# Traverse Regional History Center

> Deep Roots. Immersive Stories.


## Posts

- [A Brief History of the Anishinaabek Culture and Tradition](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/stories/a-brief-history-of-the-anishinaabek-culture-and-tradition/): Centuries before northern Michigan became known for its lumber, cherries, and tourism, the Anishinaabek (or Anisihnaabe) tribes called the area home. Now known as one of the largest and most influential of the Great Lakes indigenous peoples, the Anishinaabe’s story is one of resilience, resistance, and revival. It’s impossible to overstate the importance of Anishinaabe culture and tradition to the region’s identity, and, thankfully, the tribe is enjoying a resurgence thanks to younger generations.  The History of the Anishinaabe Today, the Anishinaabe is well known as a northern Michigan Indigenous tribe, but like other Native groups, it began on the East […]
- [Northwestern Michigan College: A History](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/stories/northwestern-michigan-college-a-history/): For many locals and scholars from around the country, Northwestern Michigan College is a key part of the Traverse City experience. For over five decades, it has been the marquee college in northern Michigan, offering an accessible education and adding measurable value to the local economy. From its grassroots founding to multi-campus footprint across the city, NMC is an important part of the region’s history and identity.  The Early Years of NMC Northwestern Michigan College was founded in 1951 to provide northern Lower Peninsula residents a community college in the region. Until NMC opened its doors, students had no choice but […]
- [The History of Central Grade School](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/stories/the-history-of-central-grade-school/): Central Grade School has seen generations of scholars come through its doors, evolving with the times to meet the needs of the Traverse City community. In 2026, one of the most ambitious renovation projects of the building began, but Central Grade will always be known for its interesting history.  The Big School on Seventh Street Central Grade got its start on Seventh Street as an all-wood school in 1877. Located just a block away from Perry Hannah’s mansion, it was the first operating school established by the local school board.  As Traverse City grew, the school followed. In 1886, a larger […]
- [Must-See Historic Lighthouses in Traverse City](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/stories/must-see-historic-lighthouses-in-traverse-city/): Traverse City is a maritime city, and its rich history of shipping and trade is punctuated by the many beautiful historic lighthouses that dot the region. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of non-profit preservation organizations and generations of volunteers, locals and visitors alike can see, touch, and experience these fascinating facilities in several shoreline communities. The History of Lighthouses in Northern Michigan Michigan was a major player in lumber, mining, and agricultural trade throughout the long 19th century. Great Lakes shipping was crucial to transporting high-quality lumber and copper ore from northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula to Detroit, […]
- [Interlochen History with Steve Tavener](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/oral-histories/interlochen-history-with-steve-tavener/): Steve Tavener taught science at Interlochen Arts Academy for 38 years, including 10 years as Division Chair for Math and Science. He sat with us on July 31, 2025 to share his experiences.
- [Traverse City Cherries: An Agricultural Legacy](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/stories/traverse-city-cherries-an-agricultural-legacy/): Cherry picking is a Traverse City staple, an annual event for locals and visitors alike. While casual picking is a pleasant way to spend a summer morning, Michigan’s cherry growers remain a vital part of the state’s agricultural output and a lynch pin of Traverse City’s identity. Traverse City’s Cherry Industry’s Deep Roots The story of cherries in Traverse City is rich and complex, and the region’s connection to cherries goes well beyond iconic events like the National Cherry Festival. Learn why cherries are grown in northern Michigan and why the fruit is a valued part of our area’s identity.  The […]
- [The History of the State Hospital in Traverse City, Michigan](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/stories/traverse-city-state-hospital/): Today, the Village at Grand Traverse Commons is a thriving mixed-use development, with shops and housing naturally integrated into the historic grounds. Even during peak tourist season, it’s a calming, peaceful place to walk, shop, and experience. Every brick has a story to tell, however, and the history of the Traverse City State Hospital has played an influential role in the community’s development.  Learn more about the old State Hospital in Traverse City, from its initial purpose and promise to its eventual closure and revival. Mental Health’s Early Roots in Traverse City: The State Hospital Opens The history of the Traverse […]
