National Register Listing

Kirby, William R., Sr., House

a.k.a. Kirby-Keefer House

377 State Rd., Hillsdale, MI
Local significance of the building:
Exploration/settlement; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1982.

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.

exploration settlementT architecture Exploration and expeditions Spanish immigrants immigration
Audiobooks about the history of Michigan.
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
Hillsdale County, MI is located in southern Michigan and has a rich and diverse history. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Potawatomi and Ottawa people. European settlers began moving into the area in the early 19th century, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for farming.

In 1829, the county was officially established and named after the hills that dominate the landscape. The early years of Hillsdale County were marked by rapid growth and development, with the establishment of the county seat in the town of Hillsdale in 1839. The arrival of the railroad in the 1850s further spurred economic growth, fostering trade and attracting new industries to the region.

During the Civil War, Hillsdale County played an important role, with many of its residents enlisting in the Union Army. The county also saw significant political activity during this time, as it became a hotbed of abolitionist sentiment. The Hillsdale County Anti-Slavery Society was established in 1840, and the local college, Hillsdale College, became a center for anti-slavery activities.

In the 20th century, Hillsdale County continued to thrive economically, with the automobile industry playing a significant role in its growth. The area also became known for its vibrant agricultural community, with dairy farming and crop production becoming major industries. Today, Hillsdale County remains a quaint and close-knit community, with a strong agricultural heritage and a dedication to preservation of its historic buildings and landmarks.

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

  • 1829: Hillsdale County is established on October 29.
  • 1834: The first courthouse is constructed in Hillsdale.
  • 1835: The Michigan Southern Railroad reaches Hillsdale.
  • 1844: Hillsdale College is founded.
  • 1867: The Michigan State Normal School (now Hillsdale College) is established.
  • 1882: The Hillsdale Daily News is first published.
  • 1950: The Hillsdale County Fair begins.
  • 1967: Hillsdale Community Health Center opens.
  • 1974: The railroad tracks through Hillsdale are removed.
  • 1981: The Hillsdale County Historical Society is formed.
  • 2009: A new hospital, Hillsdale Hospital, is built in Hillsdale.