National Register Listing

Kramer, Frank A. and Rae E. Harris, House

221 N. Center Ave., Gaylord, MI
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Commerce

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2002.

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 commerce ranching
Michigan is the only state to have two designated "state stones": the Petoskey Stone, which is the state stone of Michigan, and the Isle Royale Greenstone, which is the state gemstone of Michigan. The Petoskey Stone is a fossilized coral that is found primarily in the northern Lower Peninsula, while the Isle Royale Greenstone is a rare mineral found only on Isle Royale in Lake Superior.
Michigan random facts
Otsego County, located in the state of Michigan, has a rich history that stretches back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Ottawa, Chippewa, and Potawatomi. In the early 19th century, European settlers began to move into the region. Otsego County was officially established in 1840, named after the Otsego Lake located within its borders.

One notable event in the county's history occurred in the late 1800s when the Michigan Central Railway was built through Otsego County, connecting it to major cities and facilitating trade and transportation. The railway encouraged economic growth, leading to an increase in population and the development of industries like logging and mining.

During the early 20th century, Otsego County experienced growth in agriculture, particularly in dairy farming. The county's fertile land and favorable climate made it an ideal location for farmers to establish successful dairy operations. This agricultural boom contributed to the prosperity of the region and provided an important source of income for many residents.

In recent decades, Otsego County has evolved into a popular tourist destination. Its natural beauty, including forests, lakes, and rolling hills, attracts outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The county is also home to the city of Gaylord, which has become a hub for tourism, offering attractions such as golf courses, resorts, and ski resorts.

Overall, Otsego County's history is characterized by its early Native American presence, the influence of European settlers and the impact of industries such as logging, mining, and dairy farming. Today, the county continues to thrive as a tourist destination, showcasing its natural beauty and providing recreational opportunities for visitors and residents alike.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Otsego County, Michigan.

  • 1840 - Otsego County is established by the Michigan Legislature.
  • 1851 - The first sawmill is built on the Au Sable River.
  • 1870 - The Michigan Central Railroad reaches Gaylord, bringing increased transportation and trade opportunities.
  • 1875 - The county courthouse is completed.
  • 1881 - The first newspaper, the Otsego County Herald, is published.
  • 1901 - The county's first telephone service is established.
  • 1934 - The Otsego County Club is established, later becoming the Otsego Club & Resort.
  • 1950 - Otsego Lake State Park is officially opened to the public.
  • 2001 - Otsego County celebrates its 160th anniversary.
  • 2019 - The population of Otsego County reaches approximately 25,000 people.