Angelic View of Hell (Volume 1)

Personal Essays

Stockbridge Area Newsletter Page 1 All Rights Reserved © 2014

Personal Essays


Angelic View Of

Hell 2014 (Fall 2013~Fall 2014)

Volume 1

Tina Cole~Mullins

Personal Essays


“Upon havin’ been smothered in a cold darkness designed by other’s to conform to their version of who I should be, I woke from that darkness to find me… Just like a spring flower fightin’ to come forth and share its beauty despite the cold, I pushed forward by a guidin’

light to grow beyond the darkness; now of only which can be found at night.” ~Angel n’Hell 2013~

Personal Essays


Table of Contents

Essays: Page

Welcome To Hell An Angelic View 5

The Great Blue Heron 6

Coyote’s Night Call 7

Giving Thanks 8

Happy Holiday’s from Hell 9

Happy New Year from Hell 10

Hell Freezes Over 11

Valentine’s Locked in Love 12

When Hell Freezes Over 13

Dammit All To Hell ~82 14

Honeymoon in Hell ~April 9, 1960 15

Inspiration 16

The morel of the story is… ~Part One~ 17

The morel of the story is… ~Conclusion~ 18

Helluva Friday the 13th 19

Hell of a Storm ~1914 20

Casket Grilled Corn on the Cob 21

To Hell & Back For our Troops 22

Seriously Amazing Smithsonian in Hell 23

Hellfest 2014 24

Centuries of Spirits 25 Poems:

Hellz Winter Beauty 27

Spring Comes to Hell 28

Serene Sunday in Hell 29

Hellz Summer Show 30

Autumn Daze 31

Personal Essays


Welcome to Hell an

Angelic View One cannot be a part of this community without haven’t been told in various ways to “go to hell” in either the literal or metaphorical sense. Many of us have choose to go there, some are raised there, and many vacation there, while others such as myself prefer to reside there. What makes Hell such a hot destination or topic depends on one’s perception, desire, and time of year amongst numerous and various reasons throughout Hellz History. For many it is simply the novelty of the town’s name, for some it is the religious protest of the name such as some displayed on 666-June 6, 2006 and the following year 777-July 7, 2007. Although these reasons bring travelers from far and near the whole year round, it is my view that it goes deeper than the name. For myself Hell runs deep within my soelz just as the water ways run throughout its acreage hosting over 20 nearby lakes as well as numerous tributaries connecting to the Huron river. I believe it is the picturesque scenic beauty of the surrounding area that draws people to this little town. Not only is it a scenic beauty but one can also find an array of activities Hellz community has to offer; such as family friendly activities enjoyed at ScreamS Ice Cream & Diner, putt putt golf, canoeing & kayaking, horseback riding, picnicking and year round recreation. Hell also plays host to various annual events such as the Hellfest Hearse Show, of which in 2011 gained national attention of the Guinness World Record for setting the Longest Hearse Parade with 51 hearses in procession. Whatever it is that intrigues you about Hell, be it the good or evil let me continue to share with you my Angelic View of Hell on a regular basis, from the point of view of a true Hellion known to many simply as Angel n’Hell. With Halloween soon upon us Hell will be hosting ongoing Helloween activities, hope to see you in Hell. October 25, 2013 (Vol. 2 Issue 21)

Personal Essays


The Great Blue Heron

The serene early morning sounds of Hell were shattered giving way to the multitude sound of echoing gunfire upon the lakes; a sound familiar to me once a year announcing “duck season” has come. Over my morning coffee I see I have a well-known visitor the “Great Blue Heron” yet this morning unlike all others he sought refuge close to home instead of at a distance on the canal or lake, he chose to enjoy his morning meal off the banks of my back yard. Although a mild morning to enjoy setting on the deck I know this will soon come to an end for this year. The crispness in the air brings forth my favorite time of year; as I enjoy watching the leaves begin to spiral down amongst a backdrop of vibrant fall colors. This year I found myself appreciating a slower pace in life and recapturing simpler ways taught to me throughout my childhood; one being the gathering of black walnuts. When fall was upon us we would seek out walnut trees and fill several crates full. They would then be emptied into the driveway to allow for cars to drive over them crushing the outer hulls; they would then be re-crated and stored to dry. As the last warmth of the year progresses into the now present constant chill, the familiar sounds of Hell change as well. The once subtle sounds surrounding Hell have become amplified making their way through the now visibly bare grove of trees secluding our home. The ongoing sound of Harley’s gives way to an occasional few die-hard enthusiasts taking each opportunity given as if it will be the last ride of the year; as it just may be. November gives way to the finishing touches of fall clean-up, the smell of burning leaves, camp or bonfires replaced by that of wood stoves and fire places. The occasional hint of apple cinnamon or pumpkin spice fills the air; especially from my home this year. Those childhood simple ways relived as I strive for that perfect homemade pie recipe just in time for Thanksgiving. This year I will not only be thankful for my family and friends but also thankful for the opportunity to slow down and enjoy the simple life and Hells beauty that surrounds me as well as share it with you. November 8, 2013 (Vol. 2 Issue 22)

