Statehood: January 26, 1837 26th state
Origin of Name: Michigan is named for Lake Michigan which the Chippewa called Michigama, meaning "great lake" or "large lake".
State Capital: Lansing; Michigans first capital was Detroit, but it was moved to Lansing in 1847.
State Nickname: "Wolverine State" or "Water Wonderland"
State Motto: " If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you"
State Flag: Michigan's banner has a blue field and features a shield
flanked by an elk and a moose, both standing proudly on their hind legs across
the field is the Latin word Tuebor, which means "I will defend." Above the
shield rises the American eagle, symbolizing the federal goverment's ultimate
authority over the state.
State Bird: Robin
State Flower: Apple blossom
State Tree: White pine
State Fish: Brook trout
State Mineral: Petoskey
Population Density: 158 people per square miles (61 people per sq. km.)
Population Distribution: 71 percent urban, 29 percent rural
Highest Point: Mt. Curwood in Upper Peninsula, 1,980 (604m)
Lowest Point: Along Lake Erie 572 ft. (174m)
Greatest Distances:
Area: 58,527 square miles (151,584 sq. km)
Rank in Area Among the States: 23nd