John Robinson was raised in Stockbridge and began his media career at age 15 playing bass guitar and singing in a local rock band. From there he went into radio after receiving his license in 1974, along with being a TV host, author (ten books published to date), columnist, actor, producer, and emcee. He's been honored as Contributor of the Year by Townsquare Media and has also received a President's Club Award. His passions are all kinds of pop culture and Michigan history.
John Robinson
At One Time It Was the Largest City in Iosco County: Au Sable, Michigan
After the fire of 1911, the population of 10,000 shrank to 200. Here's a brief bio and some vintage photographs...
The Spectator: Jackson Prison’s Newspaper By (and for) the Inmates: 1930-1991
It was entertaining and a creative outlet for the prisoners. Here's a few images and some details...
A Look at Lansing’s Michigan Avenue: 1900-1948
The route hasn't changed, but man, the shops and storefronts sure have. Here are photos of Lansing's Michigan Avenue from 1900-1948...
When ‘Old Town’ Was Known as “North Lansing”: A Timeline, 1825-1848
In the 1840s an attempt to have the capitol built here was squashed by the governor; the area was then splintered off and named 'North Lansing'. Here's a timeline and some old photos...
Drone Views of the Demolished Psychiatric Hospital: Northville, Michigan
This site was a haven for trespassers and ghost-hunters; now it's demolished to make way for a park. Here are some drone photos...
The Inverness Inn and Country Store of North Lake: Washtenaw County, Michigan
Here are a few details and old photos of the Inverness at North Lake and a look at the country store that was recently removed...
You Think the Kellogg’s Corn Flakes Rooster Signifies a Morning Wakeup? Guess Again
For years it was believed the Kellogg's Corn Flakes rooster symbolized "crowing to get you up in the morning". Nope. Here's the real reason the rooster is on the box...
Old Thanksgiving Traditions We Don’t Do Anymore
The Thanksgiving traditions of yesterday dealt more with family togetherness and activities...today, many of those traditions have fallen by the wayside. Here are some examples...
Vintage Photos of Oakley in Saginaw County, Michigan: 1900-1914
One of the largest manufacturers of Michigan Hardwoods started in this Saginaw County town. Here are some old photos of the town of Oakley...
Drinkin’ Fightin’ & Sinnin’ – The Ghost Town of Walton Junction, Michigan
Remaining in this little ghost town are a few residents, along with its past reputation. Here are some details and photos...