Michigan Hidden History

In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, Tharan and Robin return to Mackinac Island's religious history to explore Trinity Episcopal Church, a congregation whose story began decades before its Victorian Gothic church was built in 1882.The story begins in 1837, when Bishop Jackson Kemper, the Episcopal Church's first missionary bishop and the man known as the “Apostle to the West,” preached on Mackinac Island. For the next thirty-six years, the island's Episcopalians worshipped wherever they could, including the Mission Church, Fort Mackinac's post chapel, and even the county courthouse.As Mackinac Island transformed into a major summer resort destination, the growing congregation formally organized a parish in 1873 and finally built Trinity Episcopal Church nine years later. Inside are pieces of craftsmanship that still connect visitors directly to the nineteenth century, including a hand-carved walnut altar and two chancel chairs made by soldiers stationed at Fort Mackinac.Tharan and Robin also compare Trinity with the Little Stone Church and explore how Mackinac Island's Catholic, Episcopal, and ecumenical Protestant congregations reflected the different communities that called the island home.From borrowed courthouses and military chapels to handmade furniture and more than a century of summer worship, Trinity Episcopal Church shows how a community of faith slowly built something permanent on an island defined by change.You build something that lasts. Then, generation after generation, you keep coming back.

In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, Tharan and Robin uncover one of Mackinac Island's most overlooked stories: Jean and Jeanne Bonga, a Black couple whose lives reveal a little-known chapter of slavery, freedom, and entrepreneurship on the Great Lakes frontier.The episode begins in the 1780s, when the Bongas were connected to British garrison commander Captain Daniel Robertson. Historical records suggest they may have been enslaved before becoming free residents of Mackinac Island. Their 1794 marriage record at Ste. Anne de Michilimackinac provides the clearest early documentation of their freedom and their place within the island community.After gaining their freedom, Jean and Jeanne opened a tavern and inn in the late 1780s that was later described as the first hotel on Mackinac Island. In a frontier community filled with soldiers, traders, travelers, and Indigenous families, the Bongas built a business that provided food, shelter, and a gathering place for the people passing through the island.Tharan and Robin also explore the precarious reality of being free and Black on the eighteenth-century frontier, the family's survival after Jean's death in 1795, and the extraordinary life of their grandson George Bonga, who became a voyageur, interpreter, merchant, and link between Black, European, and Anishinaabek communities.From slavery and freedom to business, family, and the beginnings of Mackinac Island hospitality, this episode brings Jean and Jeanne Bonga out from behind a historical marker and puts their names back into the story of Michigan.Before the Grand Hotel, before the resorts, Jean and Jeanne Bonga were among Mackinac Island's first hosts.

In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, Tharan and Robin uncover two stories connected by one street on Mackinac Island: the rise of the North American fur trade and the accidental shooting that helped transform medical science.First, they explore Market Street at the height of the fur trade, when John Jacob Astor's American Fur Company made Mackinac Island the center of a massive commercial network stretching across the Great Lakes. Every summer, thousands of Anishinaabek traders, French Canadian voyageurs, merchants, and company agents converged on the island, moving millions of dollars worth of furs through one of the most important trading centers in North America.The episode also examines the crucial roles played by the voyageurs and Anishinaabek nations, whose knowledge, labor, and trading networks made the industry possible, as well as the economic and cultural consequences that remained after the fur trade declined.Then comes June 6, 1822. Nineteen-year-old voyageur Alexis St. Martin was accidentally shot at close range inside the American Fur Company Store. He survived, but the wound left a permanent opening into his stomach. Army surgeon Dr. William Beaumont recognized an unprecedented opportunity and eventually conducted hundreds of experiments that laid the foundation for modern understanding of human digestion.From beaver hats and voyageurs to an accidental musket blast and groundbreaking medical research, this episode reveals just how much history can be hidden on one Mackinac Island street.One street. One accidental shooting. And the history of medicine changed forever.

