MICHIGAN HISTORY & CULTURE

When planning a trip in Michigan, think about following the history and cultural trails to learn more about this state, which has a Latin motto that translates into, If you seek a beautiful peninsula, look about you. Michigan has a rich history and culture, which it celebrates in its many museums and festivals. The two best places to learn about Michigan from its pre-historic through industrial roots are the Michigan State University Museum and the Michigan History Museum in Lansing. Both museums feature the natural origins and Native American history of Michigan. Michiganders and visitors to Michigan, who want to learn more about the Native American roots in the State, should visit Chief Blackbird Museum (Harbor Springs), Mackinac Island and Mackinaw City, and various tribal bands, like the Grand Traverse Band, to participate in ceremonies, enjoy the art, and study the literature.

European explorations and settlements in Michigan began with the French whose influence can be seen in the names of the communities and on Mackinac Island. The Leelanau County Historical Museum has information on the early French settlements in northern Michigan. Other European settlers tended to cluster in very specific areas, like the Germans near Frankenmuth, Dutch in Holland, and Finnish in the Upper Peninsula. Communities all over Michigan have historical museums that celebrate their cultural heritages and special contributions to the State. Additionally, Michigan communities also have festivals that celebrate their histories, cultures, and music such as the Wheatland Music Festival. Middle Eastern immigrants in southeastern Michigan also enjoy sharing their culture and heritage.

The economic history is tied to its natural resources such as water, cooper, and lumber. Visitors to Sault Ste. Marie can learn about the Michigan seafaring history of commercial trade on the Great Lakes. In Paradise on Whitefish Bay, which is just west of the Sault, honors Great Lakes shipping, memorializes sailors, and lighthouses. Michigan has lots of lighthouses scattered along its long coastline. In Glen Haven in Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore features the rescue history of Lake Michigan. To learn about the lumbering history, visit Hartwick Pines. The Henry Ford with Greenfield Village and Henry Ford Museum features the history of the settlement of the United States and the history of innovation. It also has special seasonal events.

Michigan supports a rich artistic and musical culture. Detroit has its Symphony and Institute of Art with original murals and famous works of the grand masters. Detroit also has the Detroit Artists Market, Pewabic Pottery, and many galleries. Throughout Michigan, visitors can find wonderful fine arts museums and art schools, including the Dennos Museum, Cranbrook Institutions, Interlochen Center for the Arts, and Kendall School of Design only to name a few. Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids combine the natural beauty and artistic beauty. Many Michigan communities have art festivals such as Suttons Bay, E. Lansing, Ann Arbor, and Alpena.

Michigan has something special to celebrate its history and culture every weekend, so enjoy learning about this great state.