Historical Markers in
Midland County, Michigan

Clare Bailey Chapel Depot Felix School Jerome Township Veterans Memorial John and Almira Kelly House Log Cabin Lumberman's Bunkhouse Main Museum Midland County Courthouse Olson Store Origins of the Salt Industry / State Salt Well No. 1 Sanford Centennial Museum Sanford Veterans Memorial St. Agnes Catholic Church Stump Puller The Upper Bridge Town Hall
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.
Michigan random facts
Midland County, located in central Michigan, has a rich and diverse history. Originally inhabited by Potawatomi and Chippewa Native American tribes, the area was later explored by French fur traders in the 1600s. In the early 19th century, the land became part of the Michigan Territory, and settlement began in the 1830s.

The founding of Midland County took place in 1850 when it was officially established. The name "Midland" was chosen due to its central location within the state. The county's early economy thrived on logging and the lumber industry, with the Tittabawassee River serving as a vital transportation route.

The discovery of natural gas in 1929 transformed the region's economy. Midland County became home to the headquarters of The Dow Chemical Company, founded by Herbert H. Dow. This event brought significant growth and development to the area, as the chemical industry contributed to the county's economic prosperity for decades to come.

Throughout the years, Midland County has remained an important hub for science, technology, and innovation. The Dow Chemical Company has continued to expand and diversify its operations, and the region has attracted numerous high-tech companies and research institutions. Today, Midland County is known for its strong sense of community, quality schools, and thriving business sector, making it an attractive place to live and work.

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

  • 1831 - Midland County is founded as a part of Saginaw County.
  • 1855 - Midland County becomes part of Bay County.
  • 1857 - Midland County is established as an independent county.
  • 1862 - The Michigan Salt Association begins mining operations in Midland County.
  • 1869 - Midland City is established as a settlement near the salt mines.
  • 1872 - The Michigan Salt Association becomes the Michigan Salt and Chemical Company.
  • 1896 - A fire destroys most of downtown Midland City.
  • 1899 - The Dow Chemical Company is founded in Midland City.
  • 1938 - The Tridge, a three-way wooden footbridge, is built across the Tittabawassee River.
  • 1943 - Dow Chemical begins large-scale production of synthetic rubber during World War II.
  • 1963 - Midland County Historical Society is established.
  • 1973 - The Alden B. Dow Museum of Science and Art is opened.
  • 2006 - Midland County celebrates its 150th anniversary.