In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, Tharan and Robin step inside the Biddle House, the oldest surviving structure on Mackinac Island, to uncover the story of a remarkable building and an even more remarkable woman. Dating to the 1780s, the house was constructed using the rare French Canadian piece sur piece en coulisse technique and has survived more than two centuries of change on the island.But the heart of this episode is Agatha Biddle. An Anishinaabek woman who married Pennsylvania trader Edward Biddle in 1819, Agatha helped build a successful merchant household while maintaining deep ties to her Native community. By the 1860s, she had become a chief of the Mackinac Band of Odawa and Ojibway, part of a community in which women held significant leadership roles.Tharan and Robin explore Agatha's reputation for generosity, her ability to navigate both Anishinaabek and American society, and the important role Native women played in the Great Lakes fur trade. They also examine how her life offers another perspective on the cultural pressures and missionary activity discussed earlier in the season.Finally, the episode follows the Biddle House through decline, restoration, and its transformation in 2020 into the Mackinac Island Native American Museum, bringing the story of the building back to the people whose history has always been at the center of the island.From French Canadian architecture and the fur trade to Native leadership, family, and cultural survival, the Biddle House holds more than two centuries of Mackinac Island history within its walls.Sometimes Michigan's hidden history is literally in the walls.

In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, Tharan and Robin step just off Mackinac Island to uncover the story of the Round Island Lighthouse, the red brick tower seen by thousands of ferry passengers every year but understood by very few.Built in 1895 to help ships navigate the dangerous waters of the Straits of Mackinac, the lighthouse operated continuously for fifty-two years. Tharan and Robin explore the hazardous currents, storms, fog, and navigation challenges that made a lighthouse on Round Island a matter of life and death for Great Lakes sailors.They also look at the human side of lighthouse keeping, from the original three-person crews who maintained the light around the clock to the lone caretakers who remained after the station was automated in 1924. Then, in 1947, a new beacon made the lighthouse obsolete, leaving the historic structure abandoned and slowly falling into ruin.But the story did not end there. Preservation advocates, volunteers, and the U.S. Forest Service stepped in to save the deteriorating lighthouse, ensuring that the tower would remain standing as a reminder of the dangerous history beneath the seemingly peaceful waters of the Straits.From isolated lighthouse keepers and Great Lakes shipwrecks to abandonment and preservation, this episode tells the story behind one of Mackinac Island's most familiar views.Next time you take the ferry, look south. Now you'll know what you're looking at.

In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, Tharan and Robin slow things down to explore one of Mackinac Island's quieter landmarks: the Little Stone Church, officially known as Union Congregational Church. Built in 1904 from glacial fieldstones gathered by hand from the island itself, the church grew from the vision of just eleven charter members who wanted a place of worship for Mackinac Island's summer community.They uncover how local builder Frank Rounds and his crew collected stones deposited by ancient glaciers and transformed them into the church's walls, combining the island's natural history with its human history.Inside, fourteen stained glass windows installed in 1914 tell stories from Mackinac Island's past, including the fur trade, missionary activity, and the experiences of Native people during a period of major cultural and religious change. Tharan and Robin examine not only the beauty of those windows, but also the more complicated history they represent and how our understanding of those stories has changed over time.The episode also explores the church's century-long role as a summer place of worship and one of Michigan's most beloved wedding destinations.From Ice Age geology to stained glass, faith, community, and cultural change, the Little Stone Church proves that some of Michigan's biggest stories can be found in its smallest buildings.Eleven people. A lot of rocks. More than a century of history.

In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, Tharan and Robin uncover how Mackinac Island became the backdrop for two major political and business gatherings whose influence reached far beyond northern Michigan.First, they travel back to 1943, when Republican leaders gathered at the Grand Hotel during World War II to debate America's role in the postwar world. At the center was Michigan Senator Arthur Vandenberg, a former isolationist who became one of the country's strongest advocates for international cooperation. The compromise forged at Mackinac helped build Republican support for the United Nations and, later, NATO.That gathering eventually evolved into the Mackinac Republican Leadership Conference, attracting major political figures including Ronald Reagan, John McCain, Mitt Romney, and others.Then, Tharan and Robin explore the very different origins of the Mackinac Policy Conference. Beginning in 1904 as a business conference held aboard a Great Lakes cruise ship, the event moved to Mackinac Island in 1981 and grew into one of the Midwest's most influential gatherings of political, business, and civic leaders.From wartime foreign policy debates to conversations about Michigan's economy, infrastructure, and future, this episode reveals how the Grand Hotel's famous porch became much more than a place to relax.Two conferences. One island. Decisions that reached far beyond Michigan.

