Best Detroit Historical Society Podcasts (2024)

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S3 E91 - Stories of John Dillinger & True Crime: An Interview with Author Tom Carr 40:43

43m ago40:43

40:43

In this episode, author Tom Carr joins me again to talk about stories of Michigan True Crime. In this episode he covers a story about John Dillinger who had an accomplice that traveled through Southwest Michigan from Indiana, as well as other tales about lumberjack brothels, stories about growing up with his father, and much more. To follow Tom Car…

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#57. Bill Barnum's Legacy Chronicles: From Eureka's Timber Roots to Housing Hurdles and Sustainable Futures 1:00:08

2h ago1:00:08

1:00:08

Send us a text Join us on a nostalgic journey through Humboldt County with our esteemed guest, Bill Barnum, a Eureka native whose family history is steeped in the region's robust timber legacy. Bill takes us back to the 1950s and 60s, a time marked by a post-war boom and a community driven by the lumber and fishing industries. Hear how his path fro…

1
Episode 307: Hoes of History: Tanya Tucker 50:24

1h ago50:24

50:24

Country music legend, Tanya Tucker, is an icon who still rocks the stage. From her breakout hit "Delta Dawn" at just 13 years old, to her enduring influence on country music, Tanya has paved the way for a generation of artists with her fearless authenticity. We’ll explore her rise to stardom in the 1970s, the ups and downs of her personal life in t…

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S3 E90 - Michigan Ghost Stories & Cemeteries with Bobbie Mathis & Andrew Noland 36:35

2h ago36:35

36:35

Cemetery restoration experts Bobbie Mathis and Andrew Noland join me again to talk about Michigan ghost stories, encounters and also an upcoming presentation on cemetery restoration and symbology. For information on the upcoming event on Saturday, October 12th, Tombstone Preservation, Restoration & Symbology, click here. For more information on Mic…

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S3 E89 - Tracking Down the Stories of Michigan Killers: An Interview with True Crime Author Rod Sadler 34:17

3d ago34:17

34:17

In this episode, True Crime Author Rod Sadler joins me for a talk on his books. He discusses his investigative process, research, murder site visits and much more. For information and books by Rod Sadler, visit: https://www.rodsadler.com To follow Rod Sadler on Facebook, visit: Facebook.com/RodSadlerAuthor For information on the event we are partic…

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Episode 306: Hoes of History: C.Z. Guest 43:13

11d ago43:13

43:13

C.Z. Guest was an American socialite, author, and fashion icon whose effortless style and grace defined an era. From her early beginnings in Boston to her rise as a muse to legendary fashion designers, C.Z. Guest’s life was a blend of high society, horticulture, and timeless elegance. We'll dive into her friendships with the likes of Truman Capote …

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S3 E88 - Researching Household History & True Crime: An Interview with Author Allie Seibert 42:41

7d ago42:41

42:41

In this episode, Author Allie Seibert joins me to discuss her company 'Household History' and the process of researching the history of a home, as well some true crime stories she has uncovered. For more information Allie Seivert, her books & Household History, visit: Householdhistory.com To follow Household History on Facebook, Click here. For inf…

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S3 E87 - The Wildcat Banking Era in Michigan 35:55

16d ago35:55

35:55

In this episode I explore the Wildcat Banking Era in Michigan which began in 1837 and lasted until approximiatly 1845 when the first state banking law was introduced by the legistlature. For more information on Michael Delaware, visit: https://michaeldelaware.com

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#56. Kim Bergel's Journey of Service: From Childhood Challenges to Leading Eureka, Embracing Montessori Values, and Advocating for Mental Health Education 56:10

10d ago56:10

56:10

Send us a text Join us on the 100% Humboldt Podcast as we sit down with Eureka's mayor and dedicated middle school educator, Kim Bergel. Kim opens up about her journey from a challenging childhood, marked by the tragic loss of her mother, to her dual roles in education and local governance. This episode reveals how these personal experiences shaped…

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Episode 305: Hoes of History: The First Female Patent Owners 33:10

13d ago33:10

33:10

We dive into the remarkable stories of the first three women to receive patents in the United States, breaking new ground in their fields. We start with Hannah Wilkinson Slater, who in 1793 became the first woman to receive a U.S. patent for her revolutionary improvement in cotton-spinning technology. Next, we explore the work of Mary Dixon Kies, w…

