Cette série propose une exploration captivante de la riche histoire et des cultures diverses de l'État américain du Michigan. À travers des centaines de photographies vintage fascinantes, les histoires de petites villes, de métropoles animées et de sites emblématiques prennent vie. Chaque volume offre un aperçu unique des personnes, des lieux et des événements qui ont façonné cette région attrayante des Grands Lacs. Les passionnés d'histoire et les amateurs de nostalgie apprécieront ce voyage visuel dans le temps.
The city's history is rooted in Denison Rose, a War of 1812 hero, rather than the flower it's commonly associated with. Established as a village in 1926 and becoming a city in 1958, Roseville has evolved into a "bedroom community" strategically located between Detroit and Mount Clemens. After reaching its peak population in 1970, the city is now undergoing significant commercial development, highlighted by the renovation of Macomb Mall, one of the country's earliest shopping centers.
Motor City Mafia: A Century of Organized Crime in Detroit chronicles the storied and hallowed gangland history of the notorious Detroit underworld. Scott M. Burnstein takes the reader inside the belly of the beast, tracking the bloodshed, exploits, and leadership of the southeast Michigan crime syndicate as never before seen in print. Through a stunning array of rare archival photographs and images, Motor City Mafia captures Detroit's most infamous past, from its inception in the early part of the 20th century, through the years when the iconic Purple Gang ruled the city's streets during Prohibition, through the 1930s and the formation of the local Italian mafia, and the Detroit crime family's glory days in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s, all the way to the downfall of the area's mob reign in the 1980s and 1990s.
The history of Gibraltar, Michigan, is deeply intertwined with its location along the Detroit River, shaping its development from a Wyandot village in 1750 to a vibrant city. Known as the "Venice of Michigan," it features numerous canals and has a rich heritage of shipbuilding, lumber mills, and recreational activities like hunting and fishing. Incorporated as a village in 1954 and later as a city, Gibraltar's early leadership included Hy Dahlka, a key figure in wildlife conservation and community initiatives.
Set in the early 20th century, the story explores the transformation of Livonia from a rural community with farms and cheese factories to a bustling township influenced by the booming auto industry in nearby Detroit. As white-collar workers flock to the area, the narrative delves into the social and economic changes that reshape the lives of its residents, reflecting broader themes of progress and community evolution during a pivotal era in American history.
In the midst of the Depression, a government agency was created that changed the lives of thousands of Americans. The Works Progress Administration (WPA) was more than a program that put the unemployed to work, it was a revolutionary concept that sought to improve the lives of Americans through the physical improvement of their surroundings and the physical and intellectual improvement of themselves. For the people of Detroit, the WPA built schools and libraries, provided clothing and shelter, and enriched their lives through literacy, health, and educational programs. It brought art, theater, and music to the masses through groundbreaking cultural programs and created the infrastructure necessary to allow Detroit to blossom into the “Arsenal of Democracy” and one of America’s greatest cities.
Keweenaw County, Michigan, is characterized by its vast landscapes and sparse winter population, which swells during the summer months with seasonal residents. Established in 1861 from Houghton County, it occupies the northern part of the Keweenaw Peninsula, historically significant for its copper mining boom in the 1800s. The construction of Fort Wilkins in Copper Harbor was pivotal for maintaining order among miners and the Ojibwa people. Over the years, the county evolved from a mining hub to a center for maritime, fishing, and lumbering industries, ultimately transforming into a popular resort destination.
"Midwest Skiing: A Glance Back" explores the rich history of skiing in the Midwest, tracing its roots to Scandinavian immigrants who brought the sport as a means of transport. It highlights local ski clubs, competitions, and Olympic athletes, offering a visual journey through the evolution of skiing as a beloved recreational activity.
The history of Northern Michigan Asylum, established in 1885, is explored through its founding context, significant figures like Dr. James Decker Munson, and its evolution over 104 years as Traverse City State Hospital. The narrative covers the institution's peak population of 3,000, its impact on mental health care in Michigan, and the eventual decline leading to its closure in 1989. The book also highlights efforts for renovation and preservation, emphasizing its enduring significance within the Traverse City community.
