National Register Listing

Criffield-Whiteley House

601 Main St., Dowagiac, MI
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Conservation; Politics/government

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2016.

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.

architecture conservation politics government houses residential buildings
The Detroit Lions football team was one of the original teams in the National Football League (NFL) when it was founded in 1920. The Lions have played their home games at Ford Field in Detroit since 2002.
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 concise overview of the key events in the history 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.