Murphy, Frank, Birthplace
142 S. Huron St., Harbor Beach, MI Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1971.
- 1821: The Mexican War of Independence concludes, and Mexico gains independence from Spain. Texas is a part of the newly formed Republic of Mexico.
- 1824: The Mexican government establishes the Constitution of 1824, which grants certain rights to the Mexican states, including Texas.
- 1826: A group of American settlers, known as the Fredonian Rebellion, attempt to establish an independent state in Texas. The rebellion is short-lived and quickly suppressed by Mexican authorities.
- 1830: The Mexican government, concerned about the growing number of American settlers in Texas, passes the Law of April 6, 1830, which imposes restrictions on further American immigration to Texas.
- 1835: Tensions between American settlers and the Mexican government escalate, leading to the Texas Revolution. The Texian rebels, led by figures such as Stephen F. Austin and Sam Houston, engage in battles against Mexican forces.
- 1836: On March 2, the Texian delegates at the Convention of 1836 declare independence from Mexico and establish the Republic of Texas. Sam Houston is elected as the first President of Texas. The Battle of the Alamo takes place in February-March, where a small Texian garrison defends the Alamo Mission against a large Mexican army. Despite their defeat, the battle becomes a symbol of Texian resistance.
- 1836-1838: The Republic of Texas faces a series of military conflicts with Mexico, including the Goliad Massacre and the Battle of San Jacinto. The decisive Texian victory at San Jacinto secures their independence and captures Mexican General Santa Anna, who signs the Treaties of Velasco recognizing Texas as an independent nation.
- 1836-1845: The Republic of Texas operates as an independent nation, establishing a constitution, government, and capital at various locations including Washington-on-the-Brazos, Harrisburg, and eventually, Houston. Efforts to join the United States face opposition due to fears of potential conflict with Mexico.
- 1845: Texas agrees to annexation and becomes the 28th state of the United States on December 29, 1845, following approval by the U.S. Congress. This leads to the Mexican-American War in 1846.
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.
In 1858, Huron County was officially organized and named after Lake Huron, which forms its eastern boundary. The county's early economy was primarily focused on agriculture, with farmers cultivating a variety of crops, including wheat, corn, and potatoes. The construction of railroads in the late 19th century further facilitated economic growth and the transportation of goods.
The county's population grew steadily throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As more settlers arrived, small towns began to emerge, each with its own unique history. Ubly, for example, was founded in the 1880s and quickly became known for its successful cooperage industry. Bad Axe, the county seat, was established in 1883 and became a center for commerce and government.
In addition to its agricultural and industrial development, Huron County also played a role in the logging industry. Dense forests once covered the area, and logging companies operated sawmills to process the timber. However, by the early 20th century, the timber resources became depleted, and the county transitioned back to its agricultural roots. Today, Huron County is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the picturesque Lake Huron shoreline, and continues to be a vibrant agricultural community.
Huron County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Huron County, Michigan.
- 1835 - Huron County is established by the Michigan Legislature.
- 1840 - The first permanent settlement is established in what is now known as Port Austin.
- 1859 - The first lighthouse, Pointe aux Barques Lighthouse, is built on Lake Huron.
- 1865 - The first railroad, the Detroit & Bay City Railroad, is completed in Huron County.
- 1881 - The first county courthouse is built in Bad Axe.
- 1907 - The Caseville Harbor Beach Road race, the first international road race in the United States, takes place in Huron County.
- 1929 - The Great Depression begins, affecting Huron County and its agricultural industries.
- 1942 - During World War II, Huron County serves as a training ground for soldiers at Camp Hume.
- 1956 - The Port Austin State Harbor is established.
- 1976 - The Port Austin Wooden Boat Show, celebrating the county's maritime heritage, is first held.
- 1997 - The famous "singing sands" of Lake Huron in Huron County are officially designated as a natural phenomenon.
- 2010 - The county celebrates its 175th anniversary.