On this day in 1881, a massive firestorm in Michigan's Thumb burned over a million acres, killing at least 282 people. In 1959, the Mackinac Bridge Walk was moved to Labor Day, with Governor G. Mennen Williams leading the 4.5-mile walk across the "Mighty Mac."

Michigan's 1881 Firestorm and the Mackinac Bridge Walk | September 5

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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Michigan's 1881 Firestorm and the Mackinac Bridge Walk | September 5

Michigan's 1881 Firestorm and the Mackinac Bridge Walk | September 5

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