Michigan Hidden History

Follow Michigan Hidden History
Share on
Copy link to clipboard

We all see the historical markers in the great state of Michigan so what do they mean and what significance did Michigan play in US history

Tharan Komarraju Suvarna


    • Jan 25, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 16m AVG DURATION
    • 119 EPISODES


    Search for episodes from Michigan Hidden History with a specific topic:

    Latest episodes from Michigan Hidden History

    St. Paul Lutheran Church: When Your Church Started as an Orphanage and You Built It Yourself

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 25, 2026 16:09


    Discover the inspiring story of St. Paul Church in Royal Oak, a beacon of faith and community in Michigan. This episode explores the church's rich history, from its founding to its role as a spiritual and cultural hub. Learn about the dedicated leaders and parishioners who have shaped its mission and the impactful programs that serve the local community. Join us as we delve into the traditions, challenges, and triumphs of St. Paul Church, highlighting its enduring legacy and vibrant presence in Royal Oak.

    The Detroit Zoo: Elephants, Ethics, and the World's Largest Penguin Palace

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 18, 2026 21:21


    Step into the wild with our latest episode exploring the fascinating world of the zoo. Discover the history and evolution of zoos, from their origins as royal menageries to modern conservation centers. This episode delves into the role zoos play in wildlife preservation, education, and research, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of maintaining diverse animal habitats. Join us as we uncover the stories behind the animals and the dedicated professionals who care for them, offering a glimpse into the complex ecosystem of a zoo.

    The Saginaw Trail: Michigan's Most Important Road- Then and Now

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 11, 2026 12:35


    Conclude our exploration of the Saginaw Trail with Part 3, focusing on its modern-day significance and the lasting impact it has had on Michigan's cultural and economic landscape. This episode examines how the trail has been preserved and commemorated, highlighting its role in connecting communities and fostering regional identity. Discover the stories of preservation efforts and the trail's influence on contemporary Michigan, as we reflect on the enduring legacy of this historic pathway. Join us for the final chapter in our journey along the Saginaw Trail.

    The Saginaw Trail: Michigan's Most Important Road- From Dirt Road to Boulevard.

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 4, 2026 16:45


    Continue the journey with Part 2 of our exploration of the Saginaw Trail, as we delve deeper into its historical significance and the pivotal role it played in Michigan's expansion. This episode focuses on the trail's transformation during the 19th century, highlighting its impact on settlement patterns, economic growth, and cultural exchanges. Discover the stories of the pioneers and settlers who traveled the trail, and learn how it facilitated the movement of people and goods, shaping the region's development. Join us as we uncover the enduring legacy of the Saginaw Trail in Michigan's history.

    The Saginaw Trail: Michigan's Most Important Road- The Ancient Highway.

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 21, 2025 16:01


    Embark on a journey through history with Part 1 of our exploration of the Saginaw Trail, a historic route that has played a crucial role in Michigan's development. This episode delves into the origins of the trail, tracing its roots back to the indigenous peoples who first traversed it. Discover how the trail evolved over time, becoming a vital artery for trade, travel, and communication. Join us as we uncover the stories of the people and events that shaped the early days of the Saginaw Trail, setting the stage for its enduring legacy in Michigan's history.

    The Starr Family: Cowbells, Bricks, and the Spirits That Never Left

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 14, 2025 15:51


    Uncover the fascinating history of the Starr family, a prominent name in Michigan's past. Known for their entrepreneurial spirit and community involvement, the Starrs have left an indelible mark on the region. This episode explores their journey from humble beginnings to becoming influential figures in local business and society. Discover the stories of their successes, challenges, and the legacy they continue to build in Michigan. Join us as we delve into the lives of the Starr family and their lasting impact on the community.

    Fred A. Baker: The Lawyer from Holly Who Built the Bronx

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 7, 2025 13:44


    Dive into the intriguing life of Fred A. Baker, a pivotal figure in Michigan's history. Known for his contributions to the development of Petoskey and his role in the local economy, Baker's legacy is one of innovation and community impact. Explore his journey from a local businessman to a key player in the region's growth, and discover how his efforts helped shape the cultural and economic landscape of Northern Michigan. This episode uncovers the lesser-known stories of Baker's life and his enduring influence on the community.

