National Register Listings in
Kent County, Michigan

Ada Covered Bridge Aldrich Building Aldrich, Godfrey, and White Block Alten, Mathias., House and Studio American Box Board Company Headquarters and Factory American Seating Company Factory Complex Berkey and Gay Furniture Company Factory Blodgett, John W., Estate Business Route M-21-Plaster Creek Bridge Central Furniture Company-H.E. Shaw Furniture Company Factory Division Avenue-Plaster Creek Bridge Downtown Lowell Historic District Eastern Avenue School Fallasburg Covered Bridge Fallasburg Historic District Fine Arts Building First (Park) Congregational Church Ford, President Gerald R., Jr., Boyhood Home Goodspeed Brothers Building Graham House Grand Rapids Christian High School Grand Rapids Cycle Company Factory Grand Rapids Savings Bank Building Grand Rapids Storage and Van Company Building Heartside Historic District Heritage Hill Historic District Keeler Building Kent County Civil War Monument Ladies' Literary Club Ledyard Block Historic District Lexington School Loraine Building Medical Arts Building Metal Office Furniture Company (Steelcase) Plants No. 2 and 3 Michigan Trust Company Building Monroe Avenue Water Filtration Plant Mt. Mercy Academy and Convent Paddock, Augustus, House Peck Block Pike, Abram W., House Porter Hollow Embankment and Culvert Saint Joseph Seminary Sixth Street Bridge St. Cecilia Society Building Third Reformed Church Thornapple River Drive Bridge Turner House U.S. Post Office Villa Maria Whitney Tavern Stand Willard Building
The Kellogg's company, famous for its breakfast cereals, was founded in Battle Creek, Michigan, in 1906. The company's first product was Corn Flakes, which was invented by John Harvey Kellogg and his brother Will Keith Kellogg. The company went on to produce many other popular cereals, including Rice Krispies, Frosted Flakes, and Special K.
Michigan random facts
Kent County, Michigan has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Before European settlers arrived, the region was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Ottawa, Potawatomi, and Ojibwa. These tribes relied on the land for hunting, fishing, and farming.

European settlers began to arrive in the early 19th century, drawn by the fertile land and abundant natural resources. The county's name, Kent, was chosen in honor of Kent County, England. The new settlers established agricultural communities and began building mills and industries along the Grand River, which runs through the county.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Kent County experienced significant growth and development. The city of Grand Rapids became a major industrial center, attracting businesses such as furniture manufacturing, paper mills, and automotive production. This industrial boom led to population growth and prosperity, solidifying the county's reputation as an economic hub in Michigan.

Kent County has also been known for its commitment to education and culture. It is home to several acclaimed colleges and universities, including Calvin University and Grand Valley State University. The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum, located in downtown Grand Rapids, pays tribute to the county's most famous resident, the 38th President of the United States, Gerald R. Ford.

Today, Kent County continues to thrive as a vibrant and diverse community. It boasts a diverse economy, with a mix of industries including manufacturing, healthcare, and technology. The county is known for its natural beauty, offering residents and visitors a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities. With its rich history and promising future, Kent County remains an integral part of Michigan's landscape.

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

  • 1831: Kent County is organized and established.
  • 1846: The village of Grand Rapids is incorporated.
  • 1848: The first courthouse is constructed in Grand Rapids.
  • 1850: The construction of the Grand River Valley Railroad begins.
  • 1855: The village of Kent is incorporated.
  • 1868: The village of Grand Rapids becomes a city.
  • 1871: The Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad is completed.
  • 1900: Kent County's population reaches over 100,000.
  • 1956: The construction of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport begins.
  • 1991: John Ball Zoological Garden is renamed John Ball Zoological Park.
  • 2010: Kent County's population exceeds 600,000.