Detroit, the Motor City, welcomed many newcomers to work and interact in the deaf community in the early 20th century. The booming job market attracted Benjamin and Ralph Beaver, deaf brothers from Iuka, Illinois, who helped form the Detroit Association of the Deaf (DAD) Club--celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2016. Others included the Wahowiak family, who ran a shoe repair business in Upper Michigan for two deaf generations; Arlyn Meyerson, a deaf restaurateur for 55 years; Glenn Stewart, the first black deaf man graduated from Rochester Institute of Technology; and Dudley Cutshaw, a longtime deaf local leader. In addition, Grand Rapids, Flint, and Upper Michigan each contributed to this great deaf heritage by affiliating with Detroit's deaf community. Through vintage photographs of successful organizations, including Catholic Deaf Organization, Motor City Association of the Deaf, Black Silent Club, Michigan Deaf School, and Flint Association for the Deaf, Detroit's Deaf Heritage illustrates the evolution of the deaf community and its prominent leaders.
Covering over 80 years of America's favorite pastime, Baseball in Detroit 1886-1968 takes fans back to the glory days of Ty Cobb in the early 20th century and follows the progress of the Detroit Tigers. From the three-time pennant winners of this century's first decade to the last real championship team of 1968, Detroiters have flocked to see their team play, win or lose. The fact that they have played at the same intersection of town for over a century is a tribute to the pride and loyalty that each has shown for the other. It could be said that no other baseball franchise has such a close relationship with its constituency. This relationship is clearly shown in a fascinating photographic collection, and sports fans everywhere will appreciate this candid glimpse into our nation's favorite game. As we approach the next millennium, a new stadium is under construction for this historic team. It, too, will be the place of legends, where great players and fans will create another glorious 100 years of baseball history in Detroit. The American League, to which the Detroit Tigers belong as charter members, is fast approaching its own centennial.
In greater Detroit, Chaldeans from present-day Iraq have established a strong presence and a thriving community. Chaldeans (pronounced Kal-de'an) are a distinct ethnic group from present-day Iraq with roots stretching back to Abraham, the biblical patriarch of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam who was from the Ur of the Chaldees. Chaldeans are Catholic, with their own patriarch, and they speak a dialect of Aramaic, the language of Jesus Christ. Chaldeans began immigrating to the United States at the beginning of the 20th century, when Iraq was known as Mesopotamia (the Greek word meaning land between two rivers, the Tigris and the Euphrates). Lured by Henry Ford's promise of $5 per day, many Chaldeans went to work in Detroit's automotive factories. They soon followed their entrepreneurial instincts to open their own businesses, typically grocery markets and corner stores. Religious persecution has caused tens of thousands of Chaldeans to relocate to Michigan. Today, the Greater Detroit area has the largest concentration of Chaldeans outside of Iraq: 150,000 people.
Introduced at the opening of the New York World s Fair in April 1964, the Ford Mustang was based on mechanicals from the earlier Ford Falcon compact car. It quickly established a new motorcar category the pony car which was widely copied by domestic and overseas competitors. From the outset, the Mustang represented inspired product planning and design, followed by brilliantly executed marketing. Ford s Mustang team effort used every tool in the vehicle-marketing toolbox: clever teases long before the new product went on sale, unprecedented publicity, simple but effective advertising, the stage at the World s Fair, movie placement, distribution of toy plastic models, and even a replica pedal car for the young drivers of the future. With a measure of luck, it became a classic case of releasing the right product at the right time, and Ford sold one million units in less than two years."
Typically a village begins when individuals and families decide to settle in a place, build homes, stores, and other buildings for their common good, and decide on a name for the settlement. Bellaire's story progressed in a different fashion: a building for the common good was required and a plat of vacant land was selected. Settlers came afterward. In 1879, Antrim County supervisors, meeting in a temporary courthouse in Elk Rapids, decided that inland population growth and difficulty in travel necessitated placement of the county seat in a more central location. They chose land in Kearney Township owned by Ambrose Palmer, and on June 24, 1879, Bellaire became the county seat. By 1900, businesses and families filled the village, farms and lumber operations surrounded it, and the population boomed.
Set against the backdrop of Lansing's transformation from wilderness to industrial hub, the narrative highlights Ransom Eli Olds' pivotal role in the automotive revolution. As he advanced gasoline and steam engine technology, Olds established Oldsmobile as the first mass producer of automobiles, earning Lansing the title of "Auto City." The book utilizes primary documents and historical images to explore the city's industrial evolution and Olds' legacy as a leading entrepreneur in the early 20th century.
The history of Grosse Pointe Shores unfolds from its early French settlements and ribbon farms to its transformation in the 1860s when affluent Detroiters built summer homes along the lakeshore. Officially established in 1911, the village saw the rise of grand mansions, which eventually gave way to subdivided properties post-World War II. By the late 20th century, it evolved into a community of well-maintained homes. The residents commemorated a century of their village's history in 2011, marking a century of change and growth.
