles on the island. Detroit and Windsor ferry boats left their cross-river runs to evacuate the … Continue reading "1915 : Belle Isle Visitors Rescued"
1938: Football Remains Supreme at Oxford High
1938: Football Remains Supreme at Oxford High
Apr 27 all-day
On April 27, 1938, more than half of Oxford High School’s 300 students refused to attend classes and paraded through the streets carrying banners protesting the school’s decision to drop the football program for a … Continue reading "1938: Football Remains Supreme at Oxford High"
1976: Michigan Department of Corrections Does Not Have To Pay for Sex-Change Surgery
1976: Michigan Department of Corrections Does Not Have To Pay for Sex-Change Surgery
Apr 27 all-day
Michigan was not required to pay for a prisoner’s sex change operation, according to a decision by state Attorney General Frank Kelley on April 27, 1976. A query had come from state Department of Corrections … Continue reading "1976: Michigan Department of Corrections Does Not Have To Pay for Sex-Change Surgery"
2017: Who Has Never Appeared on the Floor of the Michigan Legislature?
2017: Who Has Never Appeared on the Floor of the Michigan Legislature?
Apr 27 all-day
Here’s a game: which of these political, athletic or entertainment celebrities did not appear in Michigan’s Capitol to testify or appear before a committee, a rally or a special session: Jim Brown Howard Jarvis Ted … Continue reading "2017: Who Has Never Appeared on the Floor of the Michigan Legislature?"
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1855 : Lansing Republican, Precursor to the Lansing State Journal, First Published
1855 : Lansing Republican, Precursor to the Lansing State Journal, First Published
Apr 28 all-day
The Lansing Republican, the earliest precursor to the Lansing State Journal, published its first edition on April 28, 1855. The weekly newspaper was started by Henry Barns, a strong abolitionist and a founding member of … Continue reading "1855 : Lansing Republican, Precursor to the Lansing State Journal, First Published"
1887 : Rep. Milo Dakin of Saginaw Was the First Legislator Expelled in Michigan
1887 : Rep. Milo Dakin of Saginaw Was the First Legislator Expelled in Michigan
Apr 28 all-day
I owe former Rep. Monte Geralds an apology. Mr. Geralds was expelled from the House in 1978 after being convicted of embezzling from a law client. As I have previously written, he undertook his expulsion … Continue reading "1887 : Rep. Milo Dakin of Saginaw Was the First Legislator Expelled in Michigan"
1890: William Lambert Dies, Detroit Abolitionist and Civil Rights Warrior
1890: William Lambert Dies, Detroit Abolitionist and Civil Rights Warrior
Apr 28 all-day
 Abolitionist and civil rights activist William Lambert was born in Trenton, New Jersey in 1817, the son of a manumitted father and a freeborn mother. As a young man Lambert was educated by abolitionist Quakers. … Continue reading "1890: William Lambert Dies, Detroit Abolitionist and Civil Rights Warrior"
1896: Detroit Tigers Play First Offical Game
1896: Detroit Tigers Play First Offical Game
Apr 28 all-day
On April 28, 1896, the Detroit Tigers baseball franchise in the Western League (pre-cursor of the American League) played its first official game at the corner of Michigan and Trumbull, then known as Bennett Park … Continue reading "1896: Detroit Tigers Play First Offical Game"
1897 : Apple Blossom Designated Michigan’s Official State Flower
1897 : Apple Blossom Designated Michigan’s Official State Flower
Apr 28 all-day
 William Harris of Norwood introduced the legislation proposing that the apple blossom be adopted as the official state flower of Michigan on February 9, 1897. Joint Resolution No. 10 noted that apple trees add to … Continue reading "1897 : Apple Blossom Designated Michigan’s Official State Flower"
1910 : Flint Police Order First “Paddy Wagon”
1910 : Flint Police Order First “Paddy Wagon”
Apr 28 all-day
 On April 28, 1910, the Flint Police Department ordered the first “paddy wagon”, a truck with a cage to hold prisoners, from the Buick Motor Company. Source : Historical Society of Michigan Police Paddy … Continue reading "1910 : Flint Police Order First “Paddy Wagon”"
1959 : B-47 Nuclear Bomber Flies Under Mackinac Bridge
1959 : B-47 Nuclear Bomber Flies Under Mackinac Bridge
Apr 28 all-day
 On April 28th, 1959, Air Force Captain John S. Lappo, a native of Muskegon, Michigan, flew his B-47 nuclear bomber under the Mackinac bridge connecting southern Michigan to the so-called “Upper Peninsula”. The Mackinac Bridge … Continue reading "1959 : B-47 Nuclear Bomber Flies Under Mackinac Bridge"
2009 : Sojourner Truth Statue Unveiled In U.S. Capitol
2009 : Sojourner Truth Statue Unveiled In U.S. Capitol
Apr 28 all-day
