Michigan History Moment

Michigan History Moment explores the historical significance of Edward George Kingsford, his establishment of the Kingsford Chemical Company and his role in the development of the town named after him in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. ___________________________ Produced by Michigan History Magazine

This episode tells the story of Harold Loud, a Michigan observation pilot during World War I whose service often went unnoticed, when compared to famous fighter aces. Through dangerous missions and close calls during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, Loud demonstrated courage and dedication in one of the war’s most challenging roles. ___________________________ Produced by Michigan History Magazine

In this episode, listeners learn how the telegraph changed communication in Michigan during the 1800s, allowing messages to travel almost instantly instead of taking hours or days. The discussion explores the growth of telegraph networks across the state and how this groundbreaking technology transformed the way people connected with one another. ___________________________ Produced by Michigan Hi...

This episode explores the rich history and quiet charm of Bois Blanc Island, a hidden gem tucked into the Straits of Mackinac. Once home to Indigenous fishing camps and later valued for its timber, farming, and distinctive basswood trees, the island has played many important roles over the centuries. Today, Bois Blanc remains a peaceful ferry-accessible getaway where visitors can experience both n...

This episode shares a powerful story from 1942 at Michigan State Normal College, where eight college women preparing to become teachers faced discrimination when an African American classmate was excluded from shared housing. In an inspiring act of solidarity, the seven white students refused to participate unless their classmate was included, leading the college to allow an integrated living arra...

On this episode, explore the the tragic story of Charlotte native Belle Naish and her fateful journey aboard the RMS Lusitania with her husband, Theodore, which was infamously torpedoed during World War I. Despite this devastation and personal loss, Belle’s experience reflects remarkable resilience and generosity. ___________________________ Produced by Michigan History Magazine

Orlando Bolivar Wilcox, a United States Military Academy graduate, led the 1st Michigan Volunteer Infantry during the American Civil War and showed notable bravery at the First Battle of Bull Run. Though a Medal of Honor recipient and writer, he remains relatively overlooked. His novel, published as Major March, reflects his experiences and adds depth to his legacy. ___________________________ Pro...

This episode shares how the Fordson tractor helped change farming around the world, especially in the Soviet Union. The Fordson tractor was created by Henry Ford to make farming easier and faster. After the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917, the Soviet Union needed better tools, so they ordered many tractors and even started building their own. In the end, the Fordson became a symbol of big change and...

This episode explores the tumultuous offshoot of the Ku Klux Klan, The Black Legion, which emerged in the Midwest during the 1920s and promoted violence against marginalized groups, including African Americans, Catholics, and Jews. At its peak between 1933 and 1936, the organization carried out acts of arson and murder, often targeting union members and others they labeled undesirable. Public outr...

This episode offers an insightful look into Michigan's ecological history, particularly focusing on the White Pine Era and its ramifications. As logging operations ravaged the landscape, the narrative shifts to the inspiring figure of Bud Overholzer, who, rather than succumbing to despair over the environmental loss, chose to channel his creativity into crafting the Shrine of the Pines. Amy Wagena...

This episode revisits the harrowing heat wave that engulfed Michigan in July 1936. It was a climatic phenomenon that resulted in unprecedented temperatures and tragic consequences, with an average temperature soaring to nearly 102 degrees across the week. Desperate measures had to be taken by residents in an attempt to escape the oppressive heat, from seeking solace in air-conditioned movie theate...

Mackinac Island is renowned for its captivating lilacs, which erupt in a stunning display of color and fragrance each June, enchanting visitors for a brief yet glorious period. Although tour guides often romanticize the origins of these blossoms, they are not indigenous to the island or even to North America; rather, they were introduced by settlers in the mid-18th century from their native region...

This episode delves into the harrowing narrative of German prisoners of war during World War II, who were working the sugar beat fields in Blissfield, Michigan. It recounts the tragic events surrounding a fatal accident that claimed the lives of several prisoners, highlighting their experiences and the aftermath of their untimely deaths. ___________________________ Produced by Michigan History Mag...

The Copper Country strike of 1913 in Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula marked a significant moment in labor history, culminating in a tragic event known as the Italian Hall disaster. This episode delves into the complexities of labor relations, the struggles of miners, and the societal impacts of industrialization in early 20th-century America. ___________________________ Produced by Michigan History...

The creation of the Lone Ranger, an iconic figure in American culture, was conceived during the Great Depression, a time when hope was desperately needed. Introduced by George Trendle and Francis Stryker in 1933 at WXYZ Radio in Detroit, The Lone Ranger's character has unwavering morality, a commitment to justice, and is a symbol of resilience and idealism. ___________________________ Produced&nbs...

The episode highlights the historical significance of muskrat as a sustenance option during times of scarcity in Michigan, particularly during the War of 1812. The episode recounts the legislative efforts to promote muskrat hunting and the cultural events surrounding it, including annual dinners that cemented its place in Michigan's culinary landscape. ___________________________ Produced by&...

This episode highlights the ill-fated expedition undertaken by Dr. William C. Ransom and the Trip around the World company, which set sail in 1894 aboard the Great Lakes schooner George L. Wren. Initially envisioned as a grand three-year voyage across the globe, the enterprise was marred by deceit and mismanagement, culminating in Ransom's disappearance, betraying his fellow adventurers. Instead o...

The episode explores the historical rivalries among Michigan towns vying for the designation of county seat. As a title that conferred not only prestige, but also economic prosperity, various towns engaged in fierce competition. ___________________________ Produced by Michigan History Magazine

Sonny Elliott, a beloved figure in Southeast Michigan, captivated audiences with his engaging weather reports for over six decades. His tenure as a broadcaster was marked by not only his meteorological insights but also his penchant for humor and relatable anecdotes. However, few were aware of his harrowing experience as a prisoner of war during World War II, where he served as a morale officer. F...

Michigan's white pine forests are thriving today thanks to the life and legacy of Karen Hartwick, whose remarkable donation of forested land, serves as a compelling narrative of love, loss, and conservation. Karen's father, Nels Mickelson, was a Danish immigrant who forged a path in the logging industry upon his arrival in America in 1866. His success provided economic opportunities during a trans...

Initially sent to Havana in 1895 under the pretense of protecting American interests, the USS Maine met with disaster when an explosion claimed the lives of 266 crew members. Only William Madison of Bay City would survive. Despite an investigation revealing that coal dust ultimately lead to the explosion, the incident became a rallying cry for the United States during the Spanish-American War. ___...

In 1917, towards the latter stages of World War I, Haller's Blue Army of Poland was formed under the command of General Jozef Haller von Hallenburg. With some hailing from all round Michigan, 20,000 Polish-American men would answer the call to fight for Polish Independence. ___________________________ Produced by  Michigan History Magazine

Take a trip this episode to Grand Hotel, established on scenic Mackinac Island and an iconic focal point throughout Michigan's history. ___________________________ Produced by  Michigan History Magazine

The episode explores the significant contributions of Michigan's Odawa men during World War I, highlighting their brave service despite the injustices they faced as non-citizens. ___________________________ Produced by  Michigan History Magazine

This episode dives into the origins of Gerber Baby Food, an iconic brand that emerged from a moment of domestic challenge in 1927. Dorothy Gerber's frustration in preparing pureed peas for her daughter prompted her husband, Daniel Gerber, to confront the difficulty of the task himself, ultimately leading to a pivotal inquiry regarding the feasibility of pureeing peas at their canning plant. ______...