1. Michigan became a state on October 1, 1837
On October 1, 1837, Michigan joined the Union as the 26th state. The capital of Michigan is Lansing. Michigan is the 11th largest state by total area.

2. Ford Motor Company was founded on October 1, 1903
The Ford Motor Company, which would later become one of America's most prominent automakers, was founded on October 1, 1903, by Henry Ford in Detroit. The company revolutionized the manufacturing process, making it possible to produce vehicles on a large scale and at lower prices.

3. Michigan's first game of college football was played on October 1, 1869
On October 1, 1869, the University of Michigan played the inaugural game of college football in the state, against a team from Racine, Wisconsin. The game ended in a 1-1 tie.

4. The Mackinac Bridge was opened on October 1, 1957
The Mackinac Bridge, which connects Michigan's upper and lower peninsulas, was opened on October 1, 1957. The bridge spans the Straits of Mackinac and is a popular tourist destination, with more than 4 million vehicles crossing it each year.

5. Michigan Oktoberfest celebrations start on October 1
Oktoberfest celebrations take place throughout Michigan during the month of October, with many starting on October 1. These celebrations include traditional German foods, music, and of course, beer. Frankenmuth, Michigan is known as "Michigan's Little Bavaria" and is home to one of the largest Oktoberfest celebrations in the state.