    Petoskey: Sunrise, Stones, and the Stories We Almost Forgot

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2025 23:13


    Explore the captivating history of Petoskey, Michigan, a city rich with stories of resilience and transformation. From its roots as a key location for the Ottawa people to its development into a bustling resort town, Petoskey has been shaped by diverse influences. Discover the tales of Chief Ignatius Petoskey, the city's namesake, and the impact of the railroad on its growth. Uncover the hidden corners of this vibrant city, where history and modernity coexist, and learn about the cultural and natural treasures that make Petoskey a unique destination.

    The Perry Hotel: Fireproof Dreams and the Last Dance in Petoskey

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 16, 2025 20:26


    Discover the enduring legacy of the Perry Hotel in Petoskey, Michigan, a historic gem that has stood the test of time. From its creation by a dentist-turned-hotelier to its role as a vibrant social hub, the Perry Hotel's story is one of resilience, community, and charm. Join us as we explore its fascinating history, including connections to Ernest Hemingway and its survival through economic shifts and wars. This episode uncovers why the Perry Hotel remains a beloved landmark and a living piece of Petoskey's history.

    Little Traverse Bay: Petoskey Stones, Dry Forests, and the Chief Who Named a City

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2025 25:36


    Little Traverse Bay wasn't always a bay. In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, we explore how ancient seas, glaciers, and fossilized coral shaped northern Michigan, and how the Odawa people built thriving communities along its shores. From Petoskey stones and crooked trees to railroads, resorts, and modern fishing rights, this is the deep, surprising story of the bay that helped name a city.

    The Charlevoix Chronicles: Sacred Stones, Secret Missions, and Survival

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 2, 2025 20:03


    Charlevoix isn't just sailboats and sunsets—it's 12,000 years of incredible history hiding beneath the Instagram filters.In this episode, we're diving deep into the layered past of one of Michigan's most scenic towns. From ancient Anishnabek trade routes and sacred Spirit Rocks to a French Jesuit on a secret mission for the Crown, Charlevoix has seen it all.We'll meet Chief Louis McSauba, who fought presidents and won (sort of). We'll visit Greensky Hill Mission Church, built with materials hauled across the water in canoes. And yes, we'll talk about that gold-plated stove that toured Europe like a 19th-century rock band.This is a story of resilience, adaptation, and a community that refused to disappear—even when the world tried to erase them. So grab your favorite Michigan beverage and join us for the full story of Charlevoix: the one they don't put on the postcards.Topics covered:The Anishnabek and the Three Fires ConfederacyBig Rock (Kitchi-ossining) and sacred travel routesTreaty battles and the fight to stayPierre François Xavier de Charlevoix (Jesuit priest, possible spy, travel blogger)Chief Louis McSauba and the legacy of resistanceBoarding schools, legal victories, and modern reconciliationThe Gold Stove (yes, really)Perfect for history lovers, Michigan natives, and anyone who's ever wondered what lies beneath the surface of a beautiful lakeside town.

    The Bell, the Glass, and the Stick Style: Charlevoix's Hidden Church Gem

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 26, 2025 7:32


    Before Charlevoix was known for yachts and fudge shops, it had a half-ton bell, stained glass older than your grandma, and a church that dared to rock Stick Style architecture. In this episode, we uncover the story behind the First Congregational Church, built in 1885, expanded with bake sale proceeds, and still standing proud. From the women who raised the funds to the Michigan copper in its bell, this church isn't just a place of worship; it's a living museum of northern Michigan grit.

    Decades of Cheese: The Green Bay Packers from the '60s to Now

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 19, 2025 7:24


    In Part 2 of our Lambeau love-hate saga, we break down the Green Bay Packers decade by decade. From Lombardi's golden age to the Brett Favre rollercoaster and the Aaron Rodgers ayahuasca years, this team has seen it all — dynasties, disasters, and… Jordan Love?We cover every Super Bowl appearance, every weird playoff loss, and every time the Packers made Lions fans cry (again). It's football history. It's painful. It's oddly impressive. And yes — it's all happening in a town with fewer people than your average Costco on a Sunday.

    Lambeau Field: The Frozen Cathedral of Football

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 12, 2025 4:26


    Before there were luxury boxes and retractable roofs, there was Lambeau where the turf is frozen, the cheese is sacred, and the fans never sit down. In this episode, we take a walk through the history of the oldest stadium in the NFL. From Curly to Lombardi, ice bowls to beer brats, this is the story of how a small-town team built a legendary home right in the middle of someone's neighborhood.And yes, as a Lions fan, I can admit it… Lambeau is kinda magical. Annoying, but magical.

