Episodes
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Built to Last: The Story of Trinity Episcopal Church
In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, Tharan and Robin return to Mackinac Island’s religious history to explore Trinity Episcopal Church, a congregation whose story began decades before its Victorian Gothic church was built in 1882. The story begins in 1837, when Bishop Jackson Kemper, the...
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The Bongas: The First Hosts of Mackinac Island
In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, Tharan and Robin uncover one of Mackinac Island’s most overlooked stories: Jean and Jeanne Bonga, a Black couple whose lives reveal a little-known chapter of slavery, freedom, and entrepreneurship on the Great Lakes frontier. The episode begins in the...
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Furs, Fortunes, and a Hole in a Man's Stomach: Market Street and the American Fur Company
In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, Tharan and Robin uncover two stories connected by one street on Mackinac Island: the rise of the North American fur trade and the accidental shooting that helped transform medical science. First, they explore Market Street at the height of the fur…
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The Biddle House: Where Two Worlds Built One Life
In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, Tharan and Robin step inside the Biddle House, the oldest surviving structure on Mackinac Island, to uncover the story of a remarkable building and an even more remarkable woman. Dating to the 1780s, the house was constructed using the rare French...
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Sentinel: The Story of the Round Island Lighthouse
In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, Tharan and Robin step just off Mackinac Island to uncover the story of the Round Island Lighthouse, the red brick tower seen by thousands of ferry passengers every year but understood by very few. Built in 1895 to help ships navigate the dangerous…
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The Little Stone Church: Built from the Island Itself
In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, Tharan and Robin slow things down to explore one of Mackinac Island’s quieter landmarks: the Little Stone Church, officially known as Union Congregational Church. Built in 1904 from glacial fieldstones gathered by hand from the island itself, the church...
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The Porch Where History Was Made: The Mackinac Conferences
In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, Tharan and Robin uncover how Mackinac Island became the backdrop for two major political and business gatherings whose influence reached far beyond northern Michigan. First, they travel back to 1943, when Republican leaders gathered at the Grand Hotel...
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Still Grand: The Musser Era, the Movies, and the Legacy of the Grand Hotel"
In Part Two of Michigan Hidden History’s Grand Hotel series, Tharan and Robin continue the story of Mackinac Island’s most iconic hotel by exploring the people, films, traditions, and restoration efforts that shaped the Grand into what it is today. The episode begins with the Musser family, who...
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The Grand Gamble: How the Grand Hotel Almost Didn't Make It"
In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, Tharan and Robin explore the surprising story behind one of Michigan’s most recognizable landmarks: the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. Opened in 1887 by a partnership of railroad and steamship companies, the Grand Hotel was built to attract travelers…
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Scouts, Soldiers & Sluggers: The Hidden Stories of Fort Mackinac
In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, Tharan and Robin return to Mackinac Island to uncover two remarkable stories connected by the same historic ground at Fort Mackinac. First, discover the origins of the Governor’s Honor Guard, which began in 1929 with eight Eagle Scouts, including a…
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Rerun The Starr Family: Cowbells, Bricks, and the Spirits That Never Left
Uncover the fascinating history of the Starr family, a prominent name in Michigan's past. Known for their entrepreneurial spirit and community involvement, the Starrs have left an indelible mark on the region. This episode explores their journey from humble beginnings to becoming influential...
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Rerun St. Paul Lutheran Church: When Your Church Started as an Orphanage and You Built It Yourself
Discover the inspiring story of St. Paul Church in Royal Oak, a beacon of faith and community in Michigan. This episode explores the church's rich history, from its founding to its role as a spiritual and cultural hub. Learn about the dedicated leaders and parishioners who have shaped its mission...
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Rerun The Saginaw Trail: Michigan's Most Important Road- From Dirt Road to Boulevard.
Continue the journey with Part 2 of our exploration of the Saginaw Trail, as we delve deeper into its historical significance and the pivotal role it played in Michigan's expansion. This episode focuses on the trail's transformation during the 19th century, highlighting its impact on settlement...
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Rerun The Saginaw Trail: Michigan's Most Important Road- The Ancient Highway.
