During the 1840s and 1850s, Henry Bibb became an important voice in Michigan’s growing abolitionist movement. Born into slavery in Kentucky, Bibb endured years of abuse, repeated attempts to escape, and the heartbreaking loss of his wife and daughter, who remained enslaved. After reaching Michigan, he shared his firsthand experiences with audiences across the state, helping expose the cruelty of slavery and strengthen support for abolition.

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Produced by Michigan History Magazine

In the 1830s, Michigan Governor Stevens T. Mason was inspired by the success of New York’s Erie Canal, so he pushed for major improvements to Michigan’s transportation system. His plans included railroads and two canals designed to connect communities across the Lower Peninsula and improve trade; however, the financial panic of 1837 caused serious economic problems, leaving the projects unfinished, yet not forgotten either.

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Produced by Michigan History Magazine

In October 1966, the Beach Boys performed to sold-out crowds at Michigan State University and the University of Michigan during the height of their popularity. At their Ann Arbor concert, the band performed songs from their upcoming album Pet Sounds and introduced the audience to their new single, “Good Vibrations,” before its official release. The show also featured a special encore when Brian Wilson joined his bandmates onstage to perform Chuck Berry’s “Johnny B. Goode.”

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Produced by Michigan History Magazine