The City of Cleveland III – A Technological Marvel of Great Lakes Shipping History

The City of Cleveland III was the hotshot of its time, equipped with all the latest gadgets and gizmos that made other ships on the Great Lakes look like dinghies. It could fit 5,000 passengers and 1,500 beds, making it the ultimate party boat for summer tourists traveling between Detroit and Cleveland. But even this fancy vessel couldn’t avoid a classic case of “whoopsie daisy.” In 1950, the City of Cleveland III played a little game of bumper boats with the Norwegian freighter Ravnefjell in dense fog on Lake Huron off Harbor Beach, Michigan. Sadly, five folks aboard the ship didn’t survive the accidental game of demolition derby, and the City of Cleveland III was put out to pasture a few years later. Despite its mishap, this ship remains a true OG of Great Lakes history, proving that even with all the bells and whistles, accidents can still happen.

Discovering the Steamer City of Alpena: A Historic Voyage on the Great Lakes

by Paul Austin

The City of Alpena conducts service as part of the Detroit and Cleveland line. This 285-foot 2,000 horsepower sidewheel paddlewheel started service in 1893 and could carry up to 400 passengers and freight along the D&C’s “Coast Line to Mackinaw” run.

Manure Crisis of 1894: How Horses Almost Overwhelmed Cities

by Michaela Nolte

The Manure Crisis of 1898 refers to a significant environmental and public health issue that arose in major cities around the world, including New York City, due to the high number of horses on the streets. At the time, horses were the primary mode of transportation, and they produced vast amounts of manure and urine each day.

The French in Michigan – Little-Known Milestones 1530 – 1760

by Michaela Nolte

The French in Michigan and their presence in the upper Great Lakes region from 1534 to 1760 saw several critical milestones in the area’s exploration, fur trade, and military conquest. …

Ty Cobb: 10 Trivia Tidbits About A Detroit Tigers Baseball Legend

by Michaela Nolte

Ty Cobb, one of the greatest baseball players of all time, played for the Detroit Tigers for 22 seasons and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1936. He was known for his incredible skills, aggressive play, and numerous records, but he also faced controversy and criticism during his career.

The Beef Pasty – There is Only 1 True and Genuine Recipe In Michigan

by Paul Austin

An authentic Michigan food, the original Cornish beef pasty was brought to the Michigan Upper Peninsula by the English copper miners of the 1840s from their native Cornwall. The miners …

31 Interesting Things To Do In Mid-Michigan

by Michaela Nolte

We found these 26 amazing things to do in Mid-Michigan. We explored Bay City, Saginaw, Frankenmuth, and Midland to find these fun things to do.

Things to Do In Howell Michigan: 10 Remarkable Activities for Tourists

by Michaela Nolte

Howell, Michigan, is a charming city in the middle of Livingston County. It has a unique mix of history, nature, and modern amenities. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, this city has something for everyone. Here are ten things to do in Howell Michigan to add to your itinerary.

Goebel Beer: Acclaimed History of Detroit’s Quality German Brewing 1873 – 2005

by Michael Hardy

The Goebel Brewing Company was one of the leading beer producers in Detroit, Michigan, until the 1960s. It was ahead of its time with a light beer and grew with phenomenal ad campaigns in Life magazine in the 1940s.

Michigan Labor Propaganda Posters During World War II

by Michaela Nolte

When the United States entered World War II, propaganda posters encouraged workers to contribute their labor to the war effort with the promise of winning the war for a better future. Posters also encouraged Americans to volunteer and enlist in the military, buy war bonds, conserve resources and conserve food.