Embark on a journey through history with Part 1 of our exploration of the Saginaw Trail, a historic route that has played a crucial role in Michigan's development. This episode delves into the origins of the trail, tracing its roots back to the indigenous peoples who first traversed it. Discover...
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Rerun The Perry Hotel: Fireproof Dreams and the Last Dance in Petoskey
Discover the enduring legacy of the Perry Hotel in Petoskey, Michigan, a historic gem that has stood the test of time. From its creation by a dentist-turned-hotelier to its role as a vibrant social hub, the Perry Hotel's story is one of resilience, community, and charm. Join us as we explore its...
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Rerun: Little Traverse Bay: Petoskey Stones, Dry Forests, and the Chief Who Named a City
Little Traverse Bay wasn’t always a bay. In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, we explore how ancient seas, glaciers, and fossilized coral shaped northern Michigan, and how the Odawa people built thriving communities along its shores. From Petoskey stones and crooked trees to railroads,...
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Rerun: Fred A. Baker: The Lawyer from Holly Who Built the Bronx
Dive into the intriguing life of Fred A. Baker, a pivotal figure in Michigan's history. Known for his contributions to the development of Petoskey and his role in the local economy, Baker's legacy is one of innovation and community impact. Explore his journey from a local businessman to a key...
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Rerun: The Charlevoix Chronicles: Sacred Stones, Secret Missions, and Survival
Charlevoix isn't just sailboats and sunsets—it's 12,000 years of incredible history hiding beneath the Instagram filters. In this episode, we're diving deep into the layered past of one of Michigan's most scenic towns. From ancient Anishnabek trade routes and sacred Spirit Rocks to a French…
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Rerun: First Presbyterian Church of Northville: When a Revolutionary War Veteran Said "We Need a Church"
This episode explores the rich history of the First Presbyterian Church of Northville, Michigan, detailing its founding by Revolutionary War veteran Joseph Yerkes in 1829, its growth and development over the years, and the significant impact of Reverend James Dubar. The narrative highlights the...
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Update on the reruns
This is an update on how episodes are released for the next two months
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Blood on the Bluff: The War of 1812 and the Battle for Mackinac Island
Explore the fascinating history of Mackinac Island during the War of 1812, including surprise attacks, strategic fortifications, and the legacy of Major Holmes. Discover how this pivotal location shaped regional and military history, often overlooked in mainstream narratives. Chapters 00:00...
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Sacred Ground: The Anishinaabek and the Soul of Mackinac Island
Before the fudge, the forts, and the ferry rides, Mackinac Island was sacred ground. In the Season 10 premiere, Tharan and new co-host Robin explore the thousand-year history of the Anishinaabek people — their spiritual connection to the island, their ancient burial traditions, and the long fight...
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Northville: From Grist Mills to Henry Ford's Village Industries (And Where Joe Louis Trained)
summary This episode explores the rich history of Northville, Michigan, from its early settlement in 1823 to its transformation into a thriving city. The narrative covers key developments such as the establishment of the first mill, the impact of electric streetcars, Henry Ford's factory, and the...
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"The White Plague: Maybury Sanatorium and Michigan's War on Tuberculosis"
This episode of Michigan Hidden History explores the Mayberry Sanatorium, a tuberculosis treatment facility in Northfield Township, Michigan. The host, Tharan Suvarna, delves into the history of tuberculosis in Detroit, the life and contributions of William H. Mayberry, and the unique features of...
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Detroit Edison in Northville: From Gas Lamps to Wind Farms (And Teaching People How Toasters Work)
Summary This episode explores the transformative journey of electricity in Michigan, focusing on the history of the Detroit Edison Company, its evolution into DTE Energy, and the impact on the community. From the introduction of gas lighting in the 1850s to the establishment of electric power in...
