Our CULTURE category dives into the truly unique people and happenings of the Upper Peninsula.
Recently Published
Sweating it Out: The U.P. and the Growing Popularity of Saunas
The Upper Peninsula’s rich sauna tradition, rooted in Finnish culture, is contributing to the booming popularity of saunas across the U.S. Learn about local businesses like The Sauna Guys and Esjay Saunas that are innovating in the industry and helping people experience the relaxation and health benefits of the sauna.
Opinion: Don’t take your date to an asylum for Valentine’s Day
Tom Watkins and Jim Haveman recently wrote an opinion piece in The Detroit News: “Asylums that ‘treated’ individuals with mental illness have been a horror show for far too many people throughout our history. It should not become a spooky entertainment venue.”
Alcohol Drinking in the Upper Peninsula
Dr. Russell Magnaghi gives a detailed overview of the history of alcohol regulation in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
The Festival of Struggle
For three days, on July 2-4, 1932, a “Festival of Struggle” was held in Marquette County, Michigan that featured a parade, sporting events, and more. Though not much has been written about this festival previously, the Marquette Regional History Center’s Hunter Laing gives a fascinating and detailed overview.
The Twelve Days of Christmas
We have all heard the rhyme “The Twelve Days of Christmas” set to music, but what we are not familiar with is its serious purpose when it was written. Dr. Russell Magnaghi explains its history and what the twelve parts of the song originally meant.