First lady Michelle Obama on Tuesday reflected on her own family’s rise from slavery to the White House as she helped to unveil a statue of abolitionist Sojourner Truth — the first black woman to … Continue reading "2009 : Sojourner Truth Statue Unveiled In U.S. Capitol"
2013 : Cobo Center Hosts Hump the Grinder’s Hair Wars 2013
2013 : Cobo Center Hosts Hump the Grinder’s Hair Wars 2013
Apr 28 all-day
Hair Wars started in the Detroit nightclubs in 1985 as an informal stage show for local hair stylists to show off their hair creations. Disc jockey David Humphries, a.k.a. “Hump The Grinder,” came up with … Continue reading "2013 : Cobo Center Hosts Hump the Grinder’s Hair Wars 2013"
2019 : Federal Judge, Civil Rights Icon Damon Keith Dies
2019 : Federal Judge, Civil Rights Icon Damon Keith Dies
Apr 28 all-day
Damon Keith, a grandson of slaves who rose from humble beginnings in Detroit to become an internationally-revered champion for justice and a much-loved father-figure who launched countless legal careers, died Sunday morning at his home … Continue reading "2019 : Federal Judge, Civil Rights Icon Damon Keith Dies"
2019 : Pat Sajak, Wheel of Fortune Host, Named Hillsdale College Chairman of the Board
2019 : Pat Sajak, Wheel of Fortune Host, Named Hillsdale College Chairman of the Board
Apr 28 all-day
 Longtime “Wheel of Fortune” host Pat Sajak is spinning his way up the ladder at Hillsdale College, and has landed in the chairman’s seat. The small liberal arts college about 60 miles southeast of Battle … Continue reading "2019 : Pat Sajak, Wheel of Fortune Host, Named Hillsdale College Chairman of the Board"
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1835 : Border War With Ohio Flares
1835 : Border War With Ohio Flares
Apr 29 all-day
On April 29, 1835, the Detroit Free Press carried an article (top of column three) describing Michigan militia efforts to confront Ohio surveyers as the battle for the southern portion of Michigan heats up. “Col. … Continue reading "1835 : Border War With Ohio Flares"
1892 : Successful Submarine Trial on River Rouge
1892 : Successful Submarine Trial on River Rouge
Apr 29 all-day
George Collin Baker of Chicago came to Detroit in January of 1892 with a detailed agenda. He checked into the Cadillac Hotel and set to work perfecting his plans to try out his wooden submarine … Continue reading "1892 : Successful Submarine Trial on River Rouge"
1898 : John Philip Sousa Band Plays Stars and Stripes Forever in Detroit
1898 : John Philip Sousa Band Plays Stars and Stripes Forever in Detroit
Apr 29 all-day
 On this day, the John Phillip Sousa Band played his new march, Stars and Stripes Forever at the corner of Larner and Brush streets in Detroit. Source : Historical Society of Michigan Also see John … Continue reading "1898 : John Philip Sousa Band Plays Stars and Stripes Forever in Detroit"
1950: Debbie Stabenow Born, First Female U.S. Senator From Michigan
1950: Debbie Stabenow Born, First Female U.S. Senator From Michigan
Apr 29 all-day
Deborah Ann Stabenow ; née Greer, born April 29, 1950) is an American politician serving as the senior United States senator from Michigan, a seat she has held since 2001. A member of the Democratic … Continue reading "1950: Debbie Stabenow Born, First Female U.S. Senator From Michigan"
2004 : Last Oldsmobile Alero Rolls Off Line in Lansing
2004 : Last Oldsmobile Alero Rolls Off Line in Lansing
Apr 29 all-day
On April 29, 2004 the final Oldsmobile drove off the line at General Motors’ Lansing Car Assembly plant. That dark cherry Alero sedan represented the send-off to a nameplate founded in the city more than … Continue reading "2004 : Last Oldsmobile Alero Rolls Off Line in Lansing"
2011 : Michigan Adopts New State Flag
2011 : Michigan Adopts New State Flag
Apr 29 all-day
The Flag of the State of Michigan depicts the state’s coat-of-arms on a dark blue field, as set forth by Michigan state law. The state coat of arms depicts a light blue shield, upon which … Continue reading "2011 : Michigan Adopts New State Flag"
2018: President Trump Visits Michigan, Endorses Funding for Soo Locks
2018: President Trump Visits Michigan, Endorses Funding for Soo Locks
Apr 29 all-day
Since Macomb County helped deliver the presidency to Donald Trump, he decided to return the favor Saturday night. He came to Washington Township to tout his record since being inaugurated in 2017 and urge a huge … Continue reading "2018: President Trump Visits Michigan, Endorses Funding for Soo Locks"
2020 : Governor’s Stay at Home Executive Order Declared Legal
2020 : Governor’s Stay at Home Executive Order Declared Legal
Apr 29 all-day
A Michigan judge found that while Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s stay-at-home order does “temporary harm” to the constitutional rights of Michigan residents, the harm doesn’t outweigh the public health risk posed by the coronavirus outbreak.\ Steve … Continue reading "2020 : Governor’s Stay at Home Executive Order Declared Legal"
