On June 3 in history, the U.S. Army was created, astronaut Edward White completed America’s first spacewalk, Graceland opened to tourists, and Mike Ilitch bought the Detroit Red Wings. (READ MORE)
June 1, 1879: The Day Grand Rapids Fired the Boys and Hired the Girls
Grand Rapids telephone companies replaced boy switchboard operators with women in 1879 after complaints that the boys were leaving their posts to play marbles.
June 2 in History: The Mackinac Massacre, Radio Patent, and Babe Ruth Retires
On June 2 in history, Native Americans captured Fort Michilimackinac, Michigan adopted its Great Seal, Marconi patented the radio, Babe Ruth retired, and Ken Jennings began his “Jeopardy!” streak. (READ MORE)
May 31 in History: “Seinfeld” Debuts, the Model T Ends, and Grand Rapids Rebuilds
On May 31 in history, Ford built its last Model T, “Seinfeld” premiered, the Trans-Alaska Pipeline was completed, and Grand Rapids residents united to rebuild after the 2020 riots. (READ MORE)
When Pinball Machines Were Feared in Michigan
Pinball machines were once considered dangerous gambling devices in Michigan and across America. Here’s the strange history behind the pinball panic.
The Farms Michigan Once Used for the Poor
Before modern welfare systems, Michigan counties operated “poor farms” where struggling residents lived and worked. Here’s the forgotten history behind them.
May 1, 1926: How Henry Ford Helped Create the 40-Hour Workweek
On May 1, 1926, Henry Ford introduced the five-day, 40-hour workweek—an idea that reshaped American labor and started in Michigan.