National Register Listing

Watrous General Store

a.k.a. Old Juniata Township Hall

4607 W. Caro Rd., Watrousville, MI
Local significance of the building:
Commerce

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1974.

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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Michigan random facts
Tuscola County, located in the state of Michigan, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1840. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Chippewa and Ottawa, who relied on the land's abundant natural resources for sustenance and trade.

The arrival of European settlers in the mid-1800s led to the rapid growth and development of Tuscola County. In 1850, the county was officially organized and named after the Tuscola River, which runs through the region. The construction of railroads in the late 1800s further facilitated economic growth, with the county becoming a vital transportation hub for timber and agricultural products.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Tuscola County experienced a boom in agriculture. The fertile land in the region allowed farmers to cultivate various crops, including wheat, corn, and beans. The agricultural industry became the backbone of the local economy, and the county flourished as more farmers settled in the area.

In addition to agriculture, Tuscola County also played a significant role in the automotive industry. The county was home to several automobile manufacturers, including Buick Motor Company, which was founded by David Dunbar Buick in Flint and later expanded to Saginaw. The growth of the automotive industry brought job opportunities and economic prosperity to Tuscola County.

Today, Tuscola County continues to maintain its agricultural heritage while embracing diverse industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. The county's beautiful natural landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant communities attract both residents and visitors, contributing to its ongoing growth and development.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Tuscola County, Michigan.

  • 1831 - Tuscola County is established as a separate county in the Michigan Territory.
  • 1832 - The first permanent European settlers arrive in the area.
  • 1848 - The county seat is established in the village of Tuscola.
  • 1857 - The village of Caro is established and becomes a major center of commerce in the region.
  • 1864 - The Michigan Air Line Railroad is completed, connecting Caro to the rest of the state.
  • 1872 - The Detroit and Bay City Railroad is completed, boosting economic growth in the county.
  • 1887 - The Tuscola County Courthouse is built in Caro.
  • 1895 - The Tuscola and Saginaw Bay Railway opens, further improving transportation in the area.
  • 1925 - The Sebewaing River is dredged, facilitating shipping and trade.
  • 1945 - The Vassar State Game Area is established, preserving natural habitats in the county.
  • 1989 - The Detroit and Mackinac Railway ceases operations in Tuscola County.
  • 2007 - A wind farm is established in the county, harnessing renewable energy sources.