In Part Two of Michigan Hidden History's Grand Hotel series, Tharan and Robin continue the story of Mackinac Island's most iconic hotel by exploring the people, films, traditions, and restoration efforts that shaped the Grand into what it is today.The episode begins with the Musser family, who purchased the hotel in 1979 and helped create its unmistakable style through a decades-long partnership with Dorothy Draper & Company. Then, Hollywood returns to Mackinac Island with Somewhere in Time, the 1980 film starring Christopher Reeve, Jane Seymour, and Christopher Plummer that transformed the Grand Hotel into a pilgrimage destination for generations of fans.Tharan and Robin also uncover the Grand Hotel's National Historic Landmark designation, its collection of rooms honoring former First Ladies, and the end of the Musser family's forty-year ownership era. Finally, they explore the massive restoration project working to return the hotel's exterior to its historic appearance while preserving the character that has made it famous for more than a century.From Hollywood romance and presidential history to bold design and historic preservation, Part Two tells the story of how generation after generation has chosen to keep the Grand Hotel alive.The Grand Hotel exists because people kept deciding it was worth saving.

In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, Tharan and Robin explore the surprising story behind one of Michigan's most recognizable landmarks: the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island.Opened in 1887 by a partnership of railroad and steamship companies, the Grand Hotel was built to attract travelers to Mackinac Island and quickly became famous for its massive 660-foot front porch. But behind the elegance was a far less glamorous story. For decades, the hotel struggled financially, went through multiple managers, and in 1910 even faced a serious proposal to tear it down and sell the land.Then came W. Stewart Woodfill. Starting as a desk clerk before becoming manager in 1923, Woodfill would eventually buy the struggling hotel during the Great Depression and guide it through economic hardship, World War II, and decades of change. His determination helped transform the Grand Hotel from a struggling seasonal resort into a world-famous Michigan landmark.Along the way, discover the Grand Hotel's connection to Mackinac Island's automobile ban, Mark Twain, early phonograph demonstrations, and Hollywood star Esther Williams.This is Part One of our two-part Grand Hotel story: the building, the struggle, and the man who refused to let it disappear.

In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, Tharan and Robin return to Mackinac Island to uncover two remarkable stories connected by the same historic ground at Fort Mackinac.First, discover the origins of the Governor's Honor Guard, which began in 1929 with eight Eagle Scouts, including a young Gerald Ford, decades before he became the 38th President of the United States. Follow the program as it grew, from a Scout barracks built by World War I veterans during the Great Depression to the inclusion of Girl Scouts in 1975 and the tradition that continues every summer today.Then travel back to 1885, when soldiers stationed at Fort Mackinac formed their own baseball club. Games drew spectators to a 500-seat grandstand overlooking Lake Huron, and the parade ground they played on is considered Michigan's oldest continuously used baseball field.From future presidents raising flags to soldiers playing baseball, this episode shows how one small piece of Mackinac Island has carried generations of Michigan history.Two stories. One parade ground. Hundreds of years of Michigan life.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

This episode explores the rich history of the First Presbyterian Church of Northville, Michigan, detailing its founding by Revolutionary War veteran Joseph Yerkes in 1829, its growth and development over the years, and the significant impact of Reverend James Dubar. The narrative highlights the church's evolution alongside the community of Northville, showcasing its resilience and commitment to serving its members for nearly two centuries.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Northville's History01:18 The Founding of First Presbyterian Church05:02 Growth and Development of the Church08:24 Reverend James Dubar's Impact10:17 Northville's Transformation in the Early 1900s12:17 Modern Developments and Renovations14:41 Legacy of the First Presbyterian Church

This is an update on how episodes are released for the next two months

Explore the fascinating history of Mackinac Island during the War of 1812, including surprise attacks, strategic fortifications, and the legacy of Major Holmes. Discover how this pivotal location shaped regional and military history, often overlooked in mainstream narratives.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mackinac Island's History02:48 The Strategic Importance of Mackinac Island05:38 The British Surprise Attack of 181208:17 Fortifications and Native Alliances11:09 The American Counterattack of 181413:57 The Tragic Fall of Major Holmes16:43 The Treaty of Ghent and Its Aftermath19:02 The Legacy of Fort Holmes21:39 Exploring Major Andrew Holmes24:23 The British Perspective on the War26:59 Visiting Fort Holmes Today29:15 Recap and Reflections on Mackinac Island resourcesFort Mackinac Official Site - https://example.com/fort-mackinacWar of 1812 - Wikipedia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_of_1812

