Michigan Minute
The Potawatomi "Trail of Death" and Felix Schlag’s Nickel Legacy | September 4
On this day in 1838, over 850 Potawatomi, including 150 from Michigan, were forced west on the "trail of death," though some in Dowagiac resisted thanks to leader Leopold Pokagon. In 1891, Felix Schlag, the designer of the U.S. nickel used from 1938 to 2004, was born. His initials, FS, appear under Jefferson’s bust on nickels from 1966 onward. Schlag spent his final years in Owosso, Michigan.
- Duration:
- 1m
- Broadcast on:
- 04 Sep 2024
- Audio Format:
- mp3
It's September 4th, and this is your Michigan Minute. After Congress passed the Indian Removal Act of 1830, it was on this day in 1838, and more than 850 members of the Potawatomi tribe, including 150 from Michigan were forced to march westward on what was called the Trail of Death. However, there exists a band of Potawatomi into Anjek, Michigan, who resisted relocation successfully, thanks to negotiations of their tribal leader, Leopold, Pokugon. And today, in 1891, the German immigrant, Michigander, Felix Oster Schlag, was born. You likely had his initials in your pocket at some time, since it was his design on the five-set nickel coin that was used from 1938 to 2004, and you can see the FS underneath the bus of Thomas Jefferson and Nichols from 1966 on. Felix Schog's final years were spent in Oasso, Michigan, where he also is in turn. And that is your Michigan Minute. (upbeat music)