Podcast Episodes
Back to SearchCanoe Cussing & Free Speech in Michigan | July 5
Episode 1585
On this day in 2002, Michigan’s Court of Appeals struck down a law banning public cursing, ruling it protected speech—thanks to one canoeist’s colorf…
1 month, 4 weeks ago
British at Detroit & Grand Rapids’ Balloon | July 4
Episode 1584
On this day in 1783, Britain held onto Fort Detroit. In 1859, Grand Rapids saw its first hot air balloon flight, and in 1969, Mackinac Island hosted …
1 month, 4 weeks ago
Royal Visit & Michigan’s First Librarian | July 3
Episode 1583
On this day in 1959, Queen Elizabeth visited Detroit for the first Freedom Festival. In 1828, Henry Schoolcraft became Michigan’s first territorial l…
2 months ago
Garfield’s Shooting & a U-M Connection | July 2
Episode 1582
On this day in 1881, President James A. Garfield was shot by Charles Guiteau—a former U-M student—leading to civil service reform after Garfield’s de…
2 months ago
MSU’s Name Change & U-M’s Opposition | July 1
Episode 1581
On this day in 1955, Michigan State College officially became Michigan State University after a long push for recognition—and despite resistance from…
2 months ago
Tashmoo Park & The Message in a Bottle | June 30
Episode 1580
On this day in 1915, Selina Pramstaller and Tillie Esper of Detroit wrote a note at Tashmoo Park, sealed it in a bottle, and cast it into the St. Cla…
2 months ago
Custer’s Rise & Michigan’s Pollution Fight | June 29
Episode 1579
On this day in 1863, Monroe native George Armstrong Custer was promoted to brigadier general and took command of the Michigan Cavalry Brigade, playin…
2 months ago
Petoskey Stone & Mackinac Bridge Dedication | June 28
Episode 1578
On this day in 1965, Michigan made the unique Petoskey Stone its official state rock, with a historic signing attended by Ella Jane Petoskey, grandda…
2 months ago
College World Series & Teju Cole’s Birth | June 27
Episode 1577
On this day in 1947, the first College World Series baseball games took place in Kalamazoo, Michigan, where the University of California swept Yale, …
2 months, 1 week ago
Michigan Flag & State Motto Unveiled | June 26
Episode 1576
On this day in 1911, Michigan adopted its current state flag, featuring the coat of arms with symbols of peace, defense, and wildlife — all topped wi…
2 months, 1 week ago