Personal Essays


Coyote’s Night Call

Hellz familiar sounds grow muffled as the brisk chill in the air gives way and grows colder prompting us to shut the windows. This past month we have seen warm autumn days, snow covered morning’s and here recently the destruction produced by severe weather leaving many throughout our community without power and the loss of life to a young Leslie man. Having our place upon a canal surrounded by forest state land; surrounding the lake/pond know by several names such as Hell pond, Mud or Carp lake, it is as if we are in a wind tunnel. Surprisingly we fared much better than so many around us. It was this past month and last warm evening allowing for windows to be open that I was introduced to an unfamiliar sound; a sound I often have heard others speak of and many mention hearing throughout the area. Being so familiar with the sounds of Hell I could not recall ever having heard the sound so many described. That is until recently as daylight was giving way and darkness claims its remnants; bringing to life the sounds of night. A piercing cry fills the air followed by the return cry of many; a haunting sound described by others gave no doubt I had heard for my first time the call of a nearby pack of coyote. One may think with winter upon us soon there would be little to do in Hell, this is not true. Summer recreation is replaced by that of winter sports. The sounds of Harley’s will soon give way to that of the snowmobiles. The steady flow of fisher men to our lake has ceased for now as many have turned to various types of hunting. Those too will soon end being replaced by the eager watch for Hell to freeze over a sign that ice-fishing has come. It is then my fishing friend’s return; some die hard enough to brave the cold without protection while others prefer their ice shanty. I have been known to take out a warm drink or cup of homemade soup; as I learn what it takes to be an ice-fisher (wo) man Nov. 22, 2013 (Vol. 2 Issue 23)

Personal Essays


Giving Thanks

This past week many gathered together giving their thanks surrounded by family and friends marking that the holiday season is upon us. So often we become nostalgic and reminiscent of holiday’s past while creating memories with those yet to come. Thanksgiving around our house growing up as with many, hosted numerous people for the feast. Our meal was served earlier than most, usually being done by noon. In order to have it prepared so early mom would slow roast the turkey and dressing throughout the night. Sleep was hard to achieve as the subtle scent of sage and poultry seasoning blended with that of the turkey, erupting into full blown deliciousness tantalizing ones taste buds. You would know it was close to noon and dinner time without a clock because Cousin Larry was never late; for those friends and family who know me, you would know who he is. Just as he would arrive on schedule he would leave on schedule as well, allowing time to make it to Aunt Minnie’s (his mom) and often on to his Aunt Rose’s. This year for the first time we we’re joined by Cousin Randy claiming “Dude, this stuffing is killer!” Throughout the years I have transformed my mother’s recipe into that of my own and past memories have been blended with our own traditions and a much smaller gathering than those from childhood. But holding true to some of our childhood memories; this year returning to some of those simpler ways serving dishes from the fruits of this year’s harvest making a homemade pumpkin pie, Dutch apple and a mixed berry crumble. This year was a bountiful harvest of wild raspberries we found on a piece of the state land surrounding our place; having discovered this wild treasure we cleared all the over growth, trimming back the dead vines~looking forward to next year’s bounty of which we hope to double. As many traditions host the “Black Friday” madness this year in Hell I witnessed another form of tradition for some and can also be viewed as madness; one I knew would soon come but never this early. Those eager diehard ice~fisherman never cease to amaze me with their eagerness to test their luck venturing out upon the newly formed ice. Having been in Hell many winters now it has come to my attention our canal is one of the first areas to freeze over; although never have I seen it freeze over this soon, let alone to the degree of hosting a full day of Hellz venturous ones displaying their own Black Friday madness. This year the boys fared well so far at staying above the ice, when the past years many weren’t as fortunate and thankfully as of yet no seriousness has come from their antics. Friday’s madness was replaced Saturday with a subtle warmth and transparency of the ice “WARNING” diehards off for a few more days. There is no doubt my landscape will soon hold the addition of ice shanty’s. It is then I may venture out onto the ice, just maybe I will try my luck this year. Although Hell has now come to a slower pace the time will soon come for “Hell to Freeze Over” transforming the scenic landscape into a sparkling beauty. December 6, 2013 (Vol. 2 Issue 24)

Personal Essays


Happy Holiday’s from Hell

With the winter solstice upon us this week and Christmas soon to come; family, friends and community join as one to celebrate. We have had one helluva start to the winter season with Father Winter displaying his talent in a picturesque show covering Hell and surrounding area in a shared blanket of snow. This does not deter a true Michigander from pushing through the hustle and bustle filled with holiday cheer in search of that perfect gift for their loved ones; gifts of the most popular toys or the latest technology. With community celebrations such as festivals of lights, or hosting a visit from Santa to engage a child’s delight. We capture it all and in an instant; shared around the world just as fast as Santa’s sleigh ride each year on a magical night. With the world connected in a much faster pace it can leave some reflecting on simpler ways of the past. While setting enjoying our winter scene it is not the past Christmas’s as we know them or that of our parents and grandparents often shared that I ponder but that of Hellz first settlers celebration that comes to mind. As I venture off to a historical place and time I soon find my picturing of the first Christmas in Hell to be unfounded seeing as Hell is older than that of Christmas past we would imagine. When the Reeve’s family (surname of English descent) first settled in the area of Hell depending on their religious practicing would have determined the celebration. With the American Revolution many English customs and celebrations declined including that of Christmas; once outlawed in Boston similar to the story we all know so well Santa Claus is Coming to Town. Would the early settlers in the area have had a holiday feast? In many cases yes but the feast and celebration varied by culture, religion and dates of observance. Often ones wealth helped determine the feast, with the Reeve’s having a flourishing business and community in Hell a grand menu with turkey, goose, ham, mincemeat and other various dishes and treats can be visioned and of course holiday spirits from his distillery. Would the Reeves family have sought out the perfect Christmas tree to decorate? Probably not seeing as this German tradition was still viewed as a form of paganism. But would soon gain popularity once Queen Victoria and Prince Albert (German) embraced the decorating of a tree in the 1840’s.

