18 Awesome Things That Came Straight Out Of Michigan

We here in the Mitten State are mighty proud of all the great things that have come out of it. Obviously, Michigan's revolutionizing of the automotive industry is our biggest claim to fame, but there are also tons of everyday things that are beloved near and far. We think these things - some only available in Michigan, others that have changed the U.S. forever - are pretty special. Without further ado, here's a list of things made in Michigan and things invented in Michigan. Prepare to be impressed!

1. Gerber

What started as recipes for the baby of founder Daniel Frank Gerber, transformed the way we Americans feed our wee ones forever.

2. Faygo

We can't think of a state more proud of its pop than Michigan is of Faygo.

3. Cherry Republic, Traverse City

Dark chocolate-covered cherries? Cherry salsa? Cherry artisan mustard?! This shop has managed to find countless ways to bank on one of Michigan's most beloved fruits.

4. Carhartt

The clothing made by this Dearborn-based company embodies that tough, resilient Michigan work ethic.

5. Bon Bon Bon, Detroit, Hamtramck

These perfectly packaged, gourmet treats come in Michigan-themed varieties like Boston Cooler, Paczki, and Faygo Red Pop. Bon Apetit!

6. Wolverine

These super durable work boots, from the west Michigan city of Rockford, have increasingly become fashionable.

7. Vlasic

Inspired by recipes from Michigan's Polish immigrant community, these are one of the most popular pickles around. Fun fact: That iconic mascot stork was introduced by the company in 1974, combining the notion that storks deliver babies and pregnant women LOVE eating pickles.

8. Vernors

Michigan's very own Vernors put American ginger ale on the map, but surprisingly, you really can't find the brand outside of Michigan.

9. Stormy Kromer Hats

Originally founded in Wisconsin, the makers of these classic caps, popular among outdoorsy types, relocated production to Ironwood.

10. Slow Jams

The makers of these delicious jams are known for sourcing their ingredients locally. Lots of Mitten Love in every jar.

11. Shinola

This relatively new company, makers of fine watches and bicycles, made a splash when it opened shop in Detroit, by using the city's grit as street cred.

12. Sanders Candy

This legendary chocolate maker has been Michanders' sweet fix for generations. Pictured here, Sanders bumpy cakes - another only-in-Michigan classic.

13. Mackinac Island Fudge

The fudge found on Mackinac Island is so good it drives an entire tourism industry. Pictured here, a sweet treat from Original Murdick's Fudge.

14. McClure's Pickles

We Michiganders LOVE our pickles. And the spicy spears made by McClure's pack a serious kick.

15. Kellogg's

Cereal has been synonymous with American breakfasts for more than a century. You can thank Battle Creek-based Kellogg's for that.

16. Jiffy Mix

Created in 1930 by the Chelsea Milling Company, the Jiffy Mixes transformed how we prepare baked goods in the home forever.

17. Hudsonville Ice Cream

This local ice cream maker has a lot of love for Michigan, with limited edition flavors like Lake Superior Thaw, Tiger Traxx, and Grand Hotel Pecan Ball.

18. Germack Pistachio Co.

You're nuts if you don't love the snacks made by this local roaster.

These are but a sampling of all the great "Made in Michigan" creations we love. Which are your go-to Mitten State things? Tell us in the comments below!

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