A Michigan Thing

There ain’t no party like a ______ party.
Fill in the blank!

Did you know Michigan has been shaping the nation’s walls and ceilings for nearly 200 years? The story starts in 1827, when gypsum was first discovered near Plaster Creek—and it’s been transforming both West and Northeast Michigan ever since.

Grand Rapids’ Underground Maze
Beneath Grand Rapids and Wyoming lies a hidden world: a labyrinth of gypsum mines that stretches for miles.

* Ancient Origins: Gypsum formed 300 million years ago when the Michigan Basin was a shallow, evaporating inland sea.
* Mining Marvels: Miners used the “room and pillar” method, leaving pillars to hold up ceilings, carving out tunnels that would last generations.
* The Alabastine Mine: Hand-dug in 1907, this Wyoming, MI, underground network now houses Michigan Natural Storage, using the tunnels’ constant 50°F temperature for cooling—modern tech meeting historic craftsmanship.

I dont want to hear anyone complain about the heat after the Winter we just had!

This is always one of my favorite things about Michigan!

There’s something special about a sleep porch. They offer a simple, peaceful way to enjoy fresh air, watch the stars, and connect with the slow rhythm of summer nights—just like families did decades ago. For those who still use them, even occasionally, they’re a little slice of classic Michigan summer life.