Owendale, MI is a small town in the Thumb region of Michigan, known for its picturesque farms and cozy atmosphere. While the town itself may not have a rich history, several notable events have occurred near Owendale that have shaped the region's past. Here are seven historical events that have taken place near Owendale, MI.

1. The Saginaw Trail
The Saginaw Trail was once an important Native American trail that connected Detroit with Saginaw Bay. It passed through Owendale and was later transformed into a major transportation route for European settlers. The trail was eventually replaced by a modern highway system, but it played a significant role in the development of Michigan's transportation infrastructure.

2. The Fire of 1881
In 1881, a massive fire swept through the area around Owendale, destroying several buildings and forcing many residents to flee. The fire was caused by a spark from a passing locomotive, and it burned for three days before being brought under control. The fire resulted in significant damage to the town and its surrounding areas, but it also served as a rallying point for the community to rebuild.

3. The Tuscola and Saginaw Bay Railway
The Tuscola and Saginaw Bay Railway was a short-line railroad that operated throughout the Thumb region of Michigan, including near Owendale. The railway played a crucial role in connecting small towns and farms with larger markets, and it helped to spur economic development throughout the region.

4. The Thumb Fire of 1881
In 1881, a series of devastating wildfires swept through the Thumb region of Michigan, including near Owendale. The fires burned for weeks and destroyed more than a million acres of land, killing dozens of people and leaving many homeless. The Thumb Fire was one of the most significant wildfires in Michigan's history, and it resulted in a massive reforestation effort to help prevent future fires.

5. The Great Depression
The Great Depression had a significant impact on Michigan's economy, and many small towns like Owendale were hit hard. Unemployment soared, and many families struggled to make ends meet. However, the Depression also brought about significant changes in the way that the federal government supported workers and farmers, ultimately leading to the development of the New Deal.

6. The Holstein Association USA
The Holstein Association USA is a national organization that promotes the breeding and preservation of Holstein cattle. The association was founded in 1885 in nearby Battle Creek, MI, but its headquarters have been located near Owendale since 1915. Today, the Holstein Association is the largest dairy breed association in the world, with more than 30,000 members.

7. The Flint Water Crisis
The Flint Water Crisis began in 2014, when the city of Flint, MI switched its water supply from the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department to the Flint River. The river water was highly corrosive and caused lead and other contaminants to leach into the city's water supply, leading to health problems for many Flint residents. While the crisis occurred more than 100 miles from Owendale, many families in the region were deeply affected by the crisis and worked to provide support and assistance to those impacted by the water contamination.

In conclusion, while Owendale itself may not have a rich historical legacy, the region around the town has been shaped by many significant events throughout Michigan's history. From the Saginaw Trail to the Flint Water Crisis, these events have helped to shape the social, economic, and cultural landscape of the region.