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 others 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 nHell 2013~

Personal Essays


Table of Contents

Essays: Page
Welcome To Hell An Angelic View 5
The Great Blue Heron 6
Coyotes Night Call 7
Giving Thanks 8
Happy Holidays from Hell 9
Happy New Year from Hell 10
Hell Freezes Over 11
Valentines 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 havent 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 ones perception, desire,
and time of year amongst numerous and various reasons throughout Hellz History.

For many it is simply the novelty of the towns 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 nHell. 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 Harleys 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


Coyotes 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 mornings 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 Harleys 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 friends 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
holidays 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 Minnies (his mom) and often on to his Aunt Roses.

This year for the first time we were joined by Cousin Randy claiming Dude, this stuffing is
killer! Throughout the years I have transformed my mothers 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 years 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 years 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 werent as fortunate and
thankfully as of yet no seriousness has come from their antics. Fridays 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 shantys. 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 Holidays 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 childs delight. We capture it all and in an instant; shared
around the world just as fast as Santas 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 Christmass 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 Reeves 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 Reeves 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 1840s.

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 Irvings 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 holidays, but one fact remains
Christmas would not become a federal holiday for three more decades in 1870 and by the end of
the 1800s 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 were 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 communitys 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 dont have those good ol cast iron skillets or Dutch ovens to cook with; often
handed down from our moms and grandmas. 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 its 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 Its 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


Valentines Locked in Love

Its not often one thinks of love or Valentines 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
Valentines 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 didnt 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 its 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 its not hard for me to think of Hell and feel the
love and history that surrounds me. Hell resonates deep within my soelz and Im destined to
remain here, theres no place Id 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 Farmers 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 Farmers 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 favorites 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 days 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 its 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.
Its 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 1800s and after decades of being deemed dangerous in 1947.

The dam spent years amongst legalities with todays current dam designed in the early 70s
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 its 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 wed visit my mothers best friend from childhood. I spent years listening to my
mothers stories of her time spent in Hell in the 50s; 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 antics 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 mothers
friends family property; the family long since gone. Barely a day goes by that I dont 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 essays 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, Bollingers 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 ones perception of Hell and its rich history. History that
pre-dates statehood as well as overlaps in areas outside of Hellz boundaries throughout
neighboring communities. Im 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 80s 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. Im sure this discovery will
lead me to the historical section of the library here soon. Some not as familiar with Hell suggest
someones 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 its a school day, were going mushroom
hunting. A little whining and promise to help with chores without complaining and hed 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 youll scare them off. The morel of the story is there
NO MORELS IN MICHIGAN!!! Theyre just a myth and urban legend.

May 9, 2014 (Vol. 3 Issue 10)
Personal Essays


Natures Bounty: Morel of the Story
~Conclusion~

I have seen it posted and stated on several occasions that this years 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 says 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 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)
Saut 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
Fathers day weekend and the 20th Anniversary of Stockbridge Day in the Village festivities; a
long time family tradition for our family celebrating not only Fathers 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 were destroyed. Along with all the
damages done two children and their mother were 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 wasnt 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 wed 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 others see when they drive through Hell or the surrounding communities. I
dont necessarily mean the tourist who seek out Hell, but those who just happen upon it be it as
an indirect route, campers or one whos simply lost. Stockbridge, Gregory and Pinckney all
center around Michigan highways of which are traveled through daily from out of Towners
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~dont 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 sees it is all about perception; theres always the good, bad & ugly of
Hell. But theres 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 Michigans 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.

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; mornings 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 its 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 1900s and its donation to the
University of Michigan of which established the reserve in 1930 honoring its 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.

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 dont forget to get your Deadly Ground Coffee the official coffee of Hell~they say its to die
for.

You cant have a horrific day in Hell without a zombie or two; hell maybe there will be a
horde. One things for sure Z-girl will be there collecting non-perishable food items for
Gleaners 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 wifes to throw hands in the air saying Hes 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 Reeves operations. It
has then been said that Reeves 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 Detroits 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 its 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 rays 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 Januarys 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 days 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 days 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 signs 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: angelicviewofhell@gmail.com 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).

Angelic View of Hell (Volume 1)

Cargado por

Información del documento

Derechos de autor

Formatos disponibles

Compartir este documento

Compartir o incrustar documentos

Opciones para compartir

¿Le pareció útil este documento?

¿Este contenido es inapropiado?

Copyright:

Formatos disponibles

Angelic View of Hell (Volume 1)

Cargado por

Copyright:

Formatos disponibles

Personal Essays

Stockbridge Area Newsletter Page 1

También podría gustarte