Thursday, January 26, 2012: Michigan Statehood Day
WHEREAS, on January 26, 1837, President Andrew Jackson signed the bill that admitted Michigan as the Union's 26th state; and,
WHEREAS, the statehood compromise that allowed Ohio to keep Toledo in exchange for the western two-thirds of the Upper Peninsula greatly increased the mineral wealth, Great Lakes shoreline and scenic beauty that remain hallmarks of Michigan's quality of life and economic strength; and,
WHEREAS, the first Constitution of Michigan established a tradition of innovation and invention with its creation of a state superintendent of public instruction, the first such constitutional position in the nation; and,
WHEREAS, 175 years later, we continue to celebrate this spirit of innovation and reinvention, and upon this significant anniversary, we encourage all Michigan citizens to reflect on the successes and challenges, discoveries and inventions, values and wisdom of those who came before us in this great state; and,
WHEREAS, on Saturday, January 28, the Michigan Historical Museum will display Michigan's first Constitution and give visitors a chance to experience pioneer crafts, 175 years of Michigan invention and the latest motion-aware games from Michigan State University; and,
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Rick Snyder, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim Thursday, January 26, 2012 as Michigan Statehood Day.
