The Backstory: Early Ann Arbor’s multiple newspapers
Newspaper options are increasingly limited these days. But Ann Arbor's early history contains a long list of strongly partisan publications.
Patti Smith's Latest Articles
The Backstory: City Council matters
With the impending local primary election just a week away, Concentrate's part-time historian Patti Smith digs into the history of Ann Arbor's first city council.
The Backstory: The truth behind “Big” Jim Ashley
Local legend says that Ashley Street in downtown Ann Arbor was named after James "Big Jim" Ashley -- railroad builder, state representative, and governor. Only there were two Jim Ashleys and neither quite fits the lore. Or do they? Patti Smith uncovers the truth.
The Backstory: School’s out for summer!
School's out for summer. Out till fall. And some might not go back at all. Concentrate's armchair historian Patti Smith looks at how old timey Ann Arbor once celebrated high school graduation.
The Backstory: Gambling, seances and sandals made the Kayser Building
A gun shop begat a hotel begat a gambling den begat a tea house begat a community center begat a barbershop begat a Birkenstock shop. After 117 years Ann Arbor's Kayser Building is still adding to its colorful history.
The Backstory: Be our guest!
Downtown Ann Arbor is abuzz with new and expanded guest accommodations. There are rumors more are on the horizon! This is nothing new. The city has a long history of hotels being built, burned down, and renamed over the last century. Patti Smith gives the nickel tour!
The Backstory: Ain’t no party like an Ann Arbor party
With the annual Water Hill Music Fest coming up this weekend, Concentrate's resident historian Patti Smith takes a gander back at Ann Arbor's long-standing desire to party hearty.
The Backstory: Water, water everywhere
Ann Arbor has a first class water treatment system, but that wasn't always the case. Concentrate's resident historian Patti Smith takes a look at the city's long-standing connection to the Huron River.
The Backstory: The evolution of U-M football
Once upon a time U-M football coaches wore top-hats and protective padding was for wimps. In celebration of the Michigan History Project's latest book release, Patti Smith takes a peek at how the Wolverines and their fans have evolved over the last 90 years.
The Backstory: Ice Skating in Ann Arbor
After a hiatus that stretched for decades, seasonal ice skating rinks have returned to Ann Arbor parks. Concentrate's Patti Smith digs into city's longstanding relationship with a sport the 1893 Argus proclaimed to be “one of the most exhilarating of all pastimes.”
