Dive Into Michigan's Rich History with Two Special August 10 Events
The Petoskey District Library invites the community to take a fascinating journey through Michigan's rich business and cultural history with two special presentations at the Carnegie Building on Monday, August 10, celebrating the companies, products, and entrepreneurs that helped shape the Great Lakes State.
History comes to life as Hugh Grinnell, great-grandson of company co-founder Herbert Grinnell, shares the incredible story of the Grinnell Brothers Music House at 1:00pm. Beginning with three orphaned brothers who arrived in Adrian, Michigan, in 1867, the presentation traces how an unexpected opportunity in musical instruments led to the founding of the Grinnell Brothers company in Ann Arbor in 1879.
What started as a small wooden storefront grew into an international success. By 1895, the company had relocated its headquarters to Detroit's iconic Grinnell Building on Woodward Avenue, and by 1950 had become the largest music company in the world, operating 40 branch stores—including one in Petoskey. Hugh Grinnell's presentation features hundreds of rare historic photographs from the 19th and 20th centuries, offering a captivating glimpse into Michigan's musical and business heritage.
Join Authors Gail Offen and Jon Milan for Classic Michigan Food and Drinks: The Stories Behind the Brands at 7:00pm as they explore the remarkable history behind many of Michigan's most beloved food and beverage brands. From breakfast cereal pioneers Kellogg's and Post to Gerber's baby food, attendees will discover how Michigan companies changed the way people eat around the world. The presentation also highlights hometown favorites such as American Spoon, Better Made potato chips, Faygo, Jiffy, Sanders, Vernors, cherries, Michigan fudge, pasties, and nostalgic brands like Awrey's and Twin Pines. Filled with fascinating stories and local history, this program offers a fresh look at the foods that have become part of Michigan's identity.
Together, these two engaging programs celebrate the innovation, entrepreneurship, and homegrown brands that have left a lasting mark on Michigan and beyond. Whether your interests are in history, food, music, or local culture, these presentations offer something for everyone.
For more information about other library events, please call 231-758-3100, or visit our Event Calendar. The library’s hours are Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.