April 29, 1911

Michigan adopted a new state flag.

The state flag, Michigan’s third since becoming a state in 1837, features the coat of arms showing an eagle holding an olive branch and arrows. An elk and a moose support a shield displaying a man standing on a grassy peninsula. The following mottos appear on the coat of arms: E Pluribus Unum (From Many, One), Tuebor (I Will Defend) and Si Quaeris Peninsulam Amoenam Circumspice (If you Seek a Pleasant Peninsula, Look About You).

Thank you Michigan Start Pages for this glimpse into our past.  See more here.

April 28, 1955

The white pine became the official state tree.

The planting of a white pine on the lawn of the State Capitol marked public recognition of the white pine as the state tree. The white pine was chosen as a symbol of one of Michigan’s greatest industries. From 1870 to the early 1900s Michigan led the nation in lumber production.

Thank you Michigan Start Pages for this glimpse into our past.  See more here.

April 27, 1933

Michigan law lowered the state’s drinking age.

In celebration of the end of Prohibition, Governor William A. Comstock signed this law that allowed people 18 to 20 years old to drink beer and wine, but not hard liquor. Four years later, the legislature raised the age limit for all alcohol consumption to 21, where it remained until 1972.

Thank you Michigan Start Pages for this glimpse into our past.  See more here.

April 26, 1778

Detroit took its census.

Detroit’s population stood at 2,144 people, excluding military personnel and prisoners, after a census ordered by British commandant Henry Hamilton was taken.

Thank you Michigan Start Pages for this glimpse into our past.  See more here.

April 19, 1973

Craters appeared in Williamsburg.

Residents of the small town of Williamsburg, located northeast of Traverse City, discovered hundreds of mysterious craters, many of which spewed water, mud and volatile gas in three-foot geysers. Scientists theorized that natural gas from a nearby well turned the town into a moonscape.

Thank you Michigan Start Pages for this glimpse into our past.  See more here.