Had the Reeves family however been a family followed in the crusade to have Christmas declared a holiday they could be pictured celebrating in what has now become traditional celebrations. They could follow lead of Washington Irving’s short story in 1819 and his portrayal of an English manor celebration focused on the meaning of “Christ~Mass” and family; or that of Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol wrote 2 years after Hell was founded. Maybe George Reeves would have set by the fire where stockings were hung reading Twas’ the Night Before Christmas to his children. One can only imagine and speculate how Hellz first settlers celebrated the holiday’s, but one fact remains Christmas would not become a federal holiday for three more decades in 1870 and by the end of the 1800’s Francis Pharcellus Churchan editor at a New York newspaper answered a little girls question stating Yes, Virginia, There Is A Santa Claus. December 20, 2013 (Vol. 2 Issue 25)

Personal Essays


Happy New Year from Hell

As December comes to a close along with 2013 the new year always brings forth closure to the past year good or bad; new resolutions, goals, hope and reflection for many. With the Christmas celebrations shared by family and friends; the food was plenty, gifts shared, games played along with holiday specials watched from the warmth of our homes. However for many near and around the outer community areas there were no twinkling lights or holiday specials watched from the warmth of home; it was more a task to keep warm, candle light replaced twinkling lights while electronic games were replaced with board or card games and the Christmas feast consisted of what could be cooked without electricity due to the recent ice-storm. If we were the fortunate ones who kept power or had it soon restored many of us knew of someone without at some point through the holiday. It was not hard for me to imagine how others we’re managing just as I am sure many of you over 35 and long-time residents of our community; can easily recall the New Year ice storm that greeted 1985. That was by far one of the only times as a kid I appreciated having to heat with a wood stove. Boy could mom and dad both cook a whole meal on that thing. Nothing like a good ol’ hot meal of soup beans, corn bread and fried chicken, then of course you had biscuits and gravy for breakfast, pork chops, fried apples and meat sop. But of course our New Year dinner was black-eyed peas and ham hock, true to a southern tradition thought to bring prosperity in the new year. Not that we had many prosperous years, but we sure had plenty black-eyed peas. We spent the first 5 days of that year without power, being we had the wood stove we kept all the kids from the neighboring apartments with us the whole time and feed many of the adults as well. For me it is times like these I often reflect on and truly appreciate the simple ways taught us by our parents, grandparents and extended family throughout this community. It is this community spirit and other small town community’s such as ours that were founded on simple ways that our upbringing makes major power outages easier to fare as to those in the city I believe. Many have alternative forms of heat or knows someone close who does. There is more family than not, odds are you know someone with heat or power and what good is having a wood stove if you don’t have those good ol’ cast iron skillets or Dutch ovens to cook with; often handed down from our mom’s and grandma’s. It is also these trying times that you find not only in the country but the city as well; greater and random acts of kindness shine through. From Hell to Stockbridge, those in between and around I wish you one Helluva 2014. Who knows maybe “Hell Freezes Over” this year; a topic and its origin to further explore? January 3, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 1)

Personal Essays


Hell Freezes Over

Less than a month into winter and it has proven to be one helluva start to the new year weather wise; from an icy Christmas in comparison to the ice storm of “85” to a blizzardy New Year in comparison to that of “78” followed by the bitter cold of an arctic blast. Mother nature did not leave me to long pondering “Will this be the year for Hell to Freeze Over?” This has always been a popular metaphorical saying, but for anyone one truly familiar with Hell knows in a literal sense Hell does in fact freeze over. But what and who determines if Hell has frozen over, this has been a topic of discussion amongst myself and other hellions surrounding Hellz hamlet. My questioning of the saying began with the first snowfall of the year and the popular viral photo of ice cycles hanging off the Hell sign. I find humor in those who feel Hell has frozen over with a slight dusting of snow. Just like the origin of Hellz name having several variations to the story so does the meaning of “Hell Froze Over.” Some feel Hell freezes over every year, some feel it’s a few snowflakes while others view it as a more historical meteorologist take such as the one I tend to lean toward. We can all find the humor in “Hell Freezing Over”, yet there is little humor found in those days when Hell sees consecutive sub-zero temperatures like those of recent days. Several fellow Hellions agree throughout the years it has been said Hell is not considered froze over until these consecutive sub-zero temperatures create such an ice buildup on Hi-Land lake that a natural ice dam builds up blocking the water flow of the dam to cease. Something I personally witnessed in “94” if my memory is correct. I also recall hearing through a news broadcast the same year being reported this being only the second time in recorded history this event having happened, the first having been over seventy years before. Ironically “94” is also the year The Eagles reunited launching their “Hell Freezes Over” tour. No matter who/how Hell Freezing Over is determined the fact remains on January 8, 2014 after several days of bitter cold temperatures Hell makes national news once again with the headline being in variations of “It’s so cold Hell has frozen over” from the Today Show, ABC News, Kelly & Michael Show, BBC and numerous other news forums. Although I have not heard it mentioned or ventured out to witness it myself; I am unaware that this cold snap has stopped the flow of the dam. I do know not only the cold snap but also the accumulation of snow has stopped the flow of traffic for the ice fisherman to one of their favorite spot with their parking area inaccessible; I do not feel that will keep them away for long. So no matter your view of Hell Freezing Over, in the eyes of reporters and journalists nationwide Hell has officially frozen over this year. January 17, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue)