Before the fudge, the forts, and the ferry rides, Mackinac Island was sacred ground. In the Season 10 premiere, Tharan and new co-host Robin explore the thousand-year history of the Anishinaabek people — their spiritual connection to the island, their ancient burial traditions, and the long fight to bring their ancestors home.

summaryThis episode explores the rich history of Northville, Michigan, from its early settlement in 1823 to its transformation into a thriving city. The narrative covers key developments such as the establishment of the first mill, the impact of electric streetcars, Henry Ford's factory, and the cultural significance of the Pennyman Allen Theater and harness racing. It also highlights the importance of preserving history through the Mill Race Historical Village and discusses the challenges of modern growth while maintaining the town's historical character.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Northville's History01:16 The Early Settlers and Community Foundations06:33 Growth Through the Victorian Era08:37 Incorporation and Electric Streetcars10:45 Henry Ford's Impact on Northville13:34 Cultural Shifts and Entertainment16:07 Northville's Transformation into a City17:34 Preserving History at Mill Race Historical Village20:44 Modern Northville: Balancing Growth and Heritage

This episode of Michigan Hidden History explores the Mayberry Sanatorium, a tuberculosis treatment facility in Northfield Township, Michigan. The host, Tharan Suvarna, delves into the history of tuberculosis in Detroit, the life and contributions of William H. Mayberry, and the unique features of the sanatorium. The episode also discusses the daily life of patients, the decline of tuberculosis due to antibiotics, and the ghost stories associated with the site, which is now Mayberry State Park.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mayberry Sanatorium01:07 The Rise of Tuberculosis in Detroit03:14 William H. Mayberry: The Man Behind the Sanatorium07:31 Life Inside Mayberry Sanatorium12:41 Daily Life and Treatment Philosophy15:44 The Decline of Tuberculosis and Closure of Mayberry16:39 Ghost Stories and Hauntings18:48 Mayberry State Park: A Legacy Remembered

SummaryThis episode explores the transformative journey of electricity in Michigan, focusing on the history of the Detroit Edison Company, its evolution into DTE Energy, and the impact on the community. From the introduction of gas lighting in the 1850s to the establishment of electric power in the early 1900s, the narrative highlights key figures like Lamil Davis and Thomas Edison, the rise of the auto industry, and the educational efforts to teach residents how to use electricity. The episode concludes with DTE Energy's commitment to renewable energy and its role in modern Michigan.Chapters00:00 From Darkness to Light: The Birth of Electricity08:40 The Rise of Detroit Edison and the Auto Industry13:48 The Evolution of DTE Energy and Community Impact

summaryThis episode explores the rich history of the First Presbyterian Church of Northville, Michigan, detailing its founding by Revolutionary War veteran Joseph Yerkes in 1829, its growth and development over the years, and the significant impact of Reverend James Dubar. The narrative highlights the church's evolution alongside the community of Northville, showcasing its resilience and commitment to serving its members for nearly two centuries.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Northville's History01:18 The Founding of First Presbyterian Church05:02 Growth and Development of the Church08:24 Reverend James Dubar's Impact10:17 Northville's Transformation in the Early 1900s12:17 Modern Developments and Renovations14:41 Legacy of the First Presbyterian Church

Discover the rich history of Royal Oak, Michigan, from its origins as a legendary tree to a vibrant city. This episode explores the city's transformation through stories of resilience, innovation, and community. Learn about the influential figures and events that shaped Royal Oak, and how its past continues to influence its future. Join us for an insightful journey into the heart of Michigan's history.

Explore the serene and historical St. Mary Catholic Cemetery in Royal Oak, Michigan, a sacred space that reflects the community's rich heritage. This episode delves into the cemetery's origins, its significance as a resting place for generations of parishioners, and the notable figures interred there. Discover the stories of faith, remembrance, and community that are woven into the fabric of this hallowed ground. Join us as we uncover the cultural and historical insights that St. Mary Catholic Cemetery offers, providing a unique perspective on the area's past and present.

Explore the intriguing history of the Royal Oak Township Cemetery, a resting place that holds the stories of a community's past. This episode delves into the cemetery's origins, its significance as a historical landmark, and the notable figures interred there. Discover the cultural and historical insights that the cemetery offers, reflecting the diverse heritage of Royal Oak Township. Join us as we uncover the tales of those who shaped the community and the legacy they left behind, offering a unique perspective on the area's history.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.