Ford Motor Company Brooklyn Plant
a.k.a. Jackson Tool
221 Mill St., Brooklyn, MI Local significance of the district:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2017.
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.
The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is home to the only national park in the state, Isle Royale National Park. The park is a remote wilderness area consisting of a large island in Lake Superior and over 400 smaller islands, and is known for its scenic beauty, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife, including moose, wolves, and bald eagles.
The county's early growth was driven by its strategic location along the Michigan Central Railroad, which connected Detroit to Chicago. This transportation route facilitated the rapid development of industry and commerce in the area. Jackson became a major hub for the timber and manufacturing industries, attracting a diverse range of settlers from different ethnic backgrounds. The city of Jackson played a significant role in the Underground Railroad, as it became a sanctuary for fugitive slaves seeking freedom.
During the mid-20th century, Jackson County experienced a decline in its industrial sector, leading to economic challenges. However, efforts were made to diversify the local economy by attracting new businesses and industries. Today, the county is home to several manufacturing companies, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions, including the renowned Jackson College.
Jackson County is also known for its diverse cultural and recreational offerings. The Falling Waters Trail, a former railroad bed converted into a recreational trail, attracts outdoor enthusiasts and offers a scenic path through the county. The county is also home to numerous parks, historic sites, and cultural events, showcasing its vibrant community spirit.
Overall, Jackson County's history is marked by its early growth as an industrial hub, its role in the abolitionist movement, and its ongoing efforts to adapt to changing economic conditions. Today, the county continues to thrive as a vibrant community that combines history, culture, and natural beauty.
Jackson County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Jackson County, Michigan.
- 1829 - Jackson County is established by an Act of the Michigan Legislature.
- 1830 - The first permanent settler, William March, arrives in what is now Jackson County.
- 1832 - The Black Hawk War breaks out, and the county becomes a training ground for troops.
- 1833 - Jackson becomes the county seat, and the first courthouse is built.
- 1837 - The Michigan Central Railroad is completed, connecting Jackson with Detroit.
- 1850 - The population of Jackson County reaches over 10,000 people.
- 1861 - The American Civil War begins, and many residents of Jackson County enlist in the Union Army.
- 1870 - The population of Jackson County exceeds 30,000 people.
- 1902 - The Michigan State Prison opens in Jackson, becoming the largest walled prison in the world.
- 1928 - The Jackson County Airport is established.
- 1957 - Consumers Power Company opens the world's first full-scale nuclear power plant in Jackson County.
- 1981 - The county experiences significant economic growth with the opening of several automotive plants.
- 2019 - Today, Jackson County is a thriving community with a diverse economy and a population of over 160,000 people.