St. Mary's Church Complex Historic District
Elm Ave. and MI 125, Monroe, MI Local significance of the district: Exploration/settlement; Architecture; Religion
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
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 University of Michigan, located in Ann Arbor, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the United States. It was founded in 1817, 20 years before Michigan became a state, and its alumni include President Gerald Ford, Google co-founder Larry Page, and actor James Earl Jones.
About Monroe County
Monroe County Timeline
Monroe County, Michigan has a rich and diverse history that dates back centuries. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Ottawa and Potawatomi, who relied on the abundant natural resources of the area for their livelihoods. However, in the late 18th century, European settlers began to arrive, led by French fur traders who established trading posts along the River Raisin.
The area experienced significant growth and development in the early 19th century, as Monroe County was officially established in 1817. It soon became a key transportation hub, with the construction of the Erie Canal and later the railroads. This strategic location attracted businesses and industries, turning Monroe County into a thriving economic center. Agriculture, manufacturing, and shipping played crucial roles in the region's growth, making it one of the most prosperous counties in Michigan.
Monroe County also played an important role during the War of 1812. The Battle of Frenchtown, also known as the Battle of the River Raisin, took place in January 1813, resulting in a devastating defeat for American forces. The battle is remembered as one of the bloodiest battles of the war, and its aftermath saw atrocities committed by retreating British forces against American prisoners. This event served as a catalyst for future military operations and ultimately led to the future development of the area.
In more recent history, Monroe County has been a leader in education and conservation efforts. The establishment of Monroe County Community College in 1964 provided accessible higher education opportunities for residents. Meanwhile, the county has made efforts toward environmental preservation, including the creation of Refuge Gateway and the River Raisin National Battlefield Park. These initiatives continue to shape the county's development while honoring its vibrant history.
The area experienced significant growth and development in the early 19th century, as Monroe County was officially established in 1817. It soon became a key transportation hub, with the construction of the Erie Canal and later the railroads. This strategic location attracted businesses and industries, turning Monroe County into a thriving economic center. Agriculture, manufacturing, and shipping played crucial roles in the region's growth, making it one of the most prosperous counties in Michigan.
Monroe County also played an important role during the War of 1812. The Battle of Frenchtown, also known as the Battle of the River Raisin, took place in January 1813, resulting in a devastating defeat for American forces. The battle is remembered as one of the bloodiest battles of the war, and its aftermath saw atrocities committed by retreating British forces against American prisoners. This event served as a catalyst for future military operations and ultimately led to the future development of the area.
In more recent history, Monroe County has been a leader in education and conservation efforts. The establishment of Monroe County Community College in 1964 provided accessible higher education opportunities for residents. Meanwhile, the county has made efforts toward environmental preservation, including the creation of Refuge Gateway and the River Raisin National Battlefield Park. These initiatives continue to shape the county's development while honoring its vibrant history.
Monroe County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Monroe County, Michigan.
- 1817: Monroe County is established as a county in the Michigan Territory.
- 1830: The Erie Canal is completed, connecting Monroe County to the eastern seaboard and facilitating economic growth.
- 1831: The city of Monroe, the county seat, is incorporated.
- 1837: Michigan becomes a state, with Monroe County playing a key role in its formation.
- 1845: The Great Lakes and the Mississippi River are connected with the opening of the Illinois and Michigan Canal, benefiting Monroe County's shipping industry.
- 1861-1865: Monroe County residents actively participate in the Civil War, with many joining the Union Army.
- 1870: The Toledo, Ann Arbor, and Northern Michigan Railway is completed, improving transportation and spurring industrial development.
- 1892: The iconic Monroe County Courthouse, designed by architects Elijah E. Myers and Claire Allen, is completed.
- 1904: The Ford Motor Company is founded by Henry Ford in nearby Detroit, leading to economic growth and job opportunities for Monroe County residents.
- 1959: Monroe County Community College is established, providing higher education opportunities for local residents.
- 1974: The Monroe Power Plant, one of the largest coal-fired power plants in the United States, begins operations.
- 1984: The River Raisin National Battlefield Park is established to commemorate the Battles of the River Raisin, which took place during the War of 1812.