- [The History of Carnegie Libraries](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/stories/the-history-of-carnegie-libraries/): The Carnegie Library in Traverse City is one of the most beloved buildings in the area. Located on Sixth Street overlooking the Boardman River, the original structure is over a century old and feels like a unique part of Traverse City’s history. While it certainly is a part of our community’s social fabric, it’s actually one of hundreds of libraries built by the industrialist Andrew Carnegie.  Carnegie is a complex, controversial historical figure whose philanthropic charitable donations conflict with his checkered record on labor relations and wealth distribution.  Who Was Andrew Carnegie? Born in Scotland, Carnegie immigrated to the US and […]
- [Land and Treaty Rights](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/oral-histories/oral-history-example/): “The woods were the place where I could be comfortable, where I could be myself. Out there, I knew I was connected to something much bigger than myself.” – Hank Bailey In this episode Mark Wilson, Claire Wood, and Jenee Rowe sit down with Hank Bailey, a tribal citizen and elder from the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, as they discuss the Anishinaabe connection to the land and the importance of preserving natural resources. Hank shares his personal experiences growing up in Benzie County and how his relationship with the land has shaped his life and work, including […]
- [Beyond The Frame: Orson Peck & The Docks](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/videos/pre-launch-video/)
- [Oral Histories example post 3](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/oral-histories/oral-histories-example-post-3/): Studying history is valuable because it helps us understand the past, learn from mistakes, and develop critical thinking skills, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
- [Oral Histories example post 2](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/oral-histories/oral-histories-example-post-2/): Studying history is valuable because it helps us understand the past, learn from mistakes, and develop critical thinking skills, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
- [Oral Histories example post](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/oral-histories/oral-histories-example-post/): Studying history is valuable because it helps us understand the past, learn from mistakes, and develop critical thinking skills, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
- [The Elements of the Grand Traverse Region: A Narrative Journey](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/77-elements/the-elements-of-the-grand-traverse-region-a-narrative-journey/): The Elements of the Grand Traverse Region: A Narrative Journey The Grand Traverse region is more than a place—it is a living story written in water, hills, orchards, and memory. Like a table of elements, each aspect of life here contributes to the whole, creating a vibrant cultural and natural identity. Below, we gather these “elements” into themes, weaving them into a narrative that reflects the heart of northern Michigan.     Land & Nature   Work & Craft   Culture & Story   Play & Adventure   Daily Life & Flavor   Sky & Wonder   The Grand Traverse region […]
- [Key to the Elements](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/77-elements/key-to-the-elements/): Antiques (An) Every corner of the region holds echoes of the past—barnwood furniture, iron tools, and lakefront relics whisper stories of pioneers and mariners. Antique shops here aren’t just stores; they are time capsules of Traverse heritage. Architecture (Ar) From Victorian-era homes in Traverse City to rustic barns dotting the Leelanau countryside, the architecture reflects waves of settlement, prosperity, and the steady hand of craftspeople who shaped the land with both utility and beauty. Astronomy (As) Clear northern skies invite star-watchers. Long before modern telescopes, Indigenous peoples read stories in the constellations over Grand Traverse Bay. Today, astronomy clubs and stargazing […]
- [Why History Matters](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/77-elements/why-history-matters/): Studying history is valuable because it helps us understand the past, learn from mistakes, and develop critical thinking skills, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

## Pages

- [NEWS](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/about-us/news/): News item example 1 News item example 2 News item example 3
- [Bloomerang CSS Styling Form test](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/bloomerang-css-styling-form-test/): Facebook Instagram Youtube Facebook Instagram Youtube Is it possible you can style this form to match(as closely as possible) the signup form in the footer? If so, we want to replace the footer form. 