Personal Essays


Valentine’s Locked in Love

It’s not often one thinks of love or Valentine’s day when they think of Hell, but there are those who think what better place than Hell to get married. With those thoughts in mind in 2005 John Colone added The Wedding Chapel of Hell, adorned with blue doors to keep out evil spirits and coining the phrase “Because a marriage in Hell has no place to go but up.” Now one can reserve a spot in Hell to exchange their nuptials and what could make it sweeter than a Valentine’s anniversary. Already married and/or feel your love is “eternal” and want it “Locked in Love” forever in Hell; bring a padlock and lock it on the bridge of love followed by throwing the key into Hell Creek for some dam good luck~ a tradition started in the city of love Paris, France. I would have to say my parents were ahead of their time; although they didn’t get married in Hell they did spend their honeymoon night there in the spring of 1960. Myself when I think of Hell and love, not only do I think of my parents and the novelties now hosted~I think more so of how deep my love goes for this beautiful scenic treasure. How deep it has called to my soelz for so many years and how my true love lead me to Hell the summer of my “Sweet 16”. Although my parents spent their honeymoon in Hell and my mother had lived there in her teens, rarely did my family venture to Hell when I was growing up. It was the summer I turned 16 and my new boyfriend introduced me to Hell. With many of our late afternoon and weekends spent at Silver, Half Moon or Pickerel lake; cooking out, swimming and falling in love. A couple summers later we would be married as our journey to Hell continued. For many of those years spent visiting Hell I enjoyed not only it’s scenic beauty but could also enjoy my soelz passion with weekend nights full of dancing and building lifelong friendships with the musicians that frequented Hell. With in-laws from Hell (pun intended) more time was spent in Hell for family functions along with family friendly community events of the past such as the Buzzard Fest or another favorite of mine Helluva Cruise. It would be twenty years of visiting Hell before I could truly call it home. So it’s not hard for me to think of Hell and feel the love and history that surrounds me. Hell resonates deep within my soelz and I’m destined to remain here, there’s no place I’d rather be all I have to do is look around me and I see love. February 14, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 4)

Personal Essays


When Hell Freezes Over

From ice-storms to blizzardy whiteouts and Hell freezing over, we have seen a little bit of everything this winter. With thicker ice than normal this year on our canal the flow of ice~fisherman has ceased to nothing, with the fish having moved deeper than their favorite honey hole. Having started the month with the ground hogs prediction of six more weeks of bad weather, we now mark that half-way point. For those of you who grew up with and/or still follow the Farmer’s Almanac~March brings with it a weathery mix; with more snow and including unseasonably cold temperatures on into April. Many of the mornings growing up I would awake to find my father enjoying his morning coffee reading the Farmer’s Almanac of which guided him when to plant the garden and when to watch for frost. I now find myself following his teachings although my almanac is found bookmarked in my favorite’s online. No matter the weather, no matter the almanac and no matter the gophers prediction the fact remains the spring solstice is only three weeks and one issue of the newsletter away. With cabin fever getting the best of some~spring fever is spreading into an epidemic state of mind; myself included. For too few of day’s this past week the thermometer has been above freezing with the mercury giving a brief brush in some areas near or just over the 40° mark. My guess is I am not the only one that opened a window on those days if only for a little while. I have also found myself setting beside an outdoor winter fire on more than one occasion the past week. Although there are few signs of spring; I do believe I glimpsed a confused robin encouraging it along. With talk of spring on the lips of many; there is also another conversation amongst some in Hell and the surrounding area of those who live near or upon one of the various lakes or waterways; and that is the conversation of not “IF” we flood but that of “How bad will we flood?” If one were to look at the topography of Hell it is my opinion based off this that I live in the lowest, geographical, livable point of Hell~also meaning I live below the dam and chain of lakes. I did not let this deter me from living here; I just turned a negative into a positive bought a 4x4 and say it’s like living in a houseboat a month out of a year. Throughout the years I have often heard many say they would not like the flooding of such as mine. With a back deck sizable enough for a small table and chairs, I can appreciate and enjoy nature at its best. This is when my deck turns into my outside office and I can often be found enjoying my morning coffee as I work while feeding the families of geese with their baby goslings able to swim up and join me. It’s moments such as these that I long for and turn the image of a flood plane into nature right outside the back door waiting to be enjoyed. February 28, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 5)

Personal Essays


Photo: Thorpe, S. The Detroit News.

March 27, 1982

Dammit All To Hell~82

As the warmer days have come and the thaw begun, they say once again to prepare for accumulating snow. Snow that will also have to thaw and no doubt raise the water level even more; this said before the spring rains have come. All this however does not discourage or worry me as I know brighter days are ahead. I also know no matter the level of flooding to come it will be nothing in comparison to the “Dam Flood of “82” now that was one Helluva flood here in Hell. Through the years I have heard many stories from those who witnessed and some of whom even experienced the flooding. “Oh, Hell the dam has gone.” When on Friday; March 26, 1982 a dreary spring morning around ten the Hell Creek dam gave way flooding six homes, a duplex and up to fifteen mobile homes~over twenty families were evacuated and displaced. Having been constructed in the late 1800’s and after decades of being deemed dangerous in 1947. The dam spent years amongst legalities with today’s current dam designed in the early 70’s and ironically not scheduled to be erected in the summer of “82”. Even the constant complaints and inquires by residents in jeopardy the only aid giving came a few days before the flood in the way of sandbags. That was to no avail when water levels rose to over 3 feet above the floor levels of the mobile homes on the lower level flood plain. Six truckloads of large boulders were brought in to sustain the creek banks until the new dam could be erected. These days the boulders can still be found above the dam. Although the homes remain there are only four of the mobile homes left of which only two are occupied one of which is mine. I often look around and find it hard to believe there was once at least 15 trailers and a duplex upon this tract of land. I do have to selfishly admit I am not sorry they are gone; as I love my seclusion flooding included it’s all part of the Hell. March 28, 214 (Vol. 3 Issue 7)

