National Register Listings in
Calhoun County, Michigan

12 Mile road-Kalamazoo River Bridge 23 Mile Road-Kalamazoo River Bridge Advent Historic District Arnold, Adam C., Block Battle Creek City Hall Battle Creek Post Office Battle Creek Sanitarium Battle Creek Sanitarium (Boundary Increase) Boys' Club Building Brooks, Harold C., House Brooks, Harold C., House (Boundary Increase) Bryant, James and Anne Atmore, Farmstead Camp Custer Veterans Administration Hospital-United States Veterans Hospital No. 100 Capitol Hill School Central National Tower City Hall Historic District Cortright-Van Patten Mill Emporium Gardner House Governor's Mansion Homer Village Historic District Honolulu House Joy House Kellogg, W.K., House Lockwood, Isaac, House Maple Street Historic District Marshall Avenue Bridge Marshall Michigan Historic Landmark District Masonic Temple Building Merritt Woods Historic District Milk Producers Company Barn National House Oakhill Old-Merchants National Bank and Trust Co. Building Penn Central Railway Station Penniman Castle Pine Creek Potawatomi Reservation Prindle, William, Livery Stable Record Printing and Box Company Building Robertson, Eugene P., House Stonehall Stow-Hasbrouck House Superior Street Commercial Historic District Van Buren Street Historic District Wagner's Block Ward, Frank and Dorothy, House Wright-Brooks House
Michigan was the birthplace of the American automobile industry. In the early 20th century, automakers such as Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler established headquarters and factories in Michigan, leading to a boom in the state's economy and population. Detroit became known as the "Motor City" and a symbol of American industrial power.
Michigan random facts
Calhoun County, Michigan, located in the southwestern part of the state, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Potawatomi, Chippewa, and Ottawa. European settlers began arriving in the late 18th century, attracted by the fertile land and the potential for economic prosperity.

In 1829, Calhoun County was officially established, named after prominent American statesman, John C. Calhoun. The county seat was initially located in the town of Marshall, which quickly grew and became an important center of commerce, industry, and culture. Agriculture played a significant role in the county's early development, with farmers producing wheat, corn, and various other crops.

During the mid-19th century, Calhoun County witnessed a period of rapid growth and industrialization. The arrival of railroads in the 1850s brought enhanced transportation links, boosting trade and facilitating the development of manufacturing industries. Marshall, in particular, became known for its production of carriages and later automobiles. This period of prosperity was not without challenges, as the county experienced the impacts of the Civil War and the economic downturns that followed.

In the 20th century, Calhoun County continued to evolve, adapting to changing economic landscapes. The automotive industry took hold in the county, attracting major corporations such as General Motors and Kellogg Company, which established factories and brought job opportunities. Over the years, the county also focused on diversifying its economy, expanding into healthcare, education, and technology sectors.

Today, Calhoun County preserves its historical heritage while embracing modern advancements. It offers a blend of rural landscapes and urban centers, providing residents and visitors with a diverse array of recreational, cultural, and economic opportunities.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Calhoun County, Michigan.

  • 1829 - Calhoun County is established by the Legislative Council of the Michigan Territory.
  • 1833 - Battle Creek is founded and becomes the county seat.
  • 1836 - The first courthouse is built in Battle Creek.
  • 1842 - The Michigan Central Railroad extends its line to Battle Creek, promoting growth and development in the county.
  • 1855 - The county's population reaches 15,000.
  • 1865 - The American Civil War ends, and Calhoun County experiences rapid industrialization and economic expansion.
  • 1873 - The county courthouse is destroyed by fire, leading to the construction of a new courthouse in 1874.
  • 1897 - The cereal company, Kellogg's, is founded in Battle Creek, becoming a major employer in the county.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression impacts Calhoun County, causing significant economic challenges.
  • 1950s - The county experiences suburbanization trends, with population growth in areas surrounding Battle Creek.
  • 1961 - The Battle Creek Sanitarium, founded by Dr. John Harvey Kellogg, closes its doors.
  • 1963 - The Battle Creek Air National Guard Base is established, bringing military presence and economic opportunities.
  • 1982 - The Kellogg Company's headquarters moves from Battle Creek to nearby Battle Creek Township.
  • 1990s - The county undergoes revitalization efforts, focusing on downtown Battle Creek and attracting new businesses.