- [test](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/test/): Published Title Author(s) 2025 The Gales of November: The Untold Story of the Edmund Fitzgerald John U. Bacon 2025 A Perfect Omena Day – Selections from the Summer Diaries of Rebecca L. Richmond 1907-1920 M. Christine Byron 2025 The Vacation: A Teenage Migrant Farmworker’s Experience Picking Cherries in Michigan Robert Carlos Fuentes 2025 Slabtown – Traverse City’s Premier Neighborhood Marty Macleod 2025 Stepping Off The Boat – Stories from North Manitou Island Susan Hollister Wasserman 2023 Suttons Bay, Peshawbestown, and Bingham Shores on Grand Traverse Bay Kathleen Firestone 2023 SUNKEN – Shipwrecks of Lake Michigan Kathy Groth 2023 Perry Hannah & […]
- [LEARN](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/learn/): Our catalog of both original and shared content provides in-depth resources for an exploration into the unique history of the Grand Traverse Region. ELEMENTSCHART LEARN MORE VIDEOS &STORIES LEARN MORE ORALHISTORIES LEARN MORE AREAMUSEUMS LEARN MORE BOOKS &AUTHORS LEARN MORE PHOTOGALLERY LEARN MORE
- [SHARE YOUR STORY](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/support/story-sharing/): Sharing Your Story Your Story. Our Story. You can help document and preserve our rich heritage by sharing memories of you and your ancestors’ experiences that have made a lasting impact on your time spent in the Grand Traverse Region.  Oral histories provide a more complete and nuanced understanding of the past by preserving and interpreting the firsthand memories, experience, and perspectives of individuals. They also augment traditional sources like letters, diaries and photographs by adding unique personal insights and perspectives that are not often found in written materials. That’s what defines YOUR place in the history of the Grand Traverse […]
- [ORAL HISTORY RESPOSITORIES](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/learn/oral-history-repositories/): ORAL HISTORIES Videos Stories Oral Histories 77 Elements All
- [STORIES & VIDEOS](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/learn/stories-and-videos/): The Stories of The Grand Traverse Area This collection of curated stories and original video content is a sample of our digital library. Feel free to browse and enjoy. Stories Videos All
- [Books & Authors](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/learn/books-and-authors/): These books can be found on Amazon or Bookshop.org which supports independent book stores, and don’t forget to check with your local bookseller. Our five-county Traverse Region is abundant with stories and events, and many interesting books have been authored, covering everything from the earliest inhabitants and pioneer settlers to pictures and postcards of days gone by and our wealth of natural resources. Here you will find an extensive selection of regional histories; an excellent starting point for a deeper dive into our rich history. Published Title Author(s) 2026 Sleeping Bear Dunes Pioneer Photographer Frederick W. Dickinson 2025 The Gales of November: […]
- [DEFINING THE ELEMENTS](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/learn-old/defining-the-elements/): What is it that makes the Grand Traverse Region so dramatically attractive, distinctive and intriguing? These 77 Elements represent the components whose unique blend comprises life in this area. These Elements are the Traverse Regional History Center’s map to inform, educate, and inspire curiosity for both local residents and visitors. Through the countless stories that live behind each, we preserve our heritage and celebrate the uncommon people, places and elements of the Grand Traverse Region. Antiques (An) Every corner of the region holds echoes of the past—barnwood furniture, iron tools, and lakefront relics whisper stories of pioneers and mariners. Antique shops […]
- [SUPPORT](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/support/): GIVING PRIORITIES We invite you to financially support the work of the Grand Traverse Historic Council. Our needs for your consideration are listed below: OUR DIGITAL COLLECTION Gifts help us create a catalog of compelling stories. We will use hundreds of stories about people, places and elements in the Grand Traverse Region to bring history to life.  Professionally-produced mini-documentaries cover dozens of subjects – lumbering, farming, railroads, shipping, commerce.  Oral histories capture multi-generational accounts from yesteryear. Their experiences illuminate a particular era, location or event. All are equally valuable. It’s especially important to preserve the memories of our elders to ensure […]
- [WHY HISTORY](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/why-history/): Studying history is valuable because it helps us understand the past, learn from mistakes, and develop critical thinking skills, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.  1. Understanding the Present and Predicting the Future Context and Perspective: History provides context for current events, helping us understand why things are the way they are and how they came to be. Identifying Patterns: By studying past events, we can identify patterns and trends that can help us make more informed decisions and predictions about the future. Learning from Mistakes and Successes: History offers valuable lessons from both […]