    The Minnesota Vikings: Almost Legends, Always Purple

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 5, 2025 10:12


    From the days of Fran Tarkenton to the Minneapolis Miracle, the Vikings have always been the bridesmaid, never the bride and as a Lions fan, I'm not letting them forget it. In this episode, we break down the team that's built dynasties without rings, conquered divisions without trophies, and broken more hearts than a Scandinavian soap opera. Get ready for horns, heartbreak, and a whole lot of shade (with love… sort of).

    Whistles and Waterfalls: The Story of Minnehaha Depot & the Minnesota Central Railway

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2025 7:51


    All aboard for a trip back in time! This episode explores how a tiny yellow depot near a waterfall became a rail hub for adventurers, lovebirds, and curious tourists. From the boom of 19th-century rail to the quiet hum of preservation efforts, we trace the legacy of the Minnesota Central Railway and the charming “Princess Depot” that stood at its heart.

    Badlands National Park – Part 2: Bombs, Bison, and a Big Mess

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2025 7:50


    We're back in the Badlands but this time, it's Cold War missile silos, bison rescues, and modern-day drama. From military secrets to ecological restoration, this episode digs into the messier chapters of Badlands history.

    “Badlands National Park – Part 1: Dirt, Dinosaurs, and Displacement”

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 14, 2025 5:41


    Before the missile silos and prairie dogs, the Badlands were home to mammoths, mosasaurs, and mighty storms of U.S. government ambition. In this first part of our journey through Badlands National Park, we go back—way back—to ancient seas, fossil fields, and the earliest human inhabitants. We dig through layers of sediment and sovereignty, touching on the Lakota, the fur traders, and even a short cameo by Thomas Jefferson (because of course). It's a land of bone beds and broken treaties, where every rock tells a story—and some of those rocks used to be sharks.Strap on your hiking boots (and maybe your moral compass), because this is the Wild West before it was even west.

    Mount Rushmore: Carving Controversy and Legacy

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 7, 2025 9:43


    Join us as we explore the creation of Mount Rushmore, from its sacred beginnings in the Black Hills to its transformation into a national icon. Discover the stories behind the monumental faces, the controversies surrounding its construction, and the ongoing debates about its cultural impact.

    Bighorn Canyon: Untamed Beauty and Hidden Histories

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 31, 2025 10:09


    It is my 30th birthday!!! Explore the underrated wonders of Bighorn Canyon, where epic geology meets ancient history. Discover the stories of indigenous tribes, legendary trappers, and the indomitable Caroline Lockhart. From wild horses to dramatic cliffs, this hidden gem offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural intrigue.

    Grand Teton National Park: Peaks, Pioneers, and Preservation

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 24, 2025 10:16


    Join us as we explore the dramatic landscapes and rich history of Grand Teton National Park. From its geological wonders and indigenous heritage to the bold conservation efforts of John D. Rockefeller Jr., discover the stories that shaped this iconic American landscape.

    Yellowstone Part 2: From Wilderness to National Treasure

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2025 11:53


    In Part 2 of our Yellowstone Saga, we explore the journey from wilderness to the world's first national park. Discover the stories of early explorers, the creation of the National Park Service, and the ongoing efforts to preserve Yellowstone's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

    Yellowstone Part 1: Uncovering Ancient Roots and Early Explorations

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2025 8:22


    Join us on Michigan Hidden History, On The Road Edition, as we explore Yellowstone National Park's fascinating past. From its ancient tribal roots and obsidian trade to its establishment as the world's first national park, discover the stories that shaped this iconic landscape. Uncover the challenges of preserving its natural beauty while honoring its rich cultural heritage.

    Lahood Park: Mass, Motels, and the Men of the CCC

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2025 8:02


    This week on Michigan Hidden History: Road Trip Edition, we make an unexpected stop at LaHood Park, Montana—where Catholic missionaries, 1930s road trippers, and Civilian Conservation Corps boys all left their mark. From Father De Smet saying Mass on the frontier to a gas station-turned-hotel with a side of New Deal patriotism, this episode has everything: old-timey maps, secret missions, burned-down hotels, and 25-dollar-a-month government jobs that came with free meatloaf.

    O! The Joy: Lewis & Clark Hit the Road

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2025 8:18


    In Part 2, the expedition begins! Join the Corps of Discovery as they eat their way across 8,000 miles, shoot at grizzly bears, hold intertribal talent shows, and search for the Pacific—while surviving on dried meat and questionable water. We follow them from Missouri to the ocean and back, plus take a look at what happened after the journey, including mysterious deaths, political drama, and what the founding fathers never told you about unpaid expense reports.

