Michigan helped introduce painted center lines on roads after a simple milk wagon spill inspired one of the most important traffic safety ideas in history.
June 9 in History: Donald Duck Debuts, Secretariat Wins the Triple Crown, and the Soo Locks Become Free
On June 9 in history, Donald Duck debuted, Secretariat captured the Triple Crown, the Soo Locks became toll-free, and Pixar’s “Cars” premiered in theaters. (READ MORE)
June 5 in History: Elvis Debuts Hound Dog, the First AIDS Cases Are Reported, and Ronald Reagan Dies
On June 5 in history, Elvis debuted “Hound Dog,” the first recognized AIDS cases were reported, Robert F. Kennedy was shot, and Ronald Reagan died at age 93. (READ MORE)
June 4 in History: Henry Ford’s First Test Drive, the Apple II Debuts, and SpaceX Launches Falcon 9
On June 4 in history, Henry Ford tested his Quadricycle, the Apple II went on sale, SpaceX launched Falcon 9, and the Cleveland Indians forfeited the infamous 10 Cent Beer Night game. (READ MORE)
May 1, 1926: How Henry Ford Helped Create the 40-Hour Workweek
On May 1, 1926, Henry Ford introduced the five-day, 40-hour workweek—an idea that reshaped American labor and started in Michigan.
April 29, 1813: The Simple Invention That Helped Build Michigan’s Auto Empire
An early rubber patent on April 29, 1813 helped lay the foundation for Michigan’s automotive industry, where rubber became essential to building cars.
March 20, 1897: The Detroit Dime Store That Became Kmart
Kmart began as a small Detroit dime store in 1897. Today, only a handful of stores remain — but its impact on retail is everywhere.