Old Sam

Historical marker location:

Coldwater, Michigan

( Marker can be reached from the intersection of East Chicago Street (U.S. 12) and Marshall Street (Old U.S. 27), on the left when traveling east.)

Born April 4, 1849 Died November 8, 1876.

Michigan was the birthplace of the American automobile industry. In the early 20th century, automakers such as Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler established headquarters and factories in Michigan, leading to a boom in the state's economy and population. Detroit became known as the "Motor City" and a symbol of American industrial power.