Port Huron, situated at the southern end of Lake Huron, derives its name from its strategic location as a crucial port on the Great Lakes.

Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Ojibwa, the area was explored by French fur traders in the 17th century.

Fort Gratiot, established in 1814, played a significant role in the War of 1812, defending the strategic waterway connecting Lake Huron to the St. Clair River.

The city served as a crucial transportation hub during the lumber boom of the late 19th century, facilitating the movement of timber from Michigan's forests to national markets.

Thomas Edison spent his childhood in Port Huron, and his early experiments, including one with telegraphy, were conducted in the area, contributing to his eventual inventions.

Port Huron is the easternmost point in Michigan, marking its border with Canada via the Blue Water Bridge, which connects it to Sarnia, Ontario.

The Blue Water Bridge, completed in 1938 and expanded with a second span in 1997, is a vital international crossing point for trade and tourism between the United States and Canada.

Port Huron's demographics reflect a predominantly white population, with smaller African American, Hispanic, and Asian communities contributing to its diversity.

The economy of Port Huron has diversified from its lumbering and manufacturing past to include healthcare, retail, tourism, and logistics due to its strategic location.

The city's population has experienced fluctuations over the years, with periods of growth and decline reflecting changes in manufacturing and economic opportunities in the region.

The Port Huron to Mackinac Boat Race, an annual sailing race that starts in Port Huron and ends at Mackinac Island, is one of the longest freshwater races in the world.

The Fort Gratiot Light, Michigan's oldest operating lighthouse, stands as a prominent landmark and a testament to the city's maritime history.

The Huron Lightship Museum, docked on the Black River, offers a glimpse into the life of sailors who navigated the Great Lakes before modern navigation technology.

While not a UNESCO site, the Great Lakes region, including the area around Port Huron, is recognized for its ecological significance and efforts toward conservation.

Port Huron has a council-manager government, with a city manager appointed by the elected city council, overseeing the day-to-day operations of the municipality.