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S3 E86 - Clubs, Organizations & Secret Societies in Cemetery Symbols 36:34

14d ago36:34

36:34

In this episode I explore the symbology of clubs, organizations and secret societies found in historic cemeteries. For a copy of Tui Snider's book: Understanding Cemetery Symbols, click here. For a link to her website: https://tuisnider.com/ For information on Michael Delaware, visit: MichaelDelaware.com…

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S3 E85 - The Deadly Porridge of Mary Sanderson 51:42

23d ago51:42

51:42

In this episode, I tell the story of Mary Sanderson from my book Victorian Southwest Michigan True Crime. To attend the Michigan History Author Symposium and get tickets, visit: https://events.humanitix.com/mihistoryauthorsymposium For more information or to contact Michael Delaware, visit: ⁠https://michaeldelaware.com⁠…

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#55. Matthew Owen's Journey: From Eureka's Roots to LA's Hustle and Back, Navigating Real Estate, Volunteerism, and Travel Tales 1:00:33

17d ago1:00:33

1:00:33

Send us a text Ever wondered how a small-town boy from Eureka, California, conquers the bustling streets of Los Angeles and returns to his roots with a wealth of experiences? Join us as we uncover Matthew Owen's fascinating journey, exploring his rich family history, dynamic college days at Chico State, and his professional escapades in LA's real e…

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Episode 304: Hoes of History: Hypatia 51:56

21d ago51:56

51:56

Hypatia was one of the most extraordinary figures of the ancient world. Born in Alexandria around 355 AD, Hypatia was a pioneering mathematician, astronomer, and philosopher who defied the constraints of her time to become a symbol of intellectual excellence and resilience. She is a key person credited with the preservation of classic textbooks tha…

1
S3 E84 - The Historic Markers of Cass County Michigan 27:37

27d ago27:37

27:37

In this episode, I explore the historic markers found in Cass County Michigan, and talk about some of the history of the county. For the link on where to locate historic markers in Michigan, click here. For more information or to contact Michael Delaware, visit: https://michaeldelaware.com

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S3 E83 - Kalamazoo's Extraordinary Inventor Jay B. Rhodes 1865 - 1931 featuring the book by Cynthia Jeffrey 30:19

24d ago30:19

30:19

In this episode I explore the history of Kalamazoo's extraordinary inventor Jay B. Rhodes using the book written by author Cynthia Jeffrey. Rhodes in his day was referred to as the 'Kalamazoo Edison' and the 'Patent King' as he filed over 230 patents in his lifetime. The impact from his inventions impacted a range of industries including world even…

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#54. Debra Garnes' Mosaic of Resilience: From Detroit and Navy Roots to Revitalizing Rio Del's Community Spirit and Leadership 56:06

25d ago56:06

56:06

Send us a text Ever wondered what it takes to transform a small town from the ground up? Join us as we sit down with Mayor Debra Garnes, the resilient and resourceful leader of Rio Dell, who shares her extraordinary journey from Detroit to the Navy, her career at SMUD, and finally her heartfelt commitment to her community in Humboldt County. Hear h…

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Episode 303: Hoes of History: Betty Crocker 50:44

28d ago50:44

50:44

Who is Betty Crocker? A culinary icon, a trusted advisor, a brand name synonymous with home-cooked comfort—yet, Betty Crocker isn't a real person. In this episode, we unravel the fascinating story behind America's favorite fictional homemaker, born out of necessity and transformed into a cultural phenomenon. We dive into the 1920s, a time when Amer…

1
S3 E82 - A History of the Wallace Woolen Mill in Battle Creek, Michigan 26:27

1M ago26:27

26:27

In this episode I explore the history of the Wallace Woolen Mill established in 1844 by William Wallace, a miller from Vermont. The mill was owned by Wallace until he sold it in 1872, and the building later became the Union School Furniture Company. For tickets to the Michigan History Author Symposium in Battle Creek, click here: https://events.hum…

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S3 E81 - More Stories from Wicked Grand Rapids with Author Amberrose Hammond 53:02

