Promote Michigan Blog

In the late 19th century, an adult education and social movement was moving across the United States called Chautauqua. The word was drawn from the Haudenosaunee — an Iroquois Confederacy of six nations. Centered around entertainment and culture for its members and the community, programs focused on religion, recreation, education, and the performing arts. Chautauquas often brought in speakers, musicians, preachers, teachers, authors, and other leaders of the time.

There’s been a flutter of activity lately around the plight of pollinators like bees and butterflies, specifically the monarch, and how creating or maintaining habitats help ensure the future of these vital winged insects. In the past year, several northwest Michigan communities — Elk Rapids, Kalkaska, Boyne City, Beaver Island and Melrose Township (Walloon Lake) — have become members of a national initiative called Monarch Cities USA, pledging to protect and provide for these butterflies.

The concept—a framed, backlit image—is simple. Yet, Helmscenes become much more than the sum of their parts once plugged in and switched on. Beloved by collectors today as ambiance-creating décor, Helmscenes transport their views to scenes near and far—and serve as physical reminders of the years in the mid-twentieth century when they were produced in Grand Rapids, Michigan.