December 21, 2024

Author: Michaela Nolte

Michaela is a history buff and loves to export historical markers and old buildings and seeks stories about Michigan and Great Lakes history. When she is not writing, you can find her with a good book sipping wine on the beach.
History

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

Michaela Nolteby Michaela Nolte

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.

History

Manure Crisis of 1894: How Horses Almost Overwhelmed Cities

Michaela Nolteby 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.

History

Michigan Labor Propaganda Posters During World War II

Michaela Nolteby 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.