1M ago53:02

53:02

In this episode author Amberrose Hammond joins me to share stories from her book 'Wicked Grand Rapids'. We also share news about an upcoming event we will be participating in on September 28th in Battle Creek called the Michigan History Author Symposium. For ticket information on the Michigan History Author Symposium, click here: https://events.hum…

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Episode 302: Hoes of History: Frida Kahlo 1:08:17

1M ago1:08:17

1:08:17

Frida Kahlo was one of the most iconic and influential artists of the 20th century. From her tumultuous childhood in Mexico to her groundbreaking work that challenged conventions and captured the human spirit, Frida's story is one of resilience, passion, and unapologetic self-expression. We dig into the events that shaped her — including her near-f…

1
S3 E80 - Exploring the Early History of Vermontville, Michigan 29:47

1M ago29:47

29:47

In this episode, I explore the early history of Vermontville, Michigan. For more information on the village history of Vermontville, click here. For more information on Michael Delaware, visit: https://michaeldelaware.com

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Episode 301: Hoes of History: Janet Guthrie 55:44

1M ago55:44

55:44

Janet Guthrie broke barriers in the male-dominated world of racing, becoming the first woman to qualify for both the Indianapolis 500 and the Daytona 500 in the 1970s. Her journey from aerospace engineer to a professional race car driver is a testament to her tenacity, skill, and fearless spirit. Join us as we explore Janet's early life, the challe…

1
S3 E79 - The History of the War of 1812: In Honor of the Memory of Dennis Skupinski 56:52

1M ago56:52

56:52

This episode is a replay of an interview with Dennis Skupinski that was recorded in November 2022 on the History of the War of 1812. I am reposting this interview in honor of the memory of Dennis who passed away in December 2023. For information on where donate to the Michigan Military Heritage Museum, visit: ⁠https://mimhm.org/donation⁠ The museum…

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#53. Linda Lorvig's Legacy of Literacy: Linda's Humboldt Educational Impact and Community Bonds 46:56

1M ago46:56

46:56

Send us a text Ever wondered how a school librarian's dedication can change an entire community? Sit down with us as we chat with Linda Lorvig, a beloved Humboldt resident who moved from the Mojave Desert to the lush landscapes of Humboldt County in 1974. With over three decades shaping young minds at South Bay School, Linda shares touching stories…

1
S3 E78 - The Early Railroads of Allegan County 26:51

2M ago26:51

26:51

In this episode, I explore the history of the early railroads in Allegan County, the impact it had on population growth and the changes over the years. I also discuss the financial panics of 1857 and 1873 which had an impact on the growth and direction of transportation in the nation. For more information on Michael Delaware, visit: https://michael…

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S3 E77 - Never Home: Remembering the Military Heroes Who Never Returned with Author Richard Sherman 49:30

2M ago49:30

49:30

In this episode, Gulf War Veteran, Author & Photographer Richard Sherman joins me to talk about his new book: Never Home: Remembering the Military Heroes Who Never Returned. This book was a project that took 6 years, and 8 seperate trips overseas to collection information and photograph. He visited 23 of America's military cemeteries overseas, and …

1
Alex Stillman's Community Chronicles: From San Francisco's Streets to Arcata's Historic Heartbeat 57:00

2M ago57:00

57:00

Send us a text Prepare to be captivated by the inspiring journey of Alex Stillman as she transitions from the bustling streets of San Francisco to the serene charm of Arcata, California. In this episode, Alex recounts her early days in retail and the pivotal decision to pursue higher education, driven by her family's academic legacy. From her initi…

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Episode 300: Hoes of History: Ruth Bader Ginsburg 1:12:44

2M ago1:12:44

1:12:44

We explore the life and impact of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a pioneering force in the fight for gender equality and a revered Supreme Court Justice. From her early days as a top law student facing gender discrimination to her groundbreaking work in landmark cases, Ruth's journey is one of resilience and determination. We'll discuss her most influential …

1
S3 E76 - The National Driving Park in Kalamazoo & the Legend of Flora Temple 20:28

2M ago20:28

20:28

In this episode I explore the history of the National Driving Park in Kalamazoo, horse racing, harness racing and the legend one horse that shocked the world on a track in that city named 'Flora Temple'. For the article refered to in this episode, click here. For more information on Michael Delaware, visit: https://michaeldelaware.com…

