Lansing to Traverse City, Michigan (June 5, 2024)

 June 5, 2024

Lansing, Michigan


RE Olds Museum

The RE Olds Museum in Lansing, Michigan, is a great spot to explore the history of Ransom Eli Olds and his contributions to the automotive industry. The museum has a variety of vintage cars and interesting artifacts that showcase the development of Oldsmobile and REO vehicles. It's a place where you can really get a sense of how the car industry has evolved over time. For anyone with an interest in automotive history, it's definitely worth a visit.


















Traverse City, Michigan


Colantha Walker was an exceptionally productive Holstein cow from Traverse City, Michigan, who gained fame in the early 20th century. Born in 1916, Colantha belonged to the Grand Traverse County Asylum's dairy herd. In 1926, she set a world record by producing 22,918 pounds of milk and 998 pounds of butterfat in a single year, an extraordinary achievement at that time.


Her impressive productivity made her a local celebrity, and she became a symbol of agricultural success and innovation in dairy farming. Colantha's contributions were celebrated by the community, and upon her death in 1932, she was buried on the asylum's grounds with a special headstone. Her legacy continues to be honored in Traverse City, where Colantha Walker remains a significant part of the region's history, symbolizing hard work and the advances in agricultural practices of her time.


Hippie Tree

The Hippie Tree in Traverse City, Michigan, is a quirky spot I enjoy checking out. It's an old, graffiti-covered tree that has a unique and creative vibe. It's a fun place to visit for a quick break and some interesting photos.  After a few hours on the bike, Ihad a chance to stretch my legs for a short hike.


The Traverse City Psychiatric Hospital, originally known as the Northern Michigan Asylum, was established in 1885 in Traverse City, Michigan, and served as a mental health institution until its closure in 1989. Designed following the "Kirkbride" plan, the hospital emphasized a therapeutic environment with abundant natural light, fresh air, and spacious grounds. At its height, the hospital accommodated thousands of patients, but it was eventually shut down due to the deinstitutionalization movement and shifts in mental health care practices.

Today, the historic buildings and grounds have been transformed into the Village at Grand Traverse Commons. This redevelopment project has preserved the architectural integrity of the original structures while repurposing them for modern use. The complex now includes a mix of shops, restaurants, residences, and offices, making it a vibrant community hub that honors its historical legacy. Additionally, the area hosts various events and markets, contributing to the local culture and economy.







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