    Before the Trail: Lewis & Clark's Wild Origins

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 20, 2025 7:10


    In Part 1 of our Lewis & Clark adventure, we rewind the clock to meet Meriwether Lewis and William Clark before they became the dynamic duo of westward exploration. From whiskey rebellions to battles with Little Turtle, and one very aggressive tornado full of trees, we trace their wild early years and the not-so-smooth road that led to the greatest road trip in American history. Spoiler: It includes government bureaucracy, failed promotions, and a whole lot of moccasins.

    Whistles, Flags, and One Very Popular President: McKinley Comes to South Dakota

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2025 7:20


    In this star-spangled stop on Michigan Hidden History: Road Trip Edition, we dive into the life and legacy of William McKinley—the Civil War vet turned tariff-loving president—who made history as the first U.S. president to visit South Dakota. From economic policy and war with Spain to a full-on parade in Sioux Falls, this episode covers McKinley's rise, his visit, and why the town practically exploded with patriotic bunting when his train rolled in.

    The Oldest Teenager in Sioux Falls: Hazel O'Connor

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2025 6:17


    In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, we head to Sioux Falls to meet Hazel O'Connor—a woman who raised three kids, ran half the town's civic groups, and still found time to crack jokes in a fake Scandinavian accent. From PTA meetings to historical preservation and everything in between, Hazel proved one person really can do it all—and have fun doing it.

    Rock Solid: Sioux Quartzite and the Billion-Year-Old Superstar

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2025 5:18


    On this stop of Michigan Hidden History, we uncover the billion-year-old superstar of the Midwest—Sioux Quartzite. From ancient rivers to downtown buildings, this pink powerhouse has seen it all. Join us for a rock-solid ride through geology, history, and why this stone still steals the spotlight.

    Coldwater Unfrozen: Horses, Cigars & Opera (Oh My!)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2025 7:43


    In this season finale of Michigan Hidden History, we plunge into Coldwater, Michigan's surprisingly sizzling past. Learn how a Potawatomi paradise became a Union Army equestrian HQ (3,000 horses, anyone?), then morphed into a cigar-smoke capital turning out 13 million stogies a year. We'll sneak into the historic Tibbits Opera House for a dose of Victorian high culture, then grab a fishing pole and explore 112 lakes that make Coldwater the angler's dream. It's a rollicking ride through cannons, railroads, electric lights—and a town that refuses to stay “cold.” Tune in for the frosty facts and the fiery fun!

    The Charm of Quincy: From Log Cabins to Electric Lights

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2025 5:39


    In this week's Michigan Hidden History, we're traveling to the charming village of Quincy, Michigan. Settled in the 1830s, Quincy's journey from a small logging settlement to a vibrant, brick-lined community is a tale of railroad success, civic pride, and small-town hustle. Learn about the bold citizens who fought to keep Quincy on the map and the transformative events that shaped its development—like the advent of electricity and waterworks. Tune in for the story of a village where tradition meets progress, and discover how Quincy's legacy still shines brightly today.

    “Portraits, Paint, and Persistence: The Story of the H.C. Lewis Art Gallery”

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2025 6:40


    In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, we step into the quiet charm of the H.C. Lewis Art Gallery, where small-town soul meets fine art flair. Nestled in the heart of Coldwater, this gallery honors the legacy of local artist H.C. Lewis, a man who believed every brushstroke told a story—and sometimes, that story involved a cow or two. From stunning landscapes to quirky community portraits, we explore how this hidden gem became a cultural beacon for Branch County. So grab your beret (or your best flannel), and join us for a colorful dive into Coldwater's creative side.

    From Wool Mills to the Governor's Mansion: The Cyrus G. Luce Story”

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2025 8:59


    In this week's Michigan Hidden History, we uncover the rags-to-riches tale of Cyrus Gray Luce—wool carder, farmer, wartime legislator, and ultimately Michigan's 21st governor. Learn how a onetime Whig candidate in Indiana became the man who named a U.P. county after himself, oversaw the Grand Hotel's rise, and parlayed Civil War grit into two decisive election victories. It's politics, horse-power, and prohibition battles—served cold. Tune in and discover why Luce's legacy still echoes from Branch County to Mackinac Island.

    Love, War, and Real Estate: The Wing House Museum

    Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2025 6:31


    This week on Michigan Hidden History, we tour Coldwater's Wing House Museum—a home built for love, sold out of spite, and inherited by a Civil War hero turned cigar mogul. It's a story full of failed romance, steam-powered explosions, and bold real estate moves. Come for the Victorian architecture, stay for the marital drama and historical pettiness.

