The Upper Thumb has been deemed the “Closer Up North” for Southeast Michigan and Detroit.  Sandy beaches, great fishing, parks, and some of the friendliest proprietors around. Huron County is a great place to steal a weekend away from the "burbs" of Detroit without busting your wallet.   ..read more

Explore the best beaches in Charlevoix, MI, for a perfect family getaway. Unwind on the shores of Lake Michigan, Lake Charlevoix, and Torch Lake, each offering unique experiences. Enjoy activities, amenities, and stunning views that create lasting memories ..read more

We journey through Southwest Michigan’s inland lakes – where each one presents a unique canvas of tranquil beauty and boundless adventure. From fishing to boating, these freshwater wonderlands offer a refreshing escape for outdoor enthusiasts. Discover the vibrant communities, picturesque parks, and annual festivals that make these lakes a must-visit destination ..read more

Port Crescent State Park is one of the largest state parks in southern Michigan. Located at the tip of Michigan’s “Thumb”, along three miles of sandy shoreline of Lake Huron, the park offers excellent camping, fishing, canoeing, hiking, cross-country skiing, birding, and hunting opportunities. However, a little-known aspect of this park, is that it sits on the location of a ghost town ..read more

The 20th President of the United States, James Garfield, did not build or own this 1850s landmark Inn in Port Austin, Michigan. But he was a rather frequent visitor. The fascinating history of the Inn really resides with the family that built the house, Charles and Maria Learned ..read more

There it sits — a lush tree-lined island on the horizon of Saginaw Bay. Big and Little Charity Islands are ten miles from the western shore of Michigan’s Thumb. Except for a couple of seasonal residents who live and host tours at the lighthouse keepers house, the island is uninhabited. These islands are considered, by the US Fish and Wildlife Services, has one of the more remote and least visited islands in the Michigan Island National Wildlife Sanctuary. Visitors are few due to the bolder filled and treacherous shallow waters that surround the island. Yet Charity Island has a fascinating hist ..read more

George W. Jenks, a figure of significance in the Michigan Thumb region, lived a life intertwined with history. From his early days as a Civil War soldier to his prosperous business endeavors, Jenks made an indelible mark. This article delves into his life, highlighting his service and entrepreneurial spirit providing insights into a fascinating chapter of Michigan’s past ..read more

We explore the intriguing life of Jeremiah Jenks, a Michigan pioneer whose vision transformed the Thumb region. His story is a blend of entrepreneurship and community, shaping the very heart of Michigan’s history ..read more

We found Carl Heisterman’s life, a riveting story of a Prussian translator who shaped Michigan’s early days. From battlefields, founder of early Bay Port and political arenas, his journey is an amazing story of the diverse fabric of 19th-century America ..read more

Should You Stop Using Them Now if You Have These Vintage Corelle Dishes in Your Cottage, Camper, or Cabin? - We love our vintage Corelle dishes. They are the same brand that I had growing up as a kid. However, we will be getting rid of them ASAP. Here is why ..read more