The Question
How about a little Michigan history via AI? I recently asked an AI app the following:
“When it comes to Michigan history, what are some of the most surprising facts about the state and/or people that you think most folks may not be aware of?”
The Response
Michigan has a rich and quirky history, and there are quite a few surprising facts that even locals might not know. Here are some of the most unexpected and intriguing:
1. Michigan once went to war with Ohio — the “Toledo War”
In the 1830s, Michigan and Ohio nearly came to blows over a narrow strip of land known as the Toledo Strip. Though it was bloodless (only one minor stabbing), both sides mustered militias. Ultimately, Michigan gave up the Toledo area but was awarded the western Upper Peninsula in return — land that turned out to be rich in copper and iron.
2. The UP was almost its own state
In the 1850s and again in the 1970s, serious discussions (and even formal proposals) were made for the Upper Peninsula to become its own state, potentially named ‘Superior.’
3. Detroit was the original “Paris of the Midwest”
Before the auto boom, Detroit was known for its elegant boulevards and architecture, much of it designed by French and Beaux-Arts architects. Its layout was even inspired by L’Enfant’s plan for Washington, D.C.
4. Michigan is technically two peninsulas, but it has more lighthouses than any other state
With over 120 lighthouses, Michigan’s strategic position on the Great Lakes has given it the most lighthouse structures in the U.S. Many are still operational and can be visited today.
5. In 1927, a Michigan school bombing was the deadliest in U.S. history
The Bath School disaster near Lansing was a tragic event where a disgruntled school board member set off explosives, killing 45 people, including 38 children. It remains the deadliest school massacre in American history.
6. Vernor’s Ginger Ale is older than Coca-Cola
Created in Detroit in 1866, Vernor’s is believed to be the oldest continuously sold soda in the U.S. It was originally marketed as a health tonic.
7. Michigan has a floating post office — the only one in the world
The J.W. Westcott II, based in Detroit, delivers mail to passing ships on the Detroit River using a rope and bucket system. It even has its own ZIP code: 48222.
8. Henry Ford paid workers double — but it wasn’t just about generosity
In 1914, Ford shocked the nation by offering $5 a day (double the standard wage). While seen as generous, it was also strategic — it reduced turnover, increased productivity, and ensured workers could afford the cars they built.
9. There are more miles of freshwater shoreline in Michigan than anywhere else in the world
With 3,288 miles of Great Lakes coastline, Michigan beats out even Alaska in freshwater shore. You’re never more than six miles from a lake or stream.
10. The state once had its own “wine rebellion”
In the early 20th century, prohibition and federal regulations almost destroyed Michigan’s budding wine industry. But a few resilient wineries in the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas kept it alive — today, the region is gaining national acclaim.
Thanks for visiting the website and I hope you enjoyed some Michigan history via AI.
About the Author
Ken Bouchard is a professional technology consultant focused on helping artisans, entrepreneurs and small business via AI, geospatial data analytics, and website / eCommerce development.
Additional information may be found here.