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First Presbyterian Church of Northville: When a Revolutionary War Veteran Said "We Need a Church"
summary This episode explores the rich history of the First Presbyterian Church of Northville, Michigan, detailing its founding by Revolutionary War veteran Joseph Yerkes in 1829, its growth and development over the years, and the significant impact of Reverend James Dubar. The narrative…
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Royal Oak: From Royal Tree to Greenwich Village
Discover the rich history of Royal Oak, Michigan, from its origins as a legendary tree to a vibrant city. This episode explores the city's transformation through stories of resilience, innovation, and community. Learn about the influential figures and events that shaped Royal Oak, and how its…
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St. Mary Catholic Cemetery: When Your Bishop Has Drama and Your Statue Takes a Road Trip
Explore the serene and historical St. Mary Catholic Cemetery in Royal Oak, Michigan, a sacred space that reflects the community's rich heritage. This episode delves into the cemetery's origins, its significance as a resting place for generations of parishioners, and the notable figures interred...
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Royal Oak Township Cemetery: Where Everyone Was Equal (Even If America Wasn't)
Explore the intriguing history of the Royal Oak Township Cemetery, a resting place that holds the stories of a community's past. This episode delves into the cemetery's origins, its significance as a historical landmark, and the notable figures interred there. Discover the cultural and historical...
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St. Paul Lutheran Church: When Your Church Started as an Orphanage and You Built It Yourself
Discover the inspiring story of St. Paul Church in Royal Oak, a beacon of faith and community in Michigan. This episode explores the church's rich history, from its founding to its role as a spiritual and cultural hub. Learn about the dedicated leaders and parishioners who have shaped its mission...
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The Detroit Zoo: Elephants, Ethics, and the World's Largest Penguin Palace
Step into the wild with our latest episode exploring the fascinating world of the zoo. Discover the history and evolution of zoos, from their origins as royal menageries to modern conservation centers. This episode delves into the role zoos play in wildlife preservation, education, and research,...
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The Saginaw Trail: Michigan's Most Important Road- Then and Now
Conclude our exploration of the Saginaw Trail with Part 3, focusing on its modern-day significance and the lasting impact it has had on Michigan's cultural and economic landscape. This episode examines how the trail has been preserved and commemorated, highlighting its role in connecting...
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The Saginaw Trail: Michigan's Most Important Road- From Dirt Road to Boulevard.
Continue the journey with Part 2 of our exploration of the Saginaw Trail, as we delve deeper into its historical significance and the pivotal role it played in Michigan's expansion. This episode focuses on the trail's transformation during the 19th century, highlighting its impact on settlement...
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The Saginaw Trail: Michigan's Most Important Road- The Ancient Highway.
Embark on a journey through history with Part 1 of our exploration of the Saginaw Trail, a historic route that has played a crucial role in Michigan's development. This episode delves into the origins of the trail, tracing its roots back to the indigenous peoples who first traversed it. Discover...
-
The Starr Family: Cowbells, Bricks, and the Spirits That Never Left
Uncover the fascinating history of the Starr family, a prominent name in Michigan's past. Known for their entrepreneurial spirit and community involvement, the Starrs have left an indelible mark on the region. This episode explores their journey from humble beginnings to becoming influential...
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Fred A. Baker: The Lawyer from Holly Who Built the Bronx
Dive into the intriguing life of Fred A. Baker, a pivotal figure in Michigan's history. Known for his contributions to the development of Petoskey and his role in the local economy, Baker's legacy is one of innovation and community impact. Explore his journey from a local businessman to a key...
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Petoskey: Sunrise, Stones, and the Stories We Almost Forgot
Explore the captivating history of Petoskey, Michigan, a city rich with stories of resilience and transformation. From its roots as a key location for the Ottawa people to its development into a bustling resort town, Petoskey has been shaped by diverse influences. Discover the tales of Chief...
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The Perry Hotel: Fireproof Dreams and the Last Dance in Petoskey
Discover the enduring legacy of the Perry Hotel in Petoskey, Michigan, a historic gem that has stood the test of time. From its creation by a dentist-turned-hotelier to its role as a vibrant social hub, the Perry Hotel's story is one of resilience, community, and charm. Join us as we explore its...
