John Isaac Cutler House
Historical marker location:
283 68th St SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan
( Marker is on 68th Street Southeast, 0.2 miles west of Madison Avenue Southeast, on the right when traveling west.)
Marker installed: 1989
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The first European settlement in Michigan was founded by French explorer Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac in 1701. He established the settlement of Fort Pontchartrain du Détroit (later known as Detroit), which became an important trading post and military stronghold for the French and later the British.
About Kent County
Kent County Timeline
Kent County, Michigan has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Before European settlers arrived, the region was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Ottawa, Potawatomi, and Ojibwa. These tribes relied on the land for hunting, fishing, and farming.
European settlers began to arrive in the early 19th century, drawn by the fertile land and abundant natural resources. The county's name, Kent, was chosen in honor of Kent County, England. The new settlers established agricultural communities and began building mills and industries along the Grand River, which runs through the county.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Kent County experienced significant growth and development. The city of Grand Rapids became a major industrial center, attracting businesses such as furniture manufacturing, paper mills, and automotive production. This industrial boom led to population growth and prosperity, solidifying the county's reputation as an economic hub in Michigan.
Kent County has also been known for its commitment to education and culture. It is home to several acclaimed colleges and universities, including Calvin University and Grand Valley State University. The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum, located in downtown Grand Rapids, pays tribute to the county's most famous resident, the 38th President of the United States, Gerald R. Ford.
Today, Kent County continues to thrive as a vibrant and diverse community. It boasts a diverse economy, with a mix of industries including manufacturing, healthcare, and technology. The county is known for its natural beauty, offering residents and visitors a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities. With its rich history and promising future, Kent County remains an integral part of Michigan's landscape.
European settlers began to arrive in the early 19th century, drawn by the fertile land and abundant natural resources. The county's name, Kent, was chosen in honor of Kent County, England. The new settlers established agricultural communities and began building mills and industries along the Grand River, which runs through the county.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Kent County experienced significant growth and development. The city of Grand Rapids became a major industrial center, attracting businesses such as furniture manufacturing, paper mills, and automotive production. This industrial boom led to population growth and prosperity, solidifying the county's reputation as an economic hub in Michigan.
Kent County has also been known for its commitment to education and culture. It is home to several acclaimed colleges and universities, including Calvin University and Grand Valley State University. The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum, located in downtown Grand Rapids, pays tribute to the county's most famous resident, the 38th President of the United States, Gerald R. Ford.
Today, Kent County continues to thrive as a vibrant and diverse community. It boasts a diverse economy, with a mix of industries including manufacturing, healthcare, and technology. The county is known for its natural beauty, offering residents and visitors a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities. With its rich history and promising future, Kent County remains an integral part of Michigan's landscape.
Kent County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Kent County, Michigan.
- 1831: Kent County is organized and established.
- 1846: The village of Grand Rapids is incorporated.
- 1848: The first courthouse is constructed in Grand Rapids.
- 1850: The construction of the Grand River Valley Railroad begins.
- 1855: The village of Kent is incorporated.
- 1868: The village of Grand Rapids becomes a city.
- 1871: The Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad is completed.
- 1900: Kent County's population reaches over 100,000.
- 1956: The construction of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport begins.
- 1991: John Ball Zoological Garden is renamed John Ball Zoological Park.
- 2010: Kent County's population exceeds 600,000.