Thumbing Through the Archives

Dive into the pages of Michigan’s history with Thumbing Through the Archives. This week's episode is all about the Edmund Fitzgerald. As one of the most popular ships to have sailed the Great Lakes, there is plenty to learn about this marvel. Buckle up and grab a snack (or two) as we uncover its mysteries and histor(y)-ies.

Just where is a church caretaker meant to turn when he discovers the fright of his life? Filled with tales of hypnotism and corpse burning, the murder that occurred at Rattle Run is a story not for the faint of heart. We advise our listeners to proceed with caution if they find discussion about such topics distressing.

Continuing our deep dive into the case of the "Dying Sparlings," we’re wrapping up the official investigation concerning (and trial for) the death of the family’s youngest son. Will justice be served, or will the lack of answers forever cloud public perceptions? Join us as we unravel the Sparling family's ties to a certain town doctor and his plans to bring about their end.

Discover the origins of one of the Thumb's greatest but relatively unknown mysteries: the Sparling Murders. This case spanned the course of several years during the 1900s, but its effects lasted much longer. Were the deaths of multiple family members a mere coincidence? Or, was there something more devious going on behind the scenes?

You might think you know everything there is to know about the Thumb's most famous ghost story, but do you really? Just who was Gundella the Witch, and what role did one of Forester's most prominent businessmen have in popularizing the legend of Minnie Quay? Find out the answers--and much more--on our first episode of Thumbing Through the Archives.