Personal Essays


Honeymoon in Hell ~April 9, 1960

Every journey and every story has a beginning and mine began with the marriage of my parents on April 9, 1960. As the story goes they spent their honeymoon in Hell at the Dewey house which still stands and in the Dewey family from what I hear. Not only was this their honeymoon but also the beginning of their family, with the birth of my brother 9 months later and in my opinion conceived in Hell. I have often wondered if the Dewey School, Dewey road and Dewey house in Hell held family ties; maybe through my research I will one day know. Growing up one of my cherished memories was packing up a lunch and go riding around or as we like to call it “dirt roadin”; in all those trips I recall very few visits to Hell. Although occasionally we’d visit my mother’s best friend from childhood. I spent years listening to my mother’s stories of her time spent in Hell in the 50’s; where she lived when she was a young girl and met her best friend. Stories of summers spent swinging’ from a rope into the Hi-land lake above the dam. There were also mischievous tales of her brothers antic’s which would often lead to their getting’ in trouble; or my mother “the mother hen” to her mischievous brood getting’ her into trouble for not watching’ her little brothers better. I myself did not grow to appreciate or know the beauty of Hell until the summer of my “Sweet 16”, and dating. Most of those days were spent as my mother had years before; swimming, grillin’ and summer~time fun on one of the many lakes. Two years later I was also married although we did not honeymoon in Hell; we came close~camping at Bishop lake. Ironically all these years later I find myself living on the property that once was my mother’s friend’s family property; the family long since gone. Barely a day goes by that I don’t pass the old Dewey place, reminiscent of the Honeymoon in Hell always left with a smile. April 11, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 8)

Personal Essays


Inspiration can be found all around you.~Author Unknown

It was about this time last year when I came across this quote; while thoughts of hosting a blog highlighting Hell was coming into creation. I was not clear on how I would approach this until I came across a copy of the Stockbridge Area Newsletter; it was at that moment I felt I had found my forum. The title Angelic View of Hell reminiscent too Jane Bollinger's essay’s “A View from My Window” of which I am sure many of you are familiar with; having been a regular column in The Town Crier. With this quote, Bollinger’s words and this forum I found the inspiration all around me creatin’ my view of Hell. I was able to combine both ideas of the local newsletter and a Facebook blog reaching a broader following, as far away as Australia. How true those words are; inspiration is found all around me~not only in the visual aspect of Hellz surrounding beauty, but also in one’s perception of Hell and it’s rich history. History that pre-dates statehood as well as overlaps in areas outside of Hellz boundaries throughout neighboring communities. I’m always on the lookout for intriguing stories or pieces of history, the story not readily found on the internet. Which leads me to the topic of the week with myself and those familiar with the area especially this piece of property I am on. My question “Why do I have to 2 headstones just off the drive?” Although I had forgot about them until recently so we took a closer look yesterday; as I told the story that I heard upon the discovery of them my first spring here. It seems back in the 80’s around the time of the flood that there was an older man who lived in one of the places up front. This man was also a grounds keeper or grave digger for the Pinckney cemetery and for whatever reason would bring home unused or discarded grave markers. So far those I have spoken with about these grave stones agree that is the story they know as well. Personally after taking a closer look at them yesterday I feel I need to “dig a lil’ deeper” pun intended~seeing as the stones are still in good condition and have inscription and dates on them reading FATHER PATRICK 1848-1933 & MOTHER 1857-1928. I’m sure this discovery will lead me to the historical section of the library here soon. Some not as familiar with Hell suggest someone’s buried there; while long time Hellions agree on the old grave-digger story each of us having our own view. April 25, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 9)

Personal Essays


The morel of the story is…

~Part One~ As a child spring would finally burst forth bringing with it warmer days and spring time flowers. With the first rainy night followed by a sun shining morning~bringing with it the blooming of the Mayapples; dad would say “Too bad it’s a school day, we’re going mushroom hunting.” A little whining and promise to help with chores without complaining and he’d give in easily always knowing he was gonna take me anyways. Weekends would come~with a rush through the morning chores on our small farm; while mom prepared a picnic lunch to enjoy later at one of our favorite spots on state land where we would spend the morning trekking through woods hunting those elusive morels. In those days state land property was easily accessible with lanes allowing one to drive deep into the depths of the Waterloo woods; unlike today where those lanes have long past been closed off to vehicles. It is a common practice for true mushroomers' to keep their favorite spots to themselves only shared with the next generation of mushroomers' like this young Hellion Dietrich Mulzer with his father Lambert Mulzer. Although I swear my father and I never came anywhere near the size or quantity these mushroomers forged along with other forest edibles such as ramps also known as wild onions. Maybe my father was right every time we went out he would tell us kids “Shhhh, you have to be very quiet or you’ll scare them off.” The morel of the story is “there NO MORELS IN MICHIGAN!!!” They’re just a myth and urban legend.

