Paul Austin
Bio
Paul is a noted freelance writer with hundreds of articles online and in print. Paul is motivated by regional foods. His most recent project is cataloging unique events in Michigan History. You can find more of his work at Michigan4You.com
Stories (24)
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When Sandwich Spread Meant Lunch - A Michigan Kitchen Staple
Before deli cases, meal kits, and pre-made salads, many Michigan households relied on simple sandwich spreads to get through the workweek. Among the most common was a chopped ham-and-bologna spread mixed with eggs, onion, celery, and mayonnaise. It was not flashy. It was dependable.
By Paul Austin2 days ago in Feast
1800s Michigan - The Story of the Long Wooden Docks Along Lake Huron
Along the shores of Lake Huron, long wooden docks once determined whether a town survived or faded. From the mid-1800s through the early 20th century, these structures served as the economic backbone of dozens of Michigan shoreline communities. Without them, commerce stalled, supplies ran thin, and towns struggled to connect with the outside world.
By Paul Austin7 days ago in History
Seafood Gumbo - A Historic American Classic Recipe With a Backstory
Seafood gumbo isn’t just dinner. It’s a story told in a pot — one that’s been simmering in Louisiana kitchens for more than two centuries. Every spoonful carries a mix of cultures, techniques, and hard-earned kitchen wisdom. Ask ten cooks how to make gumbo and you’ll get ten confident answers. That’s part of the point.
By Paul Austin9 days ago in Feast
A Season Away - Vacationing in the Early 1900s, When Time and Health Were the Luxury
At the turn of the 20th century, a vacation was not a break from work so much as a temporary relocation of life. Families packed trunks, not suitcases. They stayed for weeks, sometimes months. And they traveled not to escape stress, but to escape heat, illness, and the soot of industrial cities.
By Paul Austin11 days ago in Wander
The Blizzard of 1978: A Storm to Remember
Forty-five years ago, West Michigan was blanketed in snow as the infamous Blizzard of 1978 struck, forever altering the memories of those who experienced it. This storm, often referred to as the "Storm of the Century," brought chaos, beauty, and a sense of awe that still resonates today.
By Paul Austinabout a year ago in History
How to Be Free in 2026 - Start An Off-Grid Homestead - Video Review
Living off-grid sounds like a dream for many—a simpler life, a return to nature, and freedom from monthly bills. But how does one start, especially on a budget? This post summarizes a detailed YouTube video where an expert shares years of experience, from acquiring land to setting up water, power, and bathroom solutions. Dive into this guide and uncover the steps to creating your very own homestead
By Paul Austinabout a year ago in Lifehack
10 Incredible Historical Figures Who Changed the World in the Early 1900s. AI-Generated.
The early 1900s were a time of immense transformation across the world. Technological breakthroughs, revolutionary scientific discoveries, and social upheavals redefined the way people lived, worked, and thought. During this period, several influential figures emerged, leaving a lasting legacy on politics, science, art, and society. Here are 10 amazing historical celebrities from the early 1900s who profoundly shaped their respective fields and made their mark on history.
By Paul Austinabout a year ago in History
Why Pickle Juice Is All The Rage Right Now.
Pickle juice has been gaining popularity as a unique health elixir, intriguing many with its tangy flavor and purported benefits. In this article, we will uncover the nutritional wonders and potential advantages of this unconventional drink. From athletes seeking relief from muscle cramps to health enthusiasts exploring new wellness trends, pickle juice has piqued the interest of a diverse range of individuals.
By Paul Austinabout a year ago in Feast
Discover Holland, Michigan Through Live Cams
The city of Holland, Michigan, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant community, and rich history. Founded by Dutch immigrants in the mid-19th century, Holland has become a thriving destination filled with cultural heritage and modern developments. One of the best ways to explore this charming city from afar is through live webcams. These cams offer real-time views of popular spots, providing a unique way to experience Holland's beauty and daily life.
By Paul Austin2 years ago in Wander
Exploring the Waterfalls Near Asheville, NC
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, North Carolina, is more than just a vibrant arts hub and a haven for craft brewery enthusiasts—it's a gateway to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the United States. Among these are the myriad waterfalls scattered throughout the nearby forests, each varying in size, accessibility, and unique beauty. This guide will whisk you away on a journey through misty cascades and serene trails, all within a stone's throw of Asheville’s bustling downtown. If your looking to stay near these waterfalls, we found several luxury cabins in Asheville NC that are worth reviewing.
By Paul Austin2 years ago in Wander
The Story of Hotel Harvey
In the heart of Minden City, Michigan, stood a landmark that encapsulated over a century of community life, business, and local politics—the Hotel Harvey. Originally constructed in the late 1890s, this iconic building, which also went by names such as the West End Hotel, Hotel Lankin, and Kowalski Hotel, represented a pivotal piece of local history before its demolition in 2002. The Minden City Herald makes a point of placing historic photos of the area each week. This is from their post on the Hotel Harvey
By Paul Austin2 years ago in History