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Little Traverse Bay: Petoskey Stones, Dry Forests, and the Chief Who Named a City
Little Traverse Bay wasn’t always a bay. In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, we explore how ancient seas, glaciers, and fossilized coral shaped northern Michigan, and how the Odawa people built thriving communities along its shores. From Petoskey stones and crooked trees to railroads,...
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The Charlevoix Chronicles: Sacred Stones, Secret Missions, and Survival
Charlevoix isn't just sailboats and sunsets—it's 12,000 years of incredible history hiding beneath the Instagram filters. In this episode, we're diving deep into the layered past of one of Michigan's most scenic towns. From ancient Anishnabek trade routes and sacred Spirit Rocks to a French…
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The Bell, the Glass, and the Stick Style: Charlevoix’s Hidden Church Gem
Before Charlevoix was known for yachts and fudge shops, it had a half-ton bell, stained glass older than your grandma, and a church that dared to rock Stick Style architecture. In this episode, we uncover the story behind the First Congregational Church, built in 1885, expanded with bake sale...
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Decades of Cheese: The Green Bay Packers from the '60s to Now
In Part 2 of our Lambeau love-hate saga, we break down the Green Bay Packers decade by decade. From Lombardi’s golden age to the Brett Favre rollercoaster and the Aaron Rodgers ayahuasca years, this team has seen it all — dynasties, disasters, and… Jordan Love? We cover every Super Bowl…
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Lambeau Field: The Frozen Cathedral of Football
Before there were luxury boxes and retractable roofs, there was Lambeau where the turf is frozen, the cheese is sacred, and the fans never sit down. In this episode, we take a walk through the history of the oldest stadium in the NFL. From Curly to Lombardi, ice bowls to beer brats, this is the...
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The Minnesota Vikings: Almost Legends, Always Purple
From the days of Fran Tarkenton to the Minneapolis Miracle, the Vikings have always been the bridesmaid, never the bride and as a Lions fan, I’m not letting them forget it. In this episode, we break down the team that’s built dynasties without rings, conquered divisions without trophies, and…
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Whistles and Waterfalls: The Story of Minnehaha Depot & the Minnesota Central Railway
All aboard for a trip back in time! This episode explores how a tiny yellow depot near a waterfall became a rail hub for adventurers, lovebirds, and curious tourists. From the boom of 19th-century rail to the quiet hum of preservation efforts, we trace the legacy of the Minnesota Central Railway...
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Badlands National Park – Part 2: Bombs, Bison, and a Big Mess
We’re back in the Badlands but this time, it’s Cold War missile silos, bison rescues, and modern-day drama. From military secrets to ecological restoration, this episode digs into the messier chapters of Badlands history.
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“Badlands National Park – Part 1: Dirt, Dinosaurs, and Displacement”
Before the missile silos and prairie dogs, the Badlands were home to mammoths, mosasaurs, and mighty storms of U.S. government ambition. In this first part of our journey through Badlands National Park, we go back—way back—to ancient seas, fossil fields, and the earliest human inhabitants. We dig...
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Mount Rushmore: Carving Controversy and Legacy
Join us as we explore the creation of Mount Rushmore, from its sacred beginnings in the Black Hills to its transformation into a national icon. Discover the stories behind the monumental faces, the controversies surrounding its construction, and the ongoing debates about its cultural impact.
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Bighorn Canyon: Untamed Beauty and Hidden Histories
It is my 30th birthday!!! Explore the underrated wonders of Bighorn Canyon, where epic geology meets ancient history. Discover the stories of indigenous tribes, legendary trappers, and the indomitable Caroline Lockhart. From wild horses to dramatic cliffs, this hidden gem offers a unique blend of...
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Grand Teton National Park: Peaks, Pioneers, and Preservation
Join us as we explore the dramatic landscapes and rich history of Grand Teton National Park. From its geological wonders and indigenous heritage to the bold conservation efforts of John D. Rockefeller Jr., discover the stories that shaped this iconic American landscape.
About this show
We all see the historical markers in the great state of Michigan so what do they mean and what significance did Michigan play in US history.This is the website: https://michiganhiddenhistory.wordpress.com/
Hosted by
Tharan Komarraju Suvarna
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