National Register Listings in
Macomb County, Michigan

Clinton Grove Cemetery Clinton-Kalamazoo Canal Erin-Warren Fractional District No. 2 Schoolhouse First Congregational Church Ford, Edsel and Eleanor, House (Gaukler Pointe) General Motors Technical Center General Motors Technical Center Grand Trunk Western Railroad, Mount Clemens Station Kolping Park and Chapel Packard Proving Grounds Gateway Complex Romeo Historic District Upton, William, House Warren Township District No. 4 School Washington Octagon House Wolcott Mill
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Michigan's Historic Railroad Stations (Painted Turtle Press) Hardcover – October 1, 2012
Michigan's Historic Railroad Stations (Painted Turtle)

There is a road from the eye to the heart that does not go through the intellect. Michigan is the road.
James Thurber in James Thurber: Writings & Drawings
Macomb County, located in southeastern Michigan, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Ojibwe, Ottawa, and Potawatomi. French fur traders arrived in the 17th century and established trading posts along the Detroit River, initiating the European presence in the region.

During the 1800s, Macomb County experienced significant growth due to its strategic position near the Great Lakes and the development of transportation infrastructure. The county was officially established in 1818 and named after Alexander Macomb, a prominent military leader during the War of 1812. In the mid-19th century, the construction of canals and railroads further stimulated economic growth, attracting settlers from across the country.

The region played a pivotal role in the automotive industry's early development, with the founding of the Dodge Brothers Company in 1900 by Horace and John Dodge. As the automobile industry flourished in the early 20th century, numerous other automotive companies established their presence in Macomb County, leading to a surge in population and economic prosperity. In particular, the city of Warren became an important industrial hub.

In recent decades, Macomb County has experienced significant urbanization and suburban growth. Many manufacturing plants have transitioned into more diversified industries, such as technology and healthcare. The county also continues to be an essential political battleground in Michigan and the United States, as it has often reflected national voting trends in elections. Today, Macomb County remains a thriving community with a diverse population and a mix of urban, suburban, and rural areas.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Macomb County, Michigan.

  • 1701: French explorer Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac establishes Fort Pontchartrain du Détroit, which includes areas of present-day Macomb County.
  • 1762: Treaty of Fontainebleau transfers the land to British control after France cedes it at the end of the French and Indian War.
  • 1783: The Treaty of Paris ends the American Revolution, and the land comes under American control as part of the Northwest Territory.
  • 1796: Wayne County is created, encompassing present-day Macomb County.
  • 1818: Macomb County is established as a separate county from Wayne County.
  • 1835: Mount Clemens is designated as the county seat.
  • 1837: Michigan becomes a state, and Macomb County is part of the new state.
  • 1838: The first courthouse is constructed in Mount Clemens.
  • 1861-1865: Macomb County residents participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1920s: Macomb County experiences significant growth due to automobile manufacturing and the automotive industry's overall expansion.
  • 1980s: The county becomes a major force in the defense industry with the presence of Selfridge Air National Guard Base and other defense-related facilities.
  • 2005: Macomb County celebrates its bicentennial.