May 9, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 10)

Personal Essays


Nature’s Bounty: Morel of the Story

~Conclusion~ I have seen it posted and stated on several occasions that this year’s morel bounty has been a year of epic proportion for the harvest. I believe fellow Hellions Nicole and Dietrich of the Mulzer family agree as they show off their unique finds~however; it is not just the morels they forge, along with fiddlehead ferns and wild ramps a succulent meal is prepared by friend Joanna Lloyd. With some romaine hearts, fiddlehead ferns, wild ramps with feta cheese and Greek vinaigrette along with a T-bone steak~sauteed onions and morel mushrooms “that's what life in HELL is all about” say’s one of my favorite Hellion Lambert Mulzer. I would have to agree although my family recipe was simplicity at its best: Ingredients: Morels Butter/Margarine (3-4 tbsp.) Flour (about ½ cup) Salt/Pepper to taste. Directions: Soak Mushrooms in bowl of water (couple tbsp. salt in water) this will help clean them. Melt butter/margarine in frying pan (be careful not to overheat the pan) Coat Morels in flour (you can use a Ziploc bag or gently roll them in flour) Sauté mushrooms in butter/margarine. Salt and pepper to taste. Fun~Guy Humor What do mushrooms eat when they sit around a campfire? “Spores” What did the one mushroom say to the mushroom who talked too much? “Put a cap on it” What did the mushroom having a bad day say? “When it rains it s'pore's” What room has no floor, no doors, no walls & no windows? “A mushroom” Did you like my fungus jokes? “They might take time to grow on ya” May 23, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 11)

Personal Essays


Helluva Friday the 13th

A full moon shined bright over Hell as Friday the 13th, festivities were held throughout not only Hell but surrounding communities as well. As tourist visit Hell on this superstitious day the novelty of Hell reigns supreme; especially for those who throw superstitious caution into the wind and exchange their matrimonial vows. Not only was it Friday the 13th it also marked Father’s day weekend and the 20th Anniversary of Stockbridge Day in the Village festivities; a long time family tradition for our family celebrating not only Father’s day but my birthday as well. For the past several years the Friday evening entertainment has been the sounds of Billy Mack & The Juke Joint Johnnies followed by a spectacular firework show. Back years ago shortly after being introduced to Hell as a teenager; I began frequenting the Dam Site Inn. Music and dancing has always been a huge part of my life, while many went to the bar to drink I went for the music. The twanging country line dancing was grabbing a foothold as I celebrated my 21st Birthday in Hell, with Strings & Things featuring Billy Mack. Most weekends I could be found on the dance floor and building what would become a long standing friendship with not only Billy but his fellow musicians as well. Hell once hosted the annual Buzzard Festival a family friendly event of which we were able to introduce our young children to the sights and sounds of Hell. Most common in the sounds reigned Billy Mack now hosting the Kickback band; often playing a show at the festival followed by a night at the bar. Although our family moved to Ohio for several years in the mid-nineties; our friendship remained connected. Almost a quarter century later that connection and friendship remains. Once Hell and Billy Mack went hand in hand to me, today I prefer the family friendly venues such as Day in the Village and Gregory 4th of July celebration with the Juke Joint Johnnies one helluva rockabilly band. June 20, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 13)

Personal Essays


Hell of a Storm~1914

It was a warm summer evening on Saturday; June 27, 1914 as the wives cleared away the remnants of supper, the children played while the men work their way through the evening chores. With a darkening ominous sky the wind begins to pick up; there was no emergency warning signaling in those days warning to take cover, just the continuous rumbling sound as if a train was nearby and barreling down upon you. With hurricane force winds sweeping up everything within a half mile it began creating a path of destruction as the tornado gained momentum hail the size of golf balls began to fall. Swooping down upon Washtenaw county on into southern Livingston county wreaking havoc on anything within its reach destroying everything in its path wiping out a couple dozen businesses, farms and homes devastating and leveling the entire town of Unadilla. The tempest continued east skirting the hamlet of Hell and Pinckney along the southern shore of Silver lake leaving all the cottages south of the lake in splinters. As the cyclone continued its course several more homes and farms we’re destroyed. Along with all the damages done two children and their mother we’re seriously injured; as reported it was feared the mother would not recover. As surrounding communities celebrated Independence Day that year the community of Unadilla began picking up the pieces from one helluva storm. July 4, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 14)

Personal Essays


Casket Grilled Corn on the Cob

Growing up in our close~knit community I never realized how much I appreciated living here not only Hell but my hometown of Stockbridge. It wasn’t until my family moved to Toledo for several years that I grew to appreciate the little things; like running to the store and seeing a friend or family member if not both. It was a big adjustment and one I could never get used to; often this feeling led to weekend trips home. If not a weekend home we’d often make a day trip to Hell if not for dinner and dancing; for a day at one of the lakes be it Silver, Halfmoon or my favorite Pickerel. Having lived elsewhere and my deeper appreciation of our small town spirit I have often wondered what other’s see when they drive through Hell or the surrounding communities. I don’t necessarily mean the tourist who seek out Hell, but those who just happen upon it be it as an indirect route, campers or one who’s simply lost. Stockbridge, Gregory and Pinckney all center around Michigan highways of which are traveled through daily from out of Towner’s who can see the pride displayed in our country charm. Throughout the years of my living in Hell I have received various reactions from people from “how cool is that” to judgmental comments from the spiritual point of view. I can only imagine the reaction and surprise a passerby has upon entering Hell. As the road slowly curves and descends into the hamlet of Hell the novelty is soon clear, this town is a unique find especially on weekends leading into fall. This year weekends have a new attraction gaining attention; where else but Hell can you get “casket grilled corn on the cob?” Yes, I said casket grilled corn on the cob~don’t take my word for it come on out and see for yourself on weekends through to Helloween. August 1, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 16)

