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Primary Source Sets

Looking for primary sources to use in the classroom, but don’t have the time to do a deep dive into Michiganology? Education staff Archives of Michigan did the hard work for you. We prepared standards based, curated sets of primary sources for an array of topics for you to use in the classroom.

Michigan Birds Eye Maps

1866-1889

Help students explore their community from the past. Birdseye maps show businesses, industries, and lanscapes.

Dig into Michigan Birdseye Maps
A section of an illustrated map of Jonesville. The city is shown from a birds eye perspective. There a roads, buildings, and a train on the map.
Dig into Michigan Birdseye Maps

Indigenous Lithographs

1821-1937

Hundreds of Indigenous delegates attended treaty negotiations in the 19th century. Students can compare and contrast the many people who attended treaty negotiations

View Original Lithographs
Woman sitting in chair
View Original Lithographs

War Letters

1861-1945

What did soldiers write home about? Have a look in these letters home.

Read Original Letters
Photograph shows three soldiers sitting on the ground with bedding, blankets, and rifles. One soldier is writing a letter and smoking, another looks toward the camera while behind them the other soldier is sleeping. Several white bell tents are in the background.
Read Original Letters

Michigan Experiences in the Civil War

1861-1865

Michigan contributed to the Civil War in significant ways. Students can see images and read about a few of the individuals who volunteered with Michigan troops.

View Civil War Images
Young boy in military uniform with drum
View Civil War Images

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