Marshall Avenue Bridge
Marshall Ave. over Rice Cr., Marshall, MI Local significance of the structure: Engineering
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2001.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
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The first European settlement in Michigan was founded by French explorer Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac in 1701. He established the settlement of Fort Pontchartrain du Détroit (later known as Detroit), which became an important trading post and military stronghold for the French and later the British.
About Calhoun County
Calhoun County Timeline
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.
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.
Calhoun County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped 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.