Van Buren Street Historic District

a.k.a. See Also:Penn Central Railway Station

Roughly, Van Buren St. from Capital and Cherry Sts. to Calhoun St. and North Ave., Battle Creek, MI
Local significance of the district:
Community Planning And Development; Education; Social History; Transportation; Architecture; Art

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1996.
  A brief timeline of the history of the Republic of Texas
  • 1821: The Mexican War of Independence concludes, and Mexico gains independence from Spain. Texas is a part of the newly formed Republic of Mexico.
  • 1824: The Mexican government establishes the Constitution of 1824, which grants certain rights to the Mexican states, including Texas.
  • 1826: A group of American settlers, known as the Fredonian Rebellion, attempt to establish an independent state in Texas. The rebellion is short-lived and quickly suppressed by Mexican authorities.
  • 1830: The Mexican government, concerned about the growing number of American settlers in Texas, passes the Law of April 6, 1830, which imposes restrictions on further American immigration to Texas.
  • 1835: Tensions between American settlers and the Mexican government escalate, leading to the Texas Revolution. The Texian rebels, led by figures such as Stephen F. Austin and Sam Houston, engage in battles against Mexican forces.
  • 1836: On March 2, the Texian delegates at the Convention of 1836 declare independence from Mexico and establish the Republic of Texas. Sam Houston is elected as the first President of Texas. The Battle of the Alamo takes place in February-March, where a small Texian garrison defends the Alamo Mission against a large Mexican army. Despite their defeat, the battle becomes a symbol of Texian resistance.
  • 1836-1838: The Republic of Texas faces a series of military conflicts with Mexico, including the Goliad Massacre and the Battle of San Jacinto. The decisive Texian victory at San Jacinto secures their independence and captures Mexican General Santa Anna, who signs the Treaties of Velasco recognizing Texas as an independent nation.
  • 1836-1845: The Republic of Texas operates as an independent nation, establishing a constitution, government, and capital at various locations including Washington-on-the-Brazos, Harrisburg, and eventually, Houston. Efforts to join the United States face opposition due to fears of potential conflict with Mexico.
  • 1845: Texas agrees to annexation and becomes the 28th state of the United States on December 29, 1845, following approval by the U.S. Congress. This leads to the Mexican-American War in 1846.
Although the Republic of Texas was relatively short-lived, lasting from 1836 to 1845, it played a significant role in shaping the history of Texas and its eventual integration into the United States.

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 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.
Calhoun County, Michigan, located in the southwestern part of the state, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Potawatomi, Chippewa, and Ottawa. European settlers began arriving in the late 18th century, attracted by the fertile land and the potential for economic prosperity.

In 1829, Calhoun County was officially established, named after prominent American statesman, John C. Calhoun. The county seat was initially located in the town of Marshall, which quickly grew and became an important center of commerce, industry, and culture. Agriculture played a significant role in the county's early development, with farmers producing wheat, corn, and various other crops.

During the mid-19th century, Calhoun County witnessed a period of rapid growth and industrialization. The arrival of railroads in the 1850s brought enhanced transportation links, boosting trade and facilitating the development of manufacturing industries. Marshall, in particular, became known for its production of carriages and later automobiles. This period of prosperity was not without challenges, as the county experienced the impacts of the Civil War and the economic downturns that followed.

In the 20th century, Calhoun County continued to evolve, adapting to changing economic landscapes. The automotive industry took hold in the county, attracting major corporations such as General Motors and Kellogg Company, which established factories and brought job opportunities. Over the years, the county also focused on diversifying its economy, expanding into healthcare, education, and technology sectors.

Today, Calhoun County preserves its historical heritage while embracing modern advancements. It offers a blend of rural landscapes and urban centers, providing residents and visitors with a diverse array of recreational, cultural, and economic opportunities.

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

  • 1829 - Calhoun County is established by the Legislative Council of the Michigan Territory.
  • 1833 - Battle Creek is founded and becomes the county seat.
  • 1836 - The first courthouse is built in Battle Creek.
  • 1842 - The Michigan Central Railroad extends its line to Battle Creek, promoting growth and development in the county.
  • 1855 - The county's population reaches 15,000.
  • 1865 - The American Civil War ends, and Calhoun County experiences rapid industrialization and economic expansion.
  • 1873 - The county courthouse is destroyed by fire, leading to the construction of a new courthouse in 1874.
  • 1897 - The cereal company, Kellogg's, is founded in Battle Creek, becoming a major employer in the county.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression impacts Calhoun County, causing significant economic challenges.
  • 1950s - The county experiences suburbanization trends, with population growth in areas surrounding Battle Creek.
  • 1961 - The Battle Creek Sanitarium, founded by Dr. John Harvey Kellogg, closes its doors.
  • 1963 - The Battle Creek Air National Guard Base is established, bringing military presence and economic opportunities.
  • 1982 - The Kellogg Company's headquarters moves from Battle Creek to nearby Battle Creek Township.
  • 1990s - The county undergoes revitalization efforts, focusing on downtown Battle Creek and attracting new businesses.