    Courthouse Chaos and Cabinet Gossip

    Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2025 7:45


    Branch County's history has it all — flaming courthouses, clock drama, and 1830s Cabinet scandals. From New England settlers to a $267 bell and clock deal, this episode proves Coldwater's past is anything but boring.

    “Books, Bricks, and Girlbosses: Coldwater's Library Glow-Up”

    Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2025 8:33


    Before Coldwater had a public library with award-winning masonry and historic district bragging rights, it had a team of absolute legends building it from the ground up—literally. In this episode, we're talking sassy librarians, early feminist wins, and why Coldwater's literary legacy is giving main character energy. Stick around for a teaser about next week's dive into the drama of Branch County.

    Steeples & Suffragists: The Church That Outshined Coldwater

    Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2025 7:47


    What do you get when you mix a 185-foot steeple, a Civil War construction delay, a lecture from Sojourner Truth, and a bell with New York swagger? You get the First Presbyterian Church of Coldwater — a Romanesque Revival legend that's been standing tall (literally) since the 1860s. In this episode, we're diving into Coldwater's architectural pride, feminist guest stars, and why one donor basically said, “Build it big enough to be seen from Indiana.” Church has never sounded this iconic.

    The Billionaire Snub: How Quincy Picked Heart Over Hype

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2025 6:40


    When two rich guys offered to build Quincy a library — one of them being Andrew Carnegie — the town went with the humble local hero instead. Find out why in this surprisingly funny tale of pride, paperbacks, and public shaming.

    Feuds, Trains, and Skyscrapers: The Spicy History of Jackson, MI

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2025 9:33


    Join Tharan Suvarna as he takes you on a deep dive into the rich—and sometimes spicy—history of Jackson, Michigan. From feuding pioneers to booming railroads and skyscraper disasters, this episode reveals the untold stories behind one of Michigan's most intriguing cities. You won't want to miss this wild ride through time!

    The Mic is Back (And So Am I!)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2025 2:32


    After a year-long mic mishap, Tharan's back with updates, big plans, and a fresh promise to finally stick with the podcast. Let's try this... again!

    Unveiling the Legacy: Ella Sharp, the Woman Behind the Museum

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2024 8:43


    Dive into the story of Ella Sharp, a remarkable woman who turned a family farm into a cherished museum and park, leaving a lasting impact on her community. This episode explores her passion for conservation, community building, and the incredible legacy she leaves behind.

    One Room School Houses still Operate in MIchigan?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2024 26:56


    This one-room schoolhouse served the community for a long time. The McCain family has been in the United States since 1770, and there are how many one-room schoolhouses still in Michigan.

    Camp Blair

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2024 7:48


    Hold onto your kepis, history lovers! We're drilling into the heart of the Civil War to uncover Camp Blair, Michigan's secret weapon. This wasn't just a military outpost; it was a crucible that forged raw recruits into battlefield heroes and a sanctuary that soothed the wounds of returning soldiers. Imagine the stories whispered by these very grounds – tales of bravery, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of a nation divided.

    Update on Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2024 2:09


    Season 4 is coming in hot at the end of April.

    History of the Democratic Party

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2023 21:35


    The Democratic Party is one of the two major political parties in the United States. It was founded in 1828 and has a long and complex history, including periods of dominance and decline. This podcast explores the party's history from its origins to the present day.

    Under the Oaks- The Founding of the Republican Party

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2023 23:30


    Come find out about one of two major political parties in the United States and how it was founded in Jackson Michigan and not Ripon Wisconsin.

    Austin Blair

    Play Episode Listen Later May 31, 2023 14:08


    Austin Blair was a controversial figure during his lifetime, but he is now remembered as one of the most important figures in Michigan history. He was a strong advocate for civil rights and equality, and he played a key role in the Union victory in the Civil War.

    Jacksonburg Public Square and First Methodist Episcopal Church

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2022 5:20


    What happens when your villiage maybe choosen for the new capital of Michigan and learn about how consumers energy is involved in a church's activities. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

    Horace Ismon

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2022 4:44


    Learn about this important Jackson Business Man.

    Seymour Treadwell

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2022 6:44


    Learn about the founder of the Republican Party.

    Abolitionist In Jackson

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2022 18:31


    Learn about the different abolitionist movements in Jackson and about the history behind the Kansas- Nebraska act.

    abolitionists kansas nebraska

    Claim Michigan Hidden History

    In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

    Claim Cancel