Today in 1951, neurosurgeon and political figure Ben Carson was born in Detroit, Michigan. Carson later gained prominence as a presidential candidate and HUD Secretary. On September 18, 1918, Hazel Stimson became the first Michigan woman to enlist in the Marines during WWI, serving 14 months before her honorable discharge.

Ben Carson's Birthday & Hazel Stimson | September 18

Today in 2016, Nashville, Michigan reclaimed the world record for the longest ice cream sundae with a 3,656-foot creation. In 1962, Paul Feig was born in Mount Clemens, Michigan. Feig is renowned for directing comedies like Bridesmaids and creating Freaks and Geeks, inspired by his own high school days in the fictional suburb of Chippewa.

Record Ice Cream Sundae & Paul Feig | September 17

Today in 1944, Yooper Sergeant Oscar Johnson of Foster City earned the Medal of Honor for his valor in WWII. Johnson later farmed and attended Michigan State University, with the Iron Mountain VA Medical Center named in his honor. On the same date in 1972, Dennis Franklin became the University of Michigan's first Black quarterback, leading the Wolverines to victory against Northwestern.

Yooper Medal of Honor & U-M’s First Black QB | September 16

Today in 1886, Michigan Mining School held its first classes in Houghton Fire Hall, evolving into Michigan Tech. Meanwhile, in 1878, Michigan's first phone book, "List of Subscribers," was published in Detroit with 124 listings, predating the US's earliest phone book by months.

Michigan Tech’s Start & First Phone Book | September 15

On this day in 1930, Detroit Mayor Charles Bowles was recalled over corruption and KKK ties. And in 1911, the first Boy Scouts arrived at Camp Owasippe near Sleeping Bear Dunes.

Detroit’s Recall & Scouts at Crystal Lake | July 22

On this day in 1951, Robin Williams was born. Before becoming an Oscar-winning actor, he spent his teen years in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, excelling in school and sports.

Robin Williams’ Roots & Bloomfield Hills | July 21

On this day in 1977, Michigan required hunters to wear fluorescent orange. And in 2013, trailblazing journalist Helen Thomas, a Wayne State alum, passed away at age 92.

Hunter Orange Law & Helen Thomas’ Legacy | July 20

On this day in 1909, Michigander Neal Ball made MLB’s first unassisted triple play. And in 1838, a massive canal project began—only to be abandoned years later.

Triple Play History & Michigan’s Lost Canal | July 19

On this day in 1885, Harbor Beach Lighthouse began service. In 2013, Detroit filed for bankruptcy. And in 1980, actress Kristen Bell was born in Huntington Woods.

Detroit’s Bankruptcy & Harbor Beach Light | July 18

On this day in 2007, Michigan lost beloved outdoorsman Fred Trost, host of “Michigan Outdoors” and later “Practical Sportsman,” staples of public TV for hunting and fishing fans.

Fred Trost’s Legacy & Michigan Outdoors | July 17

On this day in 1812, British forces captured Fort Mackinac in the first War of 1812 battle on U.S. soil—triggering a swift British takeover of Michigan’s forts.

Mackinac’s Fall & War of 1812 Begins | July 16

On this day in 1929 and 1975, Michigan AG rulings advanced women’s rights. And in 1940, the world’s tallest man, Robert Wadlow, died in Manistee at age 22.

Women’s Rights & World’s Tallest Man | July 15

On this day in 1913, Gerald R. Ford was born. The only U.S. president never elected to the presidency or vice presidency, he represented Michigan in Congress for 25 years

Ford’s Birthday & Michigan’s President | July 14

On this day in 1787, the Northwest Ordinance was enacted, setting the stage for Michigan and other Midwest states to move from territory to statehood with guaranteed rights.

Northwest Ordinance & Michigan’s Path | July 13

WKAR’s Jamie Paisley presents intriguing stories for each day in Michigan history. From name changes and iconic cities to arcane laws, Michigan Minute covers a wide variety of fascinatingly true tales from the Great Lake State. Interested in supporting the Michigan Minute?

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