Personal Essays


To Hell & Back For our Troops

Hell and how one see’s it is all about perception; there’s always “the good, bad & ugly” of Hell. But there’s is also family and patriotic fellowship; when you put it all together you have the 6th Annual Going to Hell and Back for the Troops. If one spends anytime chatting with ScreamS owner John Colone, you soon learn he is a vet himself. The Ride to Hell and Back for the Gold Star and Blue Star Families 2014 event brings riders and families from all around the state; not only in remembrance and honor of our troops and those fallen but also to raise funds for soldiers and their families all over Michigan. This past weekend marked that event with activities starting early and lasting throughout the day with guest speakers, kid games and bike games and music. This daylong event not only raised funds but also awareness for Michigan’s Gold Star and Blue Star Families; with blue representing Active Duty Service Members and the honorary Gold befitting Fallen Heroes; included in the daily events a memorial balloon launch with an attached name of a Michigan Fallen Hero. All day long the proud sounds of laughter and cheers of family fun and festivities could be heard ringing throughout Hell. August 15, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 17)

Personal Essays


Seriously Amazing Smithsonian in Hell

The better part of this past week I had the outline for this column piece in my mind~had even wrote my opening sentence “The taste of autumn is in the air; morning’s kissed by the foggy dew.” Then this morning I came across an article about a local piece of property just on the outskirts of Hell. An article that I feel is intriguing as well as being a historical piece. For decades and probably longer than most around Hell can remember there has been an area of land that is closed off to the outside community with a fence surrounding it’s perimeter of 1,297 acres located in between Kelly, Doyle, Graves roads and coming just short of M-36. For those who have noticed the signs posted around the property it can be seen that it is the U-M Edwin S. George Reserve- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. Throughout the years and my research in local history I have often came across bits and pieces of information on this property dating back to the early 1900’s and its donation to the University of Michigan of which established the reserve in 1930 honoring it’s donor by name. For over 85 years now many studies have been done in the area of Ecology and Biology. It is this past year and most recent study performed by 12 students that gained them and the reserve global notoriety and addition into the Smithsonian Institution's Forest Global Earth Observatory. With a research plot mapping 57 acres (43 football fields in size), 2 months and 45,000 tagged trees later these 12 students join an elite group amongst 60 international research plots spanning 24 countries; with all their data research was entered into inventory of the Smithsonian on August 12 of this year. The Smithsonian is an “Institution, an Establishment for the increase & diffusion of knowledge among men.” I have been in aww of Hell and its surrounding beautiful from the moment introduced to it. Now with its scenic treasure and hidden beauty deep within the canopies of the old oaks, hickories and red maples and 38 other species; it find prestige in the Seriously Amazing Smithsonian.

August 29, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 18)

Personal Essays


Hellfest 2014

A slight hint of autumn hues brush the landscape; with a chill in the air summer turns to fall, as the harvest moon shines bright over Hell. The fall solstice will soon arrive along with fall festivities befitting Hell. Saturday, September 20th marks the 13th Annual Hells Hearse Fest maybe being the 13th will bring forth luck in regaining the world record for longest parade of hearses in the Guinness Book of World Records. Hearse registration begins 10am at ScreamS with the Hearse parade to the Terrorfied Forrest beginning at 5pm; trophies in various categories will be given out as well. For a family friendly free day of fun an array of events are scheduled including a costume contest (costumes must be registered to win) and Pinebox Derby Race with day long entertainment provided by Creepy Clyde, The Gutter Ghouls along with various performers. Along with ScreamS Diner menu their casket grilled hot dogs & hamburgers will start at noon and don’t forget to get your Deadly Ground Coffee the official coffee of Hell~they say it’s to die for. You can’t have a horrific day in Hell without a zombie or two; hell maybe there will be a horde. One thing’s for sure Z-girl will be there collecting non-perishable food items for Gleaner’s Food Bank and fund raiser while spreading her charitable virus prompting an outbreak and Zombie Attack on Hell Saturday; October 25th for more info on any of these events check out gotohell.com, hearsefest.com, deadlygroundscoffee.com you can also find links on my Angelic View of Hell on facebook~Hope to see you in Hell. September 12, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 19)