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The Ivory Hunters: History of the Detroit Tigers Scouting and Development: Del Baker- EP 115 1:12:41

2M ago1:12:41

1:12:41

Send us a text Ever wondered how a single year could define a city’s sports legacy? Join us as we revisit the exhilarating year of 1935 when Detroit's Lions, Tigers, and Red Wings each clinched their first championships, earning the city the moniker "City of Champions." We’ll also marvel at the incredible rise of Joe Lewis during this golden era. F…

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S3 E75 - A History of the Potter House in Battle Creek, Michigan 41:53

2M ago41:53

41:53

In this episode, I explore the history of the Potter House in Battle Creek, Michigan. The Potter House was a hotel that was built in 1869, and opened in 1870. It was burned down in 1880, and was rebuilt as the Potter Block. It has a fascinating history in the decade that it existed in the city. For more information on Michael Delaware, visit: https…

1
Miles Slattery's Journey of Resilience: Surfing from Del Mar to Eureka's Bold Urban Vision and Community Transformation 51:12

2M ago51:12

51:12

Send us a text What does it take to transform a life marked by early challenges into one of meaningful community impact? Join us as we welcome Miles Slattery, an inspiring figure who shares his remarkable journey from the surf town of Del Mar to shaping the future of Eureka, Humboldt. Starting with an honest look at his tumultuous teenage years and…

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Episode 299: Hoes of History: Hélène de Pourtalès 46:53

2M ago46:53

46:53

Hélène de Pourtalès was a woman of many firsts who made history as the first female Olympic champion. An American who was born into European aristocracy, Hélène’s life was one of privilege, yet she defied expectations by stepping into the world of competitive sailing—a male-dominated arena in the late 19th century. We'll explore her remarkable jour…

1
S3 E74 - A Century of History at Fort Custer 26:21

2M ago26:21

26:21

In this episode, I refer to a recent article in Michigan History Magazine written by Barry Levine on the history of Fort Custer. For more information on the Historical Society of Michigan, visit: https://www.hsm.pub For the video I mention in this episode on Fort Custer National Cemetery, click here. For information on Michael Delaware, visit: http…

1
S3 E73 - The Jackson Civil War Muster with Special Guest Maurice Imhoff, President of the Jackson Civil War Society 26:27

2M ago26:27

26:27

In this episode, Maurice Imhoff, the President of the Jackson Civil War Society joins me to discuss the upcoming Jackson Civil War Muster, one of the largest reenactment events in the country. The event is happening on August 24-25, in Jackson, Michigan. For details on attending this free outdoor event, visit: https://civilwarmuster.org To follow d…

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Episode 298: Hoes of History: Florence Griffith Joyner aka Flo Jo 54:30

2M ago54:30

54:30

Florence Griffith Joyner, affectionately known as "Flo Jo," is widely regarded as the fastest woman of all time. Flo Jo dazzled the world not only with her record-breaking speed on the track but also with her bold, trendsetting fashion. We'll explore her humble beginnings in Los Angeles, her rise to Olympic glory, and the indomitable spirit that pr…

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S3 E72 - A History of the Southern Michigan Baseball League 1906 - 1915 24:01

2M ago24:01

24:01

In this episode, I explore the history of the Southern Michigan Baseball League and the teams in this league that existed in Battle Creek, Kalamazoo, Jackson and Lansing between 1906 - 1915. For more information on Michael Delaware, visit: https://michaeldelaware.com

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S3 E71 - Exploring the History of Sherwood Michigan with Special Guest Bobbie Mathis 49:58

2M ago49:58

49:58

In this episode Bobbie Mathis joins me from the Union City Society for Historic Preservation, and we discuss her recent cemetery restoration workshops at Sherwood Cemetery, in Sherwood, Michigan in Branch County. We also explore some history of the town of Sherwood which gets its name from the Nottingham Forest in England. For more information on t…

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Episode 297: Hoes of History: Gloria Struck 32:00

