In this episode I explore the history of two philanthropists: Andrew Carnegie and Dolly Parton whose charitable work impacted libraries and early learning in Michigan.

For more information on the Imagination Library, visit:

https://imaginationlibrary.com/

For more information on Michael Delaware, visit:

https://michaeldelaware.com

In this episode I explore the life of Mary S. Coleman, the first woman elected to the Michigan Supreme Court, and the first woman to be selected to serve as Chief Justice. The Calhoun County Justice Center was recently re-dedicated in her honor, and today's show showcases some of the highlights from her amazing life.

For more information on Michael Delaware, visit:

https://michaeldelaware.com

In this episode, I explore the history of local celebrity green and yellow Amazon parrot named Polly from St. Joseph, Michigan. The story is a warm and happy one, with a little unexpected drama.

To subscribe to the Michigan History Magazine, visit:

https://www.hsmichigan.org/read/michigan-history

For more information on Michael Delaware, visit:

https://michaeldelaware.com

In this episode, I cover the history of the first and second college World Series which were held in Kalamazoo. The source article was written by Paul M. Keep in the Summer 2006 issue of Chronicle Magazine by the Historical Society of Michigan.

For more information on Michael Delaware, visit:

https://www.michaeldelaware.com

In this episode I explore life in rural schools in pioneer Michigan. I use a reference book from the Eaton County Historical Commission 'Rural Schools of Eaton County Michigan' for the source material.

I discuss rules and information published originally in 1864.

To get a copy of the book mentioned, visit:

https://eatoncountyhistory.org/

For more information on Michael Delaware, visit:

https://michaeldelaware.com

In this episode I relay some history of the Victorian Era circuses in Southwest Michigan with the Van Ambergh Menagerie, and also the origin story of Pink Lemonade.

For more information on Michael Delaware, visit:

https://michaeldelaware.com

The Great Chicago Fire between October 8 - 10th, 1871 is the topic of this episode. During this same time fires in Holland and Manistee, Michigan destroyed those cities.

I explore the impact of those fires, the effects and reaction across Southwest Michigan following the event, as well as first hand accounts of the reporters.

For more information on Michael Delaware, visit:

https://michaeldelaware.com

In this episode, I explore the Historical lenses used to explore history, beginning with the common frameworks of Social, Political and Economic factors. I also discuss the importance of understanding the religious, moral, legal and other lenses such as bias that one might encounter in the study of history.

I also discuss how important it is to approach all history with the lens of curiousity above all others.

For more information on Michael Delaware, visit:

https://michaeldelaware.com

In this episode, Brenna Pixley and Ashley Kloote join me from Earthcraft, and organization based in Scotts, Michigan which is dedicated to Ancestral Skillshare which includes experiential learning, intergenerational exchange and an effort to build an enduring community.

Also in the program is archeologist Tom Talbot who will be presenting a program 'Mysteries in Stone' at the upcoming Earthcraft event happening July 9th -12th, 2026.

For more information on the Earthcraft organization and the upcoming program schedule visit: earthcraftskillshare.com

If you would to attend the program and receive a discount: Use code :TALES For 20% off all ticket (excluding meal) 

For more information on Michael Delaware, visit:

MichaelDelaware.com

In this episode I explore the history of the Michigan Soldiers Home and Cemetery in Grand Rapids. I refer to an article published in the Michigan History Magazine of July/August 2026 written by Bruce Kalish.

For information on how to subscribe the Michigan History Magazine visit: https://www.hsmichigan.org/read/michigan-history

For more information on Michael Delaware, visit:

https://michaeldelaware.com