Michigan Minute

On this day in 1943, we reflect on the 1943 march in Detroit against Jim Crow laws and celebrate the birth of James Vernor Sr., creator of Vernor's Ginger Ale, born in 1843. Vernor's ginger ale became a beloved Michigan staple with its "Deliciously Different" flavor. This march was particularly significant for those contributing to the war effort at Willow Run Airport.

On this day in 1822, Caroline Kiner, aka Elsa Von Blumen, visited Michigan. She was a famous high-wheeled bicyclist, known for her exhibitions on the Penny Farthing. In Detroit, she aimed to ride 1000 miles in six days, inspiring many girls and young women at the start of the suffrage movement.

On this day in 2017, the Red Wings closed out their 38-year residency at Joe Louis Arena with a 4-1 victory over the New Jersey Devils. Fans celebrated by hurling 35 octopuses on the ice. Also, in 1877, ragtime pianist Hughie Cannon was born in Detroit, Michigan, and gained fame in Jackson.

On this day in 1957, the Lansing Board of Education endorsed the establishment of Lansing Community College. The first class was a math refresher course with 32 students, and the opening semester saw 425 students enrolled in various programs.

On this day in 1947, Henry Ford, founder of the Ford Motor Company, died at his residence in Dearborn, Michigan. Ford's innovations, including the Model T and the assembly line, revolutionized the automotive industry and created jobs for thousands. His funeral saw 5,000 people passing his coffin every hour.

On this day in 1862, Private George Sidman, a drummer boy from Owosso, received the Congressional Medal of Honor for heroism on a Civil War battlefield. At 16, Sidman fought off the enemy and carried the 3rd Brigade’s new flag in a charge at Fredericksburg, where he was wounded.

On this day in 1947, Flint experienced one of its worst disasters as rising waters caused severe flooding, sweeping furniture and appliances into the river. The flood caused $10 million in damages, equivalent to $118 million today. Also, in 1882, Wexford County voted to move the county seat from Manton to Cadillac, leading to the "Battle of Manton" where armed residents tried to retain the county records. Despite injuries, the vote to choose Cadillac was upheld.

On this day in 1871, Nannette Gardner became the first Michigan woman to vote in a general election. As a wealthy widow, she convinced Detroit City Officials to allow her to vote since she had no husband to represent her interests. Her story gained fame, and she expressed surprise at the attention, noting that many men vote without comment.

On this day in 1940, Isle Royale was established as a national park. It consists of one large island and over 200 smaller islands in Lake Superior, accessible only by boat or float plane. The park's isolation and natural beauty provide a habitat for timber wolves and moose. The waters of Isle Royale also contain several well-preserved shipwrecks, thanks to the area's harsh weather and cold, fresh water.

On this day in 1954, Michigan State University got its name. The Detroit Free Press reported that Michigan Attorney General Thomas Kavanagh ruled there was no constitutional provision prohibiting Michigan State College from changing its name to Michigan State University. And on this day in 1992, scientists announced the discovery of one of Earth’s largest and oldest organisms living in Michigan—a giant fungus near Crystal Falls, covering 38 acres and weighing roughly 100 tons.