- [ABOUT](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/about-us/): Because history matters, Traverse Regional History Center uses today’s cutting edge technology to honor and celebrate our heritage—from the first inhabitants more than 8000 years ago to the present-day re-imagining of our society. HOW WE STARTED After the Great Depression, a charismatic gent named Con Foster had a vision to beautify the Traverse City waterfront, create a civic park that would include a regional zoo, aquarium and museum. It became a reality in 1935. Over time, the Con Foster collection of artifacts was moved to a vacant city building and became the History Center. It closed in 2016 from lack of […]
- [GALLERY](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/learn/gallery/): These images illustrate the Elements of the Grand Traverse Region–from the Ice Age to present day! We marvel at the amazing images of lumbering, farming, factories and civic improvements. It’s a dynamic tapestry portraying the life and times of northwest Michigan. All Antrim Benzie Grand Traverse Kalkaska Leelanau First People Maps Cherry Industry
- [REACH OUT](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/contact-us/): Lorem Traverse ipsum dolor sit amet, peninsula inter aquas magni lacus Michigan et Superiorus, ubi vinetum et campi pomarii olim radices ceperunt. Our Mailing Address 1647 Busy Rd Traverse City, MI 49686
- [VIDEO LANDING](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/video-landing/): The history channel for the Grand Traverse area Follow for more information and upcoming content. Facebook Instagram Youtube
- [GRAND TRAVERSE AREA ELEMENTS TABLE](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/learn/grand-traverse-area-elements-table/): What is it that makes the Grand Traverse Region so dramatically attractive, different, and intriguing? These 77 elements were selected to identify the composition of life in this area. Pioneers discovered the region—a heavily forested land with waterways shaped by the glaciers and filled with wildlife. They cut timber and raised crops in their villages. Some settlements rose and then disappeared; others thrived. Railways came and went. Commerce and the arts steadily grew, along with tourism. Churches, business of all sorts, organizations, clubs, and schools built the society we now enjoy. The Elements of the Grand Traverse Region are designed to […]
- [EVENTS](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/events/): We are planning an extensive calendar of events to share the rich stories and heritage of the uncommon people, places and elements of the five-county Grand Traverse Region. Watch this space as we build a history and cultural center like none you’ve experienced before! SEE CALENDAR VIEW
- [VOLUNTEER](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/support/volunteering/): Volunteering Grand Traverse Heritage Council offers unusual opportunities to volunteer with this community organization. Share your passion for history and volunteer with other like-minded museum enthusiasts. Interested in this work? Please let us know by completing the form below. Once received, we will contact you to discuss available opportunities. CONTACT US Facebook Instagram Youtube Facebook Instagram Youtube Brought to you by the Grand Traverse Heritage Council, a 501(c)(3) organization. All rights reserved © 2025 Throughout our site, we gratefully acknowledge imagery sourced from: Traverse Area District Library Local History Collection Don Harrison – UpNorth Memories Postcards & Paper Collectibles John Russell […]
- [AREA MUSEUMS](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/learn/area-musuems/): Many points of light – Numerous organizations throughout the region exist to celebrate culture and history, telling stories of how we came to be. These agencies often focus on a particular aspect of culture, a specific landmark, or a historical time period. Many are seated in a village or small city, and are focused on that community. Their work is critically important to maintaining awareness of culture and history, and passing down the stories to the next generation. Weaving a regional pattern – Traverse Regional History Center engages with these organizations through purposeful collaboration and helps expand their reach to the […]
- [BLOG](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/blog/): 77 Elements All
- [HOME](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/): Deep Roots. Immersive Stories. INTERACTIVE, EXPLORATORY, ENGAGING TRAVERSE REGIONAL HISTORY CENTER The Traverse Regional History Center celebrates the people, places and elements of the five-county Grand Traverse Region, including: Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Benzie, Antrim, Kalkaska, and the GT Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. Both the Center and our website will deliver a wide range of curated videos, oral histories, photos, presentations and experiences that will shed new light on the rich history of our region. Welcome Message https://vimeo.com/1183178206?fl=tl&fe=ec
- [Privacy Policy](https://traverseregionalhistory.org/privacy-policy/): Who we are Our website address is: http://hello-theme-basic-site.flywheelsites.com. What personal data we collect and why we collect it Comments When visitors leave comments on the site we collect the data shown in the comments form, and also the visitor’s IP address and browser user agent string to help spam detection. An anonymized string created from your email address (also called a hash) may be provided to the Gravatar service to see if you are using it. The Gravatar service privacy policy is available here: https://automattic.com/privacy/. After approval of your comment, your profile picture is visible to the public in the context […]

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