OWOSSO, Mich. — A Michigan native was recognized in Owosso on Monday as the scientist who discovered that DNA carries genetic code.
Alfred Day Hershey was born in Owosso.
He's a Nobel Prize winner and he discovered that DNA carries the genetic code of life.
Hershey was honored in a ceremony in Owosso at his birthplace at 515 E. Mason Street, where a Michigan Historical Marker was unveiled.
He was born on December 4, 1908, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in bacteriology, and a Ph.D in chemistry, from now, Michigan State University.
It was in 1952 when Hershey, along with a lab assistant, discovered and proved that DNA carries the genetic code of life.
That finding is credited as a "foundation for advances in over 100 branches of biology, medicine and anthropology," according to a press release on the event.
"Hershey was down to earth and he relied on the basics for success, and that's a lesson for all of us," said Shaffer Fox, Owosso historian.
The historical marker plan has been in the works since 2014.
The project was funded by a partnership between Owosso historian Shaffer Fox, State Representative Ben Frederick, and multimedia host and commentator, former professor, former state rep and state senator Bill Ballenger, as well as many others.
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