Tales of Southwest Michigan's Past

S5 E28 - The Great Chicago Fire & the Burning of Holland Michigan 1871

The Great Chicago Fire between October 8 - 10th, 1871 is the topic of this episode. During this same time fires in Holland and Manistee, Michigan destroyed those cities. I explore the impact of those fires, the effects and reaction across Southwest Michigan following the event, as well as first hand accounts of the reporters. For more information on Michael Delaware, visit: https://michaeldelaware.com [https://michaeldelaware.com]

S5 E27 - The Lens of History

In this episode, I explore the Historical lenses used to explore history, beginning with the common frameworks of Social, Political and Economic factors. I also discuss the importance of understanding the religious, moral, legal and other lenses such as bias that one might encounter in the study of history. I also discuss how important it is to approach all history with the lens of curiousity above all others. For more information on Michael Delaware, visit: https://michaeldelaware.com [https://michaeldelaware.com]

S5 E26 - Earthcraft & Archeology: An Interview with Brenna Pixley, Ashley Kloote & Tom Talbot

In this episode, Brenna Pixley and Ashley Kloote join me from Earthcraft, and organization based in Scotts, Michigan which is dedicated to Ancestral Skillshare which includes experiential learning, intergenerational exchange and an effort to build an enduring community. Also in the program is archeologist Tom Talbot who will be presenting a program 'Mysteries in Stone' at the upcoming Earthcraft event happening July 9th -12th, 2026. For more information on the Earthcraft organization and the upcoming program schedule visit: earthcraftskillshare.com [https://www.earthcraftskillshare.com/] If you would to attend the program and receive a discount: Use code :TALES For 20% off all ticket (excluding meal)  For more information on Michael Delaware, visit: MichaelDelaware.com [https://michaeldelaware.com]

S5 E25 - The History of the Michigan Soldiers Home and Cemetery in Grand Rapids

In this episode I explore the history of the Michigan Soldiers Home and Cemetery in Grand Rapids. I refer to an article published in the Michigan History Magazine of July/August 2026 written by Bruce Kalish. For information on how to subscribe the Michigan History Magazine visit: https://www.hsmichigan.org/read/michigan-history [https://www.hsmichigan.org/read/michigan-history] For more information on Michael Delaware, visit: https://michaeldelaware.com [https://michaeldelaware.com]

S5 E24 - Remembering Ernie Harwell: The Voice of Michigan Summers

In this episode, I explore the life of Ernie Harwell the 50 year voice of Detroit Tigers Baseball who retired in 2002, and passed away in 2010. The source material for this episode is an article in Michigan History Magazine July/August 2026 'Ernie Harwell: The Voice of Michigan Summers'. To subscribe to the Michigan History Magazine, visit this link here: https://www.hsmichigan.org/read/michigan-history [https://www.hsmichigan.org/read/michigan-history] For more information on Michael Delaware, visit: https://michaeldelaware.com [https://michaeldelaware.com]