How is freedom defined during the statehood era?

An Anti-Slavery Society In 1832, in a simple wood meetinghouse near Adrian, Michigan, the first anti-slavery society in Michigan was formed. Some of the people in this meeting were Quakers, a religious group that spoke out against slavery. One of the Quakers was Elizabeth Chandler. Elizabeth wrote… Read More

The Michigan History Center is creating stories, activities, and teaching resources for educators to use with students. The stories below focus on how who came to Michigan during the Statehood Era. Why did so many people came to Michigan during the Statehood Era? Who were these… Read More

Most wars leave people hurt or dead, and cause much damage.  However, the Toledo War was an exception.  It was not an official war.  No one died in the war and there was little damage.  Michigan and Ohio waged this war in 1835 over a… Read More

The Michigan History Center is creating stories, activities, and teaching resources for educators to use with students. The stories below focus on the Tribal Nations living in Michigan before and during the Statehood Era. This was a time of radical change for the Anishnaabe People living… Read More

The Underground Railroad is an important aspect of U.S. history. It allows us to explore in depth the institution of slavery and the search for freedom by runaway slaves and their allies. It is one of the most important examples in our history of individuals… Read More