Personal Essays


Centuries of Spirits

One common known fact about Hell is it walks hand in hand with spirits and/or alcohol; going as far back as the George Reeves settlement, erecting the dam along with the addition of a grist mill and mill pond now known as Hell creek and Hi-land Lake. Traditionally the first 10 or so bushels of grain harvested and milled would become moonshine. Hell grew in midst of the religious revivalism popular amongst woman that called for temperance; deeming alcohol ruinous too marriages and family values. With varying stories to the origin of Hellz name; the one I find most fascinating befitting the era of temperance is that of rider less horses and wagons without drivers returning home after delivering their harvest to the Reeves Mill and distillery prompting wife’s to throw hands in the air saying “He’s gone to Hell again.” As the distillery business grew over the next several decades Reeves began selling his spirits to nearby stores, taverns and saloons with regular delivery routes to Stockbridge, White Oak, Fowlerville, Webberville, Dansville and Williamston. Post-Civil war era Reeves enterprising ways caught the attention of the government bringing tax collectors to assess Reeve’s operations. It has then been said that Reeve’s and his customers would then hide the whiskey barrels by sinking them to the bottom of the millpond until the agents left the area the barrels were pulled back to the surface. Upon the turn of the century Reeves had long sense passed just prior to his death the grist mill was lost to fire closing the distillery and transferring ownership to his children upon his death at which time became a cattle ranch. In October 1919, the National Prohibition Act went in effect nationally, replacing taverns with speakeasies and the rise in gang violence. Although I could find no record at this time to verify the claim it has been said that Hell returned to the business of spirits be it illegal practices common to Detroit’s most notorious organized crime ring The Purple Gang said to have had ties within Hellz community of which they would use as their hideout or so it’s said. So when you think of Hell remember to speakeasy there are spirits aplenty. October 10, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 21)

Personal Essays


Poetic Inspiration

Personal Essays


Hellz Winter Beauty

Sunrise brings new beauty as it hosts a new day, be it snow covered flurries with shades of gray. Or’ sun ray’s dancin’ across the ice~cycle trees,

a landscape full of color for ones eye to see~ from the red of a cardinal to the blue of a jay.

With the picturesque meandering streams that now

cease to flow, to the ice covered lakes all covered in snow. The sun shimmerin’ off the snow covered forest that surround; deep into winter Hell can be found. The days have been bitter~

this year harsher than most~ night winds howlin’ like a’ winter ghost.

We curse the winter, we curse the wind, we curse the cold~ we curse the snow, we even curse that ol’ winter ghost.

Yet no matter what each day brings; in the morning birds will sing The beauty of Hell reigns deep within’ a snow shrouded portrait

markin’ January’s end. Soon comes the day a robin is seen~ and the days grow longer; that is when we know it is finally spring.

January 31, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 3)

Personal Essays


Spring Comes to Hell

As Hell springs forth with; a touch of warmth in the air.

Signs of Mother Nature Spring~ can be found surrounding one anywhere.

With the wakin’ sound of the;

cooin’ mourning doves call. Or the familiar sound of the,

sandhill crane not heard since fall.

The snow covered~frozen, landscape has begun to thaw. Which will soon give way to,

waterfowl amongst it all.

As the days grow longer; the veil of gray starts to fade.

But soon will come the floodin’, and through Hell I will wade.

March 14, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 6)

Personal Essays


Serene Sunday in Hell

Another serene Sunday morning in Hell~ for many a calm and peace can be found.

As Mother Nature shares her sermon~ her composed music can be heard all around.

A choir of birds sing their mornin’ hymns~

hidden amongst the portrait of green and blue. The mournin’ doves solo heard from a nearby limb~

as the sunshine kisses the early morning dew.

With coffee in hand the dock is my pew~ A soft breeze blowing bringing forth a lilac scent;

It is that moment a pair of swans slowly glide into view~ Another serene Sunday morning of peace come and went…

June 6, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 12)

Personal Essays


Hellz Summer Show

On Hellz Lil’ Acre most day’s is where I can be found; bountiful mulberries and raspberries seen all around.

A break in the hammock canopied by the leaves, Summers breath can be felt in its cooling breeze.

The sun dips low in the horizon casting its amber hue;

kissed by shades of orange, pink, purple and blue. In chorus the bull frogs and crickets begin to sing, Fireflies dance into the dusk that sunset brings.

Before darkness cloaks Hell for the night;

A full moon is rising in the evening twilight. Stars soon appear in their twinkling glow~

As heaven above Hell puts on a summer show.

July 18, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 15)

Personal Essays


Autumn Daze

The great blue heron in flight a majestic sight to see; with autumn fog dancin’ on a cool mornin’ breeze.

The goslings have grown~spending their day’s on the lake; as they will soon migrate south in a perfect V shape.

Upon the lake the colored leaves subtlety begin to shine;

reflectin’ the beauty announcing the end of summer time. The squirrels hustle their stash~ knowin’ winter is near; with sign’s to some that winter will be worse this year.

The garden bounties have all but gone;

only the cold weather harvest still lingering on. While apple, cinnamon and pumpkin spices fill the air;

as a reminder that the fall season is everywhere.

Contact info: [email protected] or Follow Angelic View of Hell @ Facebook, Google+ and Aol Lifestream for more photos, poetry and essays.

September 26, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 20)

Personal Essays


References: Page 8: Retrieved from History.com homepage. Christmas (2013). Page 11: Retrieved from gotohellmi.com homepage. Get Married in Hell and Locked in Love. (2013). Page 12: Retrieved from farmersalmanac.com/long-range-weather-forecast/ great-lakes. (2014). Page 13: DeSmet, Kate. The road to Hell is… a dam mess. The Detroit News. 27, March, 1982 Page 19: “Hurricane Does Great Damage.” The Pinckney Dispatch. Thursday, July 2, 1914 Vol. XXXII Page 22: Erickson, J. (2014, August 13). U-M forest preserve joins Smithsonian global network. Retrieved on August 26, 2014 from http://ns.umich.edu/ Page 22: Retrieved from Smithsonian homepage. About Us. (2014).

Date post:	19-Jul-2016
Category:	Documents
Upload:	angelnhell
View:	42 times
Download:	3 times

Angelic View of Hell (Volume 1)

Documents