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1824 : Congress Appropriates $10,000 To Survey Road Between Detroit and Chicago
1824 : Congress Appropriates $10,000 To Survey Road Between Detroit and Chicago
Apr 30 all-day
Congress appropriated $10,000 to survey a road between Detroit and Chicago. The Territorial Road or Great Sauk Trail is now US12. Source : Historical Society of Michigan
1871 : Fielding Yost Born, Future University of Michigan Football Coach
1871 : Fielding Yost Born, Future University of Michigan Football Coach
Apr 30 all-day
 Yost in 1902 Fielding Harris Yost (April 30, 1871 – August 20, 1946) was an American football player, coach and college athletics administrator. He served as the head football coach at: Ohio Wesleyan University, the … Continue reading "1871 : Fielding Yost Born, Future University of Michigan Football Coach"
1921 : Annie Edson Taylor Dies
1921 : Annie Edson Taylor Dies
Apr 30 all-day
 Annie Edson Taylor, a Niagara Falls daredevil, died on this day. On October 24, 1901, Annie Edson Taylor, a teacher of dance and physical culture in Bay City, Michigan, became the first person and the … Continue reading "1921 : Annie Edson Taylor Dies"
1925 : Governor Alexander Groesbeck Requires 5-Day Waiting Period for Weddings
1925 : Governor Alexander Groesbeck Requires 5-Day Waiting Period for Weddings
Apr 30 all-day
To the chagrin of St. Joseph, Michigan, Governor Alexander Groesbeck announced on April 30, 1925 he was putting an end to instant marriages in Michigan, requiring a five day waiting period after a license was … Continue reading "1925 : Governor Alexander Groesbeck Requires 5-Day Waiting Period for Weddings"
1935 : Depression Era Walkathon Concludes in Jackson
1935 : Depression Era Walkathon Concludes in Jackson
Apr 30 all-day
How long will someone walk for $1,000 in cash? During the Depression, it was 88 days, four hours, 20 minutes and 30 seconds. It began on January 31; it concluded on April 30, 1935, more … Continue reading "1935 : Depression Era Walkathon Concludes in Jackson"
1954 : Detroit Metropolitan Airport’s First Passenger Flight Takes Off
1954 : Detroit Metropolitan Airport’s First Passenger Flight Takes Off
Apr 30 all-day
On April 30, 1954, following several ceremonial speeches, a London-bound DC6B “Great Lakes Clipper” sped down a lone runway past a skinny control tower and climbed into sunny skies as the first passenger flight to … Continue reading "1954 : Detroit Metropolitan Airport’s First Passenger Flight Takes Off"
1967 : Detroit’s Belle Isle Love-In
1967 : Detroit’s Belle Isle Love-In
Apr 30 all-day
 Movie Clip John Sinclair, Joe Mulkey and Billy Reid of the Detroit Artists Workshop after obtaining the license to hold the Love-In from the City of Detroit at Police Headquarters at 1300 Beaubien in the … Continue reading "1967 : Detroit’s Belle Isle Love-In"
1980 : State of Michigan Bails Out Chrysler
1980 : State of Michigan Bails Out Chrysler
Apr 30 all-day
The state loaned the nearly bankrupt Chrysler Corporation $150,000,000 in an attempt to save the jobs of thousands of Chrysler workers. With union cooperation and new designs including the K-car and the minivan, Chrysler returned … Continue reading "1980 : State of Michigan Bails Out Chrysler"
1992 : Arthur Ashe receives honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Kalamazoo College
1992 : Arthur Ashe receives honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Kalamazoo College
Apr 30 all-day
 Only weeks after the news broke that tennis star Arthur Ashe had contracted the HIV virus as a result of blood transfusions in the early 1980s, he came to Kalamazoo to receive an honorary Doctor … Continue reading "1992 : Arthur Ashe receives honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Kalamazoo College"
2013 : Spartan Men’s Tennis Team Invited to NCAA Tournament For First Time
2013 : Spartan Men’s Tennis Team Invited to NCAA Tournament For First Time
Apr 30 all-day
The Spartans received an at-large bid to the NCAA tournament Tuesday evening and will face Tulsa in the first round on Friday, May 10 in Waco, Texas. It marks MSU’s first appearance in the 64-team … Continue reading "2013 : Spartan Men’s Tennis Team Invited to NCAA Tournament For First Time"
2020: Gun-Toting Protestors Rush Michigan Capitol
2020: Gun-Toting Protestors Rush Michigan Capitol
Apr 30 all-day
 A militia group stands in front of the governor’s office after armed protesters occupied the State Capitol building during a vote to approve the extension of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s stay-at-home order in Lansing, Mich., in … Continue reading "2020: Gun-Toting Protestors Rush Michigan Capitol"
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