The historical evolution of Shelby Township, Michigan, highlights its transformation from a fertile farming community in the 19th century to a modern landscape dominated by automobile-related industries. Initially surveyed in 1818, the area became a thriving agricultural hub, notable for its role in the Underground Railroad and later as the residence of boxer Joe Louis. The township's development included the ill-fated Clinton and Kalamazoo Canal, and by the mid-20th century, the Packard Motor Car Company significantly altered its character, leading to the suburban and industrial growth observed today.
Detroit's Infamous Purple Gang is a photographic history of one of the most notorious organized crime groups of the 20th century. The photographs chronologically follow the evolution of the Purples from their days as a juvenile street gang through their rise to power and eventual self-destruction. Using rare police department mug shots and group photographs, the book transports readers through the dark side of Prohibition-era Detroit history. Detroit had a gold rush atmosphere and a thriving black market during the 1920s that attracted gangsters and unsavory characters from all over the country.
In the latter half of the 19th century, the city of Ypsilanti went through a rapid transition from a small farming community to a center of education and business. By 1900, Ypsilanti was nationally known for three things: the Michigan Central Gardens, the mineral wells, and underwear. The gardens were designed by famed landscape gardener John Laidlaw, who studied gardening in his native Scotland before coming to the United States. Beginning in the 1880s, people came from miles away to bathe in Ypsilanti's mineral waters, which were said to cure just about anything. And for many years, Ypsilanti was the home of the Underwear Factory, where the finest full body union suits were made.Dr. Helen McAndrew was the first woman doctor in Ypsilanti, opening her practice in 1854. She and her husband were active in the Underground Railroad, which Ypsilanti played a very active role in. Ypsilanti is also the home of Eastern Michigan University, founded in 1848, becoming the first normal school west of the Alleghenies.
Founded in 1924 by one-time railroad mechanic Walter P. Chrysler, Chrysler the car actually preceded Chrysler the corporation. With roots entwined with several pioneering automakers and industries, Chrysler made it possible for Detroit to become the Motor City. Featured here in over 200 vintage photographs is the heritage of one of Detroit's most renowned automakers. Chrysler Heritage: A Photographic History follows the fortunes of the company, its founders, and its products for over a century. Through its acquisition of Dodge and the introduction of Plymouth and DeSoto, Chrysler rose quickly. Renowned for its advanced engineering, it surpassed mighty Ford Motor Company for second place in sales after GM in 1933. Showcasing photographs from the Chrysler archives along with in-depth captions, this new book captures the muscle of Detroit, including the corporation's unparalleled involvement in the Second World War and the Cold War.
The book explores the rich history of Grosse Pointe Shores, the smallest of the Grosse Pointe communities along Lake St. Clair. It details the transformation from French ribbon farms in the 1700s to the establishment of summer homes by affluent Detroiters in the 1860s. The formal establishment of the village in 1911 marked the beginning of a community characterized by grand mansions, which evolved post-World War II into a neighborhood of well-maintained homes. The narrative culminates with the centennial celebration in 2011, reflecting on a century of change and growth.
Stretching 265 miles, the majestic Grand River is Michigan's longest waterway, and it was once considered one of the Midwest's most important. The river starts as a trickle just south of Jackson and gains power as it surges toward Lake Michigan in Grand Haven. Trappers first used the river to trade with the Native American villages along its banks. Later, the lumber industry transported logs via the Grand. The river shaped the towns and cities that grew up along its banks, providing them with transportation and power for manufacturers, including the once-renowned Grand Rapids furniture industry. Fertile farmlands have always played an important role in the history of the Grand River Valley. Today, the river is used primarily for recreation, including boating, fishing, and, in Grand Ledge, rock climbing.
Grand Rapids, Michigan was the center for shopping in western Michigan with department stores, five-and-dimes and more, until the advent of the shopping mall. For decades, downtown Grand Rapids enjoyed a long run in the limelight as the epicenter of shopping in western Michigan. The vibrant Monroe Avenue corridor included three homegrown department stores, several chain department stores, five-and-dime stores, and scores of clothing and specialty retailers. It weathered mother nature, wars, the Great Depression, the advent of neighborhood shopping centers, and civil disturbances--but the one change it could not overcome was the regional shopping mall.