2M ago32:00

32:00

Gloria Struck was a true pioneer in the world of motorcycling. Born in 1925, Gloria’s passion for motorcycles began at a time when women were rarely seen on two wheels. Over the decades, she defied societal norms, becoming an iconic figure in the motorcycling community. Join us as we explore Gloria’s incredible journey, from her first ride at the a…

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S3 E70 - Tales of Pioneer "Olden Days" in Van Buren County 30:42

3M ago30:42

30:42

In this episode I cover some stories of the olden days recorded about the pioneer period in Van Buren County, Michigan from a text written in 1912. For more information on Michael Delaware, visit: https://michaeldelaware.com

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S3 E69 - The 50th Anniversary of the Ford Presidency: An Interview with Dr. Mirelle Luecke of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum 32:03

3M ago32:03

32:03

In this episode I interview Dr. Mirelle Luecke of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She has been the curator of the museum since 2022, and the organization is celebrating the 50th Anniversary this year of the Gerald R. Ford Presidency with special exhibits, programs and educational presentations. For more i…

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Untold Detroit: The Hustle Trailer 0:41

3M ago0:41

0:41

Untold Detroit: The Hustle focuses on the long tradition of entrepreneurship in Detroit’s Black community and how the Black economy has evolved in the face of deindustrialization, white flight, and economic hardship since the 1960s. It sheds insight into Detroit’s tumultuous times through interviews with community elders and business leaders like A…

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S3 E68 - Pioneer Stories from Ingham County Michigan 34:47

3M ago34:47

34:47

In this episode I explore pioneer recollections recorded in a book published in 1923 entitled "Pioneer History of Ingham County" by Mrs. Franc L. Adams. It covers stories written in 1873 by some of the pioneers who settled in Lansing and Mason. For more information on Michael Delaware, visit: https://michaeldelaware.com…

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S3 E67 - Stories of Pastimes and Entertainment in Benton Harbor 1870 - 1914 32:21

3M ago32:21

32:21

In this episode I revisit stories from Benton Harbor as written by James Pender in his 1915 publication "History of Benton Harbor: Tales of Village Days" and cover the chapters on pastimes and entertainment. We explore ice skating, roller skating, the circus, baseball, skeet shooting and more! For more information on Michael Delaware, visit: https:…

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S3 E66 - The History of the Kalamazoo House and the Tornado of 1834 22:58

3M ago22:58

22:58

In this episode I explore the history of the first hotel built in Kalamazoo in 1832, and also a letter a woman wrote about the story of a tornado that hit in 1834 when she was just six years old. For more information on Michael Delaware, visit: ⁠https://michaeldelaware.com

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Episode 296: Hoes of History: Mary Surratt 1:09:04

3M ago1:09:04

1:09:04

Mary Surratt is a woman whose name is forever entwined with one of America's most infamous events—the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. As the first woman executed by the U.S. government, Mary Surratt's story is one of intrigue, loyalty, and a controversial trial that continues to spark debate more than a century later. We start by explor…

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Ivory Hunters: History of the Detroit Tigers Scouting & Development Pt 5: Bob Coleman Ep 114 1:12:46

3M ago1:12:46

1:12:46

Send us a text Step into the golden era of Detroit sports with us as Jamie Flanagan and Charles Avison unveil the meticulous research and dedication that brought the legendary athletes of 1935 back to life. Journey through time as Charles recounts his thrilling discoveries of rare memorabilia and the painstaking effort he put into piecing together …

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S3 E65 - The Grand Trunk Railroad Tragedy of 1893 in Battle Creek Michigan 53:41

3M ago53:41

53:41

In this episode, I explore the history of the Grand Trunk Railroad Tragedy of 1893 in Battle Creek, Michigan. The accident left 27 people dead and 36 people injured. Many of the deceased were burned beyond recognition. Two men were charged with manslaughter, but both were ultimately acquitted. It is a dark and graphic story. Warning: Graphic Conten…

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#49. Teaching, Tectonics, and Preparedness: Lori Dengler's Lifelong Learning Odyssey 1:00:24

3M ago1:00:24

1:00:24

Send us a text Can the forces of nature teach us about resilience and community? Join us as we welcome Lori Dengler, a retired geophysics professor with 37 years of experience at Humboldt State University, who shares her fascinating journey from academia to community education. Lori reminisces about her vibrant days in the geology department, highl…

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