What? The border between Michigan and Indiana is still unsettled? How can this be? Join Chuck and I as we investigate this mysterious lack of demarcation. What’s life like living along this border? Why hasn’t this border been officially surveyed since 1827? How has surveyor, Jack Owens, built a legacy? […]
History and Culture
91 posts
“Pere Marquette” names a river, a city, a railroad, several parks, a university and two high schools. Who was Pere Jacques Marquette and why are there so many places named for him? Why have some of his bones recently been relocated? Join Chuck and I as we investigate this fascinating […]
There’s a secret piece of history in the Mackinaw Straits! Join Chuck and I as we explore a boulder. Yes, you know I love to collect rocks, but this boulder couldn’t fit in anyone’s pocket. This serious stone has made a mark in history as an aid to navigation. But […]
Many of you are familiar with the settlement of Fayette, in Michigan’s upper peninsula. My husband, Chuck, and I uncovered a True Tales story which painted the picture of moral mishaps in the Fayette community. The residents had countered these ill behaviors with surprising human strength. Join us as we […]
The Great Lakes sea monster, Michepezhoo of Lake Superior, has threaded its way through centuries of legends and remains the center of Ojibwa culture. My husband, Chuck, and I journeyed to Lake Superior Provincial Park in Ontario, Canada to see several ancient pictographs along the Agawa Rock, which included Michepezhoo. […]
Just south of Saranac in Ionia County sits the first roadside table. Allan Williams’ vision in 1929 has enhanced our travels even today. Join my husband, Chuck, and I as we stop at this site and learn more about how a single individual can make a difference for our nation. […]
The Battle Creek Cereal War had been a trifecta between the Kellogg brothers; John and William along with a previous patient, C.W. Post. Join my husband, Chuck, and I as we learn about this cereal war and how these men have shaped our nation’s morning habits. The First Cereals For […]
McCourtie Park Have you ever been inside an authentic speakeasy? Join my husband, Chuck, and I as we were given a spontaneous tour of the Rathskeller complete with bullet proof doors, secret underground parking and a full bar. On the same property we strolled McCourtie Park where seventeen faux bois […]
A wise horse, Old Sam, who had served in the Civil War, now has plaques and a grave marker in Coldwater, Michigan where he’d been born. Old Sam’s story is one of dedication and bravery. How did he become a Civil War hero? Where is Old Sam buried? His burial […]
What’s a “Boatel?” Well, one can spend the night aboard an original 1931 railcar ferry, The S.S. City of Milwaukee. A “Boatel” is a living history hotel with water underneath! I had no idea that Manistee, Michigan housed an original 1931 Grand Trunk Railroad ferry steamship. Join my husband, Chuck, […]