Grand Haven is nestled in wooded dunes and surrounded by the waters of Lake Michigan, Spring Lake, and the Grand River. Under the leadership of Rev. William Montague Ferry, the first settlers arrived from Mackinac Island November 2, 1834. In recognition of the port's large, accommodating and safe harbor, Rix Robinson, fur trader and land holder, platted and named the town April 15, 1835. The approximately 200 photographs in this book are from the archives of the Tri-Cities Historical Museum. They provide an invaluable visual glimpse of the places, people, and events that shaped the Grand Haven area, which also includes Ferrysburg and Spring Lake, in the critical century between 1860 and 1960. In Grand Haven's early years the lumber industry took advantage of the towering white pines that grew for miles around, providing lumber for Chicago, Milwaukee, and other port cities. During this period the mineral water spas in Spring Lake, Fruitport, and Grand Haven spawned the area tourist industry that is still alive today. By 1890 the large tracts of forest were gone and the area sawmills closed. The slack was taken up by the Grand Trunk carferries, which began cross-lake service in 1903, making Grand Haven one of the busiest ports on Lake Michigan for the next 30 years.
Images of America: Howell features vintage photographs of Howell, most of which have never before been published. This visual documentation spans the decades from the 1850s to the 1950s, telling the story of Livingston Centre, known today as the city of Howell. Unique images in this volume include turn-of-the-century street fairs and parades, the first paving of the Grand River, and World War I inductees marching to the courthouse to be sworn in to federal service. Furthermore, historically significant photographs document Howell's cultural keystones: the courthouse, Carnegie Library, and the Opera House. Also, see views of the Ann Arbor and Pere Marquette railroad depots, street scenes, merchants, businesses, industry, and social organizations that illustrate Howell's evolution from a tiny settlement to a vibrant and thriving city.
Set in mid-19th century Michigan, the narrative explores the transformation of a once wild landscape into a bustling lumber hub. The story highlights the impact of population growth and the timber industry's rise, focusing on Clare as a pivotal location during this period of change. It delves into the lives of trappers, Native Americans, and the influx of settlers, showcasing the clash of cultures and the environmental consequences of industrial expansion.
Set on Harsen's Island, Tashmoo Park was a vibrant resort destination from 1897 to 1951, accessible via the luxurious steamer Tashmoo. This 60-acre park featured picnic areas, a dance pavilion, sports facilities, and a beach, making it a beloved summer getaway for Detroit residents. The Tashmoo steamer, launched in 1900, symbolized the height of leisure travel until its sinking in 1936 led to the park's decline. Today, Tashmoo Park and its steamer exist as nostalgic memories of a bygone era of enjoyment and community.
The book explores the rich history and natural beauty of Presque Isle County in Michigan, highlighting its picturesque landscapes along Lake Huron and its lush forests. It traces the region's development from Native American settlements to the influx of European immigrants post-Civil War, who contributed to the lumber and limestone booms. Although these economic booms have faded, the area's serene environment continues to attract tourists and new residents seeking tranquility away from busier tourist destinations.
Olympia Stadium served as Detroit's premier entertainment venue for over fifty years, hosting major sports events and iconic performances from legends like Elvis and the Beatles. This book offers a captivating exploration of the stadium through more than 200 historic photographs, showcasing not only the events but also the unsung heroes behind the scenes—workers, media, and Red Wing Alumni. It celebrates the rich history of a beloved landmark that was a second home to many Detroiters, capturing the essence of the community and its vibrant past.
In 1762, Chapman Abraham became the first Jew to set foot in Detroit, and the Jewish community has played a significant role in Detroit's history ever since. Sarah and Isaac Cozens formed the Beth El Society in 1850, when the census showed 51 Jewish adults living in Detroit. The cholera epidemic of 1854 claimed the life of the rabbi of Detroit's only Jewish congregation. But the community continued to grow, and to serve. Two-hundred and ten Jewish soldiers from Michigan served in the Civil War-more than one per family. Jewish Detroit chronicles in photographs the history of this remarkable community in Detroit, from its growth within the city to its migration to the suburbs, from its battles against anti-Semitism at the hands of Henry Ford and others to celebrating its own heroes like Hank Greenberg, the all-star first baseman of the Detroit Tigers.
Focusing on the historic development of St. Joseph County, Michigan, this book explores the charm of River Country, known for its quaint small towns and one of the largest Amish populations in the state. Readers will discover the area's rich architectural heritage, featuring styles from the 1800s such as Italianate, Greek Revival, and Colonial. The narrative delves into the local businesses, notable personalities, and community activities that have shaped the region's unique character, highlighting its significance on both state and national registers.
