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Three MI Moments from February
1. The U.P.’s Queen of the Sky
A pioneering pilot who would later command female aviators in WWII was born in Houghton, Michigan, on February 14, 1914.
Inspired by Charles Lindbergh, Nancy Harkness Love began flying at 16 and earned her pilot’s license just weeks after her very first flight.
She became the first woman to fly military planes like the P-51 Mustang and B-17 Bomber, eventually leading the Women's Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron (WAFS).
Awarded the Air Medal in 1945 and inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame, her leadership paved the way for every woman in military aviation today.
2. The Sojourner Truth Housing Riot
In February 1942, Black families in Detroit were met with violence and intimidation from white mobs simply for trying to move into their homes.
The Sojourner Truth Housing Project became a flashpoint when protesters blocked the streets to keep Black defense workers out, leading to a two-month delay and dozens of injuries.
After federal officials flip-flopped on who could live there, it took an escort of over 1,500 police and state troopers to finally move the families in.
This conflict exposed the deep ironies of the "Arsenal of Democracy," where Black defense workers faced a war over housing at home while building the necessary equipment to fight for freedom abroad.
3. The Pioneer from Grand Rapids
On February 15, 1935, a future pioneer of the Apollo program was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Roger B. Chaffee was a brilliant aeronautical engineer and Navy pilot chosen as the youngest crew member for the first crewed Apollo mission.
Though he was lost in the tragic Apollo 1 fire, the resulting safety overhauls led to over 1,300 changes, paving the way for the moon landing.
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MI History Photo of the Week
Steam Powered Snow Plow
Keeping the tracks clear in Michigan - circa 1900
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MI Trivia
In February 1958, which iconic guitar model—now a staple of rock history—was first shipped to stores from the Gibson factory in Kalamazoo?
Tip: Click or tap on your guess to see if you got it right!
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MI History Spotlight
Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium
The Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium at the Grand Rapids Public Museum has served as a gateway to the stars since opening its doors in 1967.
Today, it features cutting-edge Digistar technology, offering visitors immersive experiences ranging from "Under Starlit Skies" guided tours to unique "Concerts Under the Stars" featuring live music beneath the dome.
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My Michigan Reflection
Typically, I use this space to reflect on the moments that shaped Michigan’s past. But this week, I want to reflect on the people keeping that history alive: you!
Writing the Michigan History Digest is a labor of love, and as our community grows with things like our new YouTube channel, I want to make sure I’m delivering the best possible experience.
So, I have a small favor to ask.
Would you please take 60 seconds to hit 'reply' to this email and share a brief testimonial or feedback? It doesn't have to be long—just a sentence or two about what you love or dislike about our newsletter, why you look forward to reading it, or suggestions for improvement.
A quick note: I am planning to feature some of your reviews on our website to help attract new readers! (If you’re okay with your feedback being used, please include your first name and last initial in the email so I can credit you).
I will personally be reading every single reply; your support and feedback mean the world to me.
Until next week, thank you for reading Michigan History Digest.
— Zac and the Welcome Home History Team.
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MI History Rewind
Our can’t-miss videos from the week
Tip: Click the day (Monday, Tuesday, etc.) to watch on YouTube for free!