Historical Markers in
Cass County, Michigan

19th Michigan Infantry Memorial Big Tree Birch Lake Meeting House Captain Iven C. Kincheloe Memorial Cass County Courthouse Cass County Veterans Memorial Cassopolis Veterans Memorial Chain Lake Baptist Church and Cemetery Criffield-Whiteley House / Harry and Sara Ethel Whiteley District Schoolhouse Dowagiac Civil War Monument Dowagiac World War I Memorial Dowagiac World War II - Korean Conflict - Vietnam War Memorial First Methodist Episcopal Church Freedom Road Honor Roll of War Veterans of Marcellus and Vicinity Honor Roll War Veterans of Marcellus and Vicinity Howard Township Hall Indian Lake Cemetery Lewis Cass Methodist Episcopal Church / The Old Rugged Cross Newton House Pickett's Corner Poe's Corners Sacred Heart of Mary Catholic Church Schoolhouse Bell Smith's Chapel St. Paul's Church / Episcopal Church Sumnerville Mounds / Sumnerville Cemetery The Dowagiac River Watershed / Lunker Structures The Presbyterian Church The Underground Railroad The Underground Railway Willis M. Farr
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.
Michigan random facts
Cass County, Michigan, located in the southwestern part of the state, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Potawatomi, who were forced to cede their land to the United States through a series of treaties in the early 19th century. In 1829, Cass County was officially established and named after the prominent statesman and territorial governor, Lewis Cass.

During the mid-19th century, Cass County experienced significant growth and development. The construction of railroads improved transportation, making the area more accessible and attractive for settlers. Agriculture played a vital role in the county's economy, with crops like wheat and corn becoming major commodities. The logging industry also thrived, thanks to the abundance of forests in the region.

Cass County played a crucial role in the Underground Railroad during the era of slavery. Many abolitionists settled in the county, providing safe harbor for escaped slaves en route to Canada. The county's prominent anti-slavery stance led to conflicts and tensions between its residents and pro-slavery advocates from the neighboring states.

In the 20th century, Cass County continued to develop economically and culturally. The county became known for its vibrant art scene, with various art institutions and galleries attracting artists from around the country. Today, Cass County boasts a mix of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community, making it an appealing destination for residents and visitors alike.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Cass County, Michigan.

  • 1829: Cass County is established as a county in the Michigan Territory.
  • 1831: The village of Cassopolis is chosen as the county seat.
  • 1838: The county experiences rapid population growth due to the arrival of European settlers.
  • 1848: The Michigan Central Railroad is extended to Cass County, boosting the local economy.
  • 1861-1865: During the American Civil War, many young men from Cass County serve in the Union Army.
  • 1875: The Cass County Courthouse, a significant architectural landmark, is completed in Cassopolis.
  • 1920s: The county experiences a decline in population due to economic challenges and the effects of World War I.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression further impacts the county's economy, causing additional population decline.
  • 1960s: Interstate 94 is constructed, passing through Cass County and improving transportation infrastructure.
  • 1970s: Cass County starts to witness a gradual population increase and the development of suburban areas.
  • 1990s: The county experiences significant growth in agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism industries.
  • 2010: Cass County celebrates its bicentennial anniversary.