Incorporated as the Farwell City Company by wealthy businessmen and nurtured by a few founding families, Farwell was a unique planned community in the wilderness of mid-Michigan. Farwell brought businessmen, lumberjacks, Civil War veterans, hopeful farmers, and other courageous pioneers due to its location at the convergence of a new state road and the railroad, with valuable virgin timber in all directions. Carefully platted and attracting many businesses, Farwell successfully transitioned from lumbering to agriculture as the pioneer days gave way to the new century. While many neighbors became ghost towns, Farwell continued to make additions to the village, open new schools, and create many social and cultural organizations. From its beginnings as a joint stock company and seat of Clare County to the present-day village, Farwell has endured, adapted, and succeeded at providing generations with a small town to proudly call home.
The book explores the historical evolution of East Lansing, Michigan, from its origins as a crossroads of Indian trails to a flourishing city of 46,000 residents. It highlights the establishment of the Agriculture College of the State of Michigan in 1855, which later became Michigan State University, and the subsequent growth of the surrounding community, initially named Collegeville. With a city charter granted in 1907, the narrative emphasizes the unique relationship between the city and the university, showcasing their development through a collection of images.
Set against the backdrop of significant historical events from 1914 to 1951, the narrative explores the emergence of Black Bottom as a vital center for the black community in Detroit. Facing racism and housing discrimination, migrants from the South transformed this former immigrant enclave into a hub of social and cultural resilience. The community's struggles and triumphs highlight a rich tradition of self-help and solidarity, showcasing how adversity shaped Black Bottom into a strong, cohesive neighborhood despite its challenges.
The year 2002 marks the 175th anniversary of the founding of Plymouth Township in Michigan Territory. The first settlers were true pioneers, carving a living out of the wilderness and working together to establish a community. Farms and farmers were the backbone of the community until after the Civil War when two railroads intersected in the Village of Plymouth. The railroads brought many opportunities to the area, and helped spread the products invented by an innovative population. Plymouth, Michigan's First Century: Innovators and Industry contains more than 200 images from the Plymouth Historical Museum and from the collections of some of Plymouth's current residents. You'll see the township blossom from farms and mills to a cohesive community of inventors and patriots. Early images of the main business block of Plymouth Village are reminiscent of the Wild West; later images depict a vibrant community, as it remains today.
The book offers a visual journey through Olympia Stadium, the largest rink in the U.S. at its 1927 opening. Compiled by Robert Wimmer, it features over 200 historic photographs capturing the venue's vibrant history until its 1986 demolition. The stadium was a hub for major sporting events, including boxing and wrestling, and served as home to the Detroit Red Wings and Pistons. It also hosted iconic performances by stars like Elvis Presley and the Beatles, highlighting the diverse cultural impact of this Detroit landmark.
The narrative explores the development of Black Bottom from 1914 to 1951, highlighting its significance as a refuge for Black migrants escaping Southern racism. This community transformed into a vibrant social, cultural, and economic hub during the World Wars, embodying resilience and the spirit of self-help among its residents. Despite facing numerous challenges, the struggles of Black Bottom's inhabitants fostered a strong sense of unity, ultimately shaping it into a robust and viable community marked by both triumph and adversity.
The book offers a visual journey through a specific region, showcasing its rich history and cultural heritage. Through a collection of photographs and informative captions, it highlights significant events, notable figures, and everyday life that have shaped the community. Readers will gain insight into the evolution of the area and the stories behind its landmarks, making it a valuable resource for history enthusiasts and locals alike.
Exploring the lesser-known tales of Detroit's rich heritage, this book highlights the city's evolution from its founding in 1701 through its industrial boom. It showcases influential figures like Albert Kahn, Mary Chase Stratton, and Henry Ford II, who shaped the city's commerce, culture, and art. As it uncovers forgotten stories, the narrative emphasizes Detroit's significant contributions to various industries, including fur trading and automobile manufacturing, while reflecting on the city's historical impact and legacy.
Set in 1824, the establishment of a homestead in what is now downtown Ann Arbor marks the beginning of the town's rich history. The community's name is whimsically attributed to the founders' wives, though they were never in town simultaneously. The narrative highlights the contributions of early settlers who developed essential infrastructure, including schools, a courthouse, and streetcar lines. Their legacy is woven into the fabric of the town, evident in its streets and neighborhoods, reflecting the growth and evolution of Ann Arbor over the years.
The narrative explores the transformation of Manistee from a booming lumber town to a cultural hub between 1860 and 1900. Wealth generated from lumbering attracted self-made millionaires and fostered a rich cultural scene, complete with elegant architecture and vibrant community activities. The influx of immigrants seeking opportunity led to the establishment of diverse communities. As the lumber industry waned, Manistee adapted by developing new industries, ensuring its continued growth and appeal as a tourist destination while embracing a promising future.
