Unit Study Supplement: Michigan Facts, U.S. 26th State

Did you know that the state of Michigan has over 64,000 inland lakes and ponds? Or did you know that the first European settlement in what is now Michigan was formed to create a base for Catholic mission work? In this state study, you’ll learn many interesting facts about Michigan’s history and geography, and you’ll even learn about some fun things for children to do in the state. Don’t forget to check out Time4Learning’s full series of United States unit study supplements to learn the complete history of the formation of the United States of America as we know it today.

On January 26, Michigan celebrates its admission to the union — the beginning of its statehood. This homeschool unit study supplement is the perfect way to commemorate this date in an educational way with your homeschoolers. You can also download our list of PreK-12 interactive activities that align with your study of interesting facts about Michigan.

Michigan Fast Facts

Historical Facts About Michigan

In pre-colonial times, several different native tribes populated the area that would be known as the state of Michigan. The Huron, Chippewa, Kickapoo, and Ojibwe tribes were just some of the native nations that lived throughout the area of Michigan and southern Ontario. Although experts aren’t in complete agreement, many believe that the name Michigan comes from a Native American word meaning “big water.”

The first European explorers known to visit the area were from France. In 1668, French missionaries established sites there that could serve as bases for their Catholic mission activities. From the early 1700’s, the French ruled the area, and colonial Michigan was actually part of the royal province called “New France” (which included the Great Lakes area and also parts of present-day Canada).

Following the French and Indian War, the territory transferred to Great Britain and at the end of the Revolutionary War the area of Michigan came completely under American rule. Although Ohio and Indiana each wanted to absorb parts of Michigan into their own states, Congress and the Michigan electorate were eventually able to come to an agreement over territory and Michigan became its own free state in 1837.

Although not born in Michigan, the 38th president of the U.S., Gerald Ford, grew up in the state and his presidential library is located in Grand Rapids.

Geographical Facts About Michigan

Historical facts about Michigan are best studied in the context of its land and unique geographical features. Exploring a map of the state will help a lot. Then download our printable Michigan map (below) and mark it up with your child. Here’s a small survey of some of the things your homeschoolers will find fascinating about Michigan’s geography.

• Michigan shares an international border with Ontario, Canada.
• 90% of the upper peninsula of Michigan is covered in trees.
• The city of Detroit, on Michigan’s southeastern border, is often called “Motor City” because it was the center of automobile mass production in the beginning of the 20th century.
• The bus that civil rights activist Rosa Parks rode on is on display at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, MI.
• The only floating zip code in the U.S. is on a mail ship called the J. W. Westcott II, which operates out of Detroit and delivers mail to other ships.
• Over 40% of Michigan is covered with water — more than any other state!
• Michigan is also the only state to have two peninsulas, the Upper Peninsula and the Lower Peninsula.

Activities for Children in Michigan

If you homeschool in the state of Michigan, you may or may not be aware of all the great day trips that will offer your families opportunities for both recreation and learning. If you are visiting the state, this list will be especially helpful as well. Enhance your Michigan facts unit study with these field trip ideas.

• Cranbrook Institute of Science (Bloomfield Hills) — this 319 acre science campus allows students of all ages to interact with over 200,000 artifacts related to science and natural history.
• Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park (Grand Rapids) — plan to spend at least half a day exploring all the nooks and crannies of this sculpture garden and conservatory, including taking part in one of the year-round activities there.
• Indian Springs Metro Park Environmental Discovery Center (White Lake) — a 2,500 acre park where homeschoolers can explore the habitats and ecosystems of the native Michigan prairie.
• Quincy Mine (Hancock) — the mining operations at this location in the Upper Peninsula of MI have been closed since 1945, but visitors can tour the underground copper mine, ride on a rail tram, visit the original shafthouse, and learn all about the history of mining in Michigan.
• Studio 23 Arts Center (Bay City) — a visual arts center with ever-changing exhibits and ongoing fine arts classes and workshops for both children and adults.

For additional field trip options in Michigan, visit A2Z Homeschooling’s Michigan Field Trips with Kids page.

Michigan Freebies and Deals for Homeschoolers

• Carr-Fles Planetarium (Muskegon) — located on the campus of Muskegon Community College is this admission-free, state-of-the-art theater where homeschoolers can learn about our vast universe.
• Grand Rapids Art Museum (Grand Rapids) — visitors to the museum on Tuesdays from 9am-5pm and on Thursdays from 5pm-9pm receive free admission to this location hosting over 5,000 works of art.
• Legoland Discovery Center (Auburn Hills) — during special Homeschool Weeks throughout the year, homeschoolers and their immediate family members can visit for just $10 (over 50% off the normal admission).
• Michigan Supreme Court Learning Center (Lansing) — learn about Michigan’s judicial branch of government at this museum-like education center. Admission is FREE.
• Michigan Transit Museum (Mt. Clemens) — the depot is restored to its original 1900 appearance and students can view locomotives, Chicago EL Car, cabooses, and explore the museum at no charge.

Michigan Learning Games for Children

Boost your child’s online learning experience by checking out these available resources to assess your child’s knowledge about Michigan and learn even more about the Great Lakes State.