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
Abandoned Airport, Deserted Cemetery, and History in Salem, Michigan
You may think this sleepy little village has nothing of interest to see...but you'd be wrong. Details are here along with some vintage photos...
A Return Visit to the Deserted Neighborhoods of Idlewild, Michigan
Here are a fresh batch of photos showing the deserted neighborhoods of Idlewild. Included are some shots of how the business district looked in 1976.....
Meijer Memorabilia and the 1st Meijer Store in Greenville, Michigan (1934)
Take a look at the very first Meijer store from 1934, the inside of two permanently closed Meijer stores, and some Meijer memorabilia!
A Photo Gallery of Michigan Clothing Stores, 1900-1917
Take a look at some old Michigan clothing shops from 1900-1917!
“What’s Playing?” A Look at Michigan Theater Marquees, 1900-2000
Before we looked up theater menus on the internet, we relied on newspapers...or we had to drive by and look at the marquee. Here are a handful, showing what Michiganders were watching all those years ago...
Down in the 90-Foot Deep El Cajon Sinkhole: Alpena County, Michigan
FINALLY: A look down at the bottom of (what may be) Michigan's Most Infamous Sinkhole!
Kar’s: How a Street Vendor Turned Her Nuts Into a Million-Dollar Business: Detroit, Michigan
In 1933, she sold nuts on the street in front of Tiger Stadium...and ended up being a corporation. Here's the story...
The United Artists Theatre: A Look Inside After Being Abandoned for 50 Years: Detroit, Michigan
Once a palatial movie 'palace' for a few decades, it was reduced to showing 'adult' films in a failed attempt to stay open. Abandoned for 50 years, take a look inside before demolition took place...
Inside a Burnt and Abandoned Motel with Swimming Pool: Flint, Michigan
A section of this motel suffered a major blaze that ruined so much stuff that otherwise could have been salvaged.....
It Was a Michigan Favorite, but Who Remembers O-So Pop? Detroit, Michigan
O-So ranks up there with Faygo, Towne Club, and Hi-Klas, right or wrong? Here's some brief background and a few photos...