Ever wonder how Michigan got its start? We know we've often pondered this. Situated in the northern Midwest, the weather is totally unpredictable, reason enough to have us scratching our heads as to why anyone would settle in this region to begin with.
The reasons date back to the 17th century when French explorers, fur traders, and missionaries were intermingling with the many native peoples who lived on the land. The result was that some of the oldest cities in the state were formed.
An interesting thing we've found in our research is that many of the oldest cities in the Mitten are in the Upper Peninsula.
This UP city, founded in 1668, has always served as a major artery, connecting the United States with Canada, serving as a fishing destination, and an important trading post.
We know this island town as a popular tourist destination. But before that, it was settled by French fur traders in 1671. And before that, it was inhabited by a Native American tribe known as Mi-shi-ne-macki naw-go.
Marquette was founded in 1675 and was once surrounded by French missionaries and trappers. Later, iron deposits were discovered in nearby Teal Lake, setting the tone for the region to become a major mining hub.
Michigan's largest city, Detroit was founded in 1701 by French officer Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac. The city served as a major fur trading post in its early days.
Funny how we're all so connected, isn't it? Tell us, where are some of the oldest communities in your neck of the woods?
The Great Lake State is known for well, a great many things (pardon the pun!), such as having the largest freshwater system in the world and being smack dab in the heart of the American automotive industry. But back in the day, we were also known for having the first mall in the U.S. that was an first outdoor pedestrian mall in Kalamazoo. All these years later and it is still a thriving downtown shopping experience. Whether you visit for a bit of history, nostalgia, or to shop locally, the Kalamazoo Mall is a must-visit. Come along as we show you what's so great about it:
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The Kalamazoo Mall is located in the heart of downtown Kalamazoo in Southwest Michigan.
Opened in 1959 at the cost of $60,000, Kalamazoo became “Mall City” by opening America’s first outdoor pedestrian mall. The mall started as two car-free blocks of Burdick Street and eventually grew to four blocks by 1975.
By 1998, two blocks were reopened to a single southbound lane for thru traffic. But the mall is still as vivacious as ever.
There are so many fantastic local shops to choose from including the Rocket Fizz candy shop, Bee Joyful eco-friendly store, Great Lakes Thrift Co. vintage shop, and Cherri's Chocol'art chocolate shop.
A downtown social district was created where you can grab a drink from one of the many participating brewpubs and walk around the Mall. Or listen to some free live music in the summer at the historic Kalamazoo State Theater.
You’ll always find an event going on in downtown Kalamazoo from parades to shop local events. Arguably the biggest event is Vintage in the Zoo which takes over downtown, shuts down streets for easy pedestrian access, and small artisans get to sell their eclectic vintage wares.
Have you ever walked around downtown Kalamazoo before? Have you ever been to the Kalamazoo Mall? What are some of your other favorite malls in Michigan? Let us know your favorite places to eat and shop in the comments below.
If you’re visiting in the summer, make sure you plan accordingly to experience Vintage In The Zoo.
Thinking about taking a Great Lakes State vacay soon? Then consider booking your flight via the Dollar Flight Club.
If you’d like to explore some really great hikes in and around the area, you can find information and photos about trails to embark upon by going to the AllTrails website.
Here’s The Story Behind The Massive American Horse Sculpture In Michigan
The Frederick Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan, features the impressive "The American Horse" sculpture, a piece with historical roots dating back to Leonardo da Vinci.
If you're a fan of history and public art in Michigan, you have a lot to be thankful for, and we've got quite the story for you. There are countless unique sculptures, buildings, and architectural feats to explore here in the Great Lake State. However, we feel like one piece in Grand Rapids is particularly fascinating, and you'll surely want to see it yourself. The Frederick Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park belong on every art lover's bucket list. One of the most amazing things here is The American Horse sculpture. Have you ever seen the incredible Meijer Gardens horse in person? Even if you've checked it out on previous visits to the area, you just might learn something new about its origins as you read on.
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"The American Horse" sculpture is quite difficult to miss. It's located on the stunning grounds of the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, which can be found right along the East Beltline NE in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
While visitors to Meijer Gardens often stop to snap photos of this equestrian behemoth, few take the time to learn about its far-reaching history. For fans of art in Michigan, this sculpture is truly a must-experience piece, and you'll want to see it in person to take in its striking size and presence.
The American Horse sculpture arrived in Grand Rapids, MI back in 1999. However, its history extends centuries into the past. In fact, its origins date all the way back to 1482! Master painter Leonardo da Vinci first envisioned a horse sculpture for the Duke of Milan.
Despite years of preparation and study, da Vinci’s designs for the towering bronze piece never came to fruition, as the bronze intended for his piece was ultimately repurposed into military cannons in 1494.
Sadly, da Vinci died without ever seeing his gargantuan horse constructed. In 1977, American art collector Charles Dent embarked on a 15-year journey to complete da Vinci's vision and bring this masterpiece of a sculpture into existence.
While Dent's efforts laid the foundation for the creation of "The American Horse," it was sculptor Nina Akamu who redesigned the piece. She created two casts for the final bronze beauty after Dent's death in 1994.
In 1999, the first bronze cast of Akamu's stunning design was placed in Milan. This brought da Vinci's centuries-old dream full circle. As you've likely guessed by now, the second cast was used for the American Horse sculpture.
Today, Akamu's Michigan giant horse statue standing proud at 24 feet, draws in countless visitors, here in the Great Lakes State. This is one of the most striking pieces of public art in Michigan. As you gaze up at this incredible creation, allow yourself to be amazed by art's ability to span centuries and continents.
For more information about visiting Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, MI, where you can see The American Horse for yourself, check out the Meijer Gardens website. You can also see upcoming events at the park on the Meijer Gardens Facebook page.
Have you ever seen this big horse statue in Michigan or, perhaps, visited its twin in Milan, Italy? Share your experiences with us by leaving a comment. If you're a fan of public art in Michigan, we'd love to hear about your favorite pieces! Recommend another stunning sculpture in Michigan by completing our nomination form.
Traveling to Grand Rapids and need somewhere to stay? There are some great vacation home rentals in Grand Rapids, MI available on Vrbo. We love this cozy cottage that's located just a few miles from Meijer Gardens!
Another historical gem in Michigan is the Dorr E. Felt Mansion - although, some say it is haunted...
