Here in Michigan, we’re pretty proud of our rich legacy in the development of our nation. But there are some things that we were true leaders in, things that have forever changed the way we function in society. Have we piqued your interest?  If so, read on to learn all you need to know about Michigan firsts that have impacted the state, our country, and even the world.

1. The Windsor-Detroit Tunnel is the first international underground tunnel for vehicles.
John Kannenberg/Flickr
This is one of the things in Michigan that makes daily commutes that much easier.
2. MSU is the first land-grant university in the country and the first institution to teach scientific agriculture.
VasenkaPhotography/Flickr
To this day, this programming continues to be at the forefront in this field of education.
3. Ford Motor Company, right here in Michigan, was the first to develop the moving assembly line for automobiles.
Freaktography/Flickr
This is one of the leading inventions from Michigan that forever changed the way manufacturing is done today.
4. The Detroit Zoo was the first zoo in the United States to feature cage-less, open exhibits that allowed more freedom for animals to roam.
Boston Public Library/Flickr
Prioritizing how animals are cared for is perhaps one of the most meaningful things Michigan did first.

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5. Detroit-based Packard Motor Car Company was the first to offer air-conditioned cars in 1939 (these A/Cs were manufactured by Cleveland-based Bishop and Babcock Co).
JOHN LLOYD/Flickr
This important invention from Michigan has allowed families to ride in comfort on a hot day.
6. The Kellogg Company in Battle Creek was the first to develop dry cereal in the country.
Donna D/Flickr
Thanks to being one of the most delicious Michigan firsts, dry cereal is a staple in households throughout the country and beyond.
7. Michigan was the first English-speaking government on the planet to abolish the death penalty for ordinary crimes.
Kurt and Sybilla/Flickr
No matter where you stand on the issue, this thing Michigan did first is significant and historic.
8. Michigan was also the first to guarantee tax-paid high school public education to every child.
Paradox 56/Flickr
We're sensing a trend here. Michigan, at one point, was very serious about education for all too.
9. The first U.S. soda pop, Vernors, was developed in Detroit over 150 years ago. Hence, another one of the tasty things from Michigan.
Derek Bruff/Flickr

Some of these, yes, we are all definitely aware of. Others, especially the inroads that Michigan made in public education, are a pleasant surprise to learn. Feel free to tell us in the comments section what some of those little-known Michigan firsts you’re especially proud of.

In addition to discovering things and inventions from Michigan, I encourage you to check out these Detroit firsts as well.

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Michigan Firsts

Marla S. | June 04, 2023

What are some well-known inventions from Michigan? 

Here are some well-known inventions from Michigan:

  • The yellow and white lines you see when you're driving along a road started in Michigan.
  • Daniel Frank Gerber, the founder of the well-known baby food, started his company in Fremont back in 1927.
  • The five-day workweek came to be as a result of automotive workers getting two days off from work
  • In 1957, synthetic penicillin was developed thanks to chemist John C. Sheehan.

 

Curious to know more? Take a look at these foods that were invented in Michigan.

What are some fun facts about Michigan?

Along with the Michigan firsts you just learned about, here are some fun facts about the state.

  • The shortest highway in the state is just over a mile long.
  • You'll find the only Dutch windmill in the country in Michigan.
  • The first outdoor pedestrian mall is in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
  • The largest weather vane in the world happens to be in Montague, Michigan.

 

If you'd like to know more, I encourage you to check out this full list of fun facts about Michigan.

In addition, I think you'll find our previous coverage of unique Michigan facts interesting.

 

 

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