On this day in 1896, Henry Ford test drove his first gas-powered vehicle—the Quadricycle—paving the road to the future of automobiles.

On this day in 1943, Michigan’s Hurley Smith patented the pocket protector—creating a simple, smart fix for ink stains and worn-out shirts.

On this day in 2010, Armando Galarraga lost a perfect game on a missed call, resulting in the now-legendary “28-out perfect game.”

On this day in 1863, Michigan began recruiting Native Americans to form Company K, an all-Indigenous Civil War unit that fought with distinction under a live eagle mascot. And in 1910, the Dodge brothers broke ground on their massive Hamtramck factory, transforming the town into a bustling hub of Polish-American industry—until its closure in 1980.

On this day in 1855, the Soo Canal linking Lake Huron and Lake Superior was opened. And in 1884, Dr. John Harvey Kellogg patented wheat flakes, revolutionizing breakfast.

On this day in 1970, Detroit Tiger Al Kaline's life was saved by teammate Willie Horton after a collision on the field. Horton received an award for his quick thinking and bravery.

On this day in 1848, Abraham Lincoln coined the term "Michigander" to describe Lewis Cass, sparking a lasting debate over the correct term for Michigan residents.

On this day in 1957, Detroit Tiger Kirk Gibson was born in Pontiac, Michigan. And in 1851, Sojourner Truth delivered her 'Ain't I A Woman' speech, advocating for women's rights and racial equality.

On this day in 2019, the Michigan Society of the Sons of the American Revolution honored Private James Robinson, a Black soldier in the Revolutionary War and War of 1812, with a bronze marker for his valor.

On this day in 1768, Detroit held its first election, with Philippe Dejean voted as judge and justice of the district. Public records show 31 men voted. And in 1967, Kay E. Whitfield of Pontiac and Noreen E. Hillary of Grand Rapids were sworn in as the first women officers of the Michigan State Police. On this day in 1927, Ford Motor Co. produced the last Model T, ending the production of America’s first mass-produced automobile. The Model T, which captured the nation’s imagination, had more than 15 million units manufactured and held the longest production run until 1972.