National Register Listings in
Ottawa County, Michigan

Bilz, Aloys, House Cappon, Isaac, House De Pree, Max and Esther, House De Zwaan Windmill Ferry, Edward P., House Fruitport Road-Pettys Bayou Bridge Gold, Egbert H., Estate Grand Haven Historic District Grand Rapids, Grand Haven and Muskegon Railway Depot Grand Trunk Western Railroad Grand Haven Coal Tipple Holland Downtown Historic District Holland Harbor Lighthouse Holland Historic District Holland Historic District (Boundary Increase) Holland Old City Hall and Fire Station Holland Reformed Protestant Dutch Church Hudsonville Christian School Lakewood Farm Morrissey, Thomas and Anna, House Olive Township District No. 1 School Ottawa Beach Historic District Pere Marquette Railway Locomotive #1223 Piers and Revetments at Grand Haven, Michigan Robbins, Nathaniel and Esther (Savidge), House Third Reformed Church of Holland Van Raalte, Benjamin, House
Available on Amazon
Michigan's Historic Railroad Stations (Painted Turtle Press) Hardcover – October 1, 2012
Michigan's Historic Railroad Stations (Painted Turtle)

The Great Lakes make Michigan proud!
Jennifer Granholm in Remarks at the Democratic National Convention, 2004
Ottawa County is located in the state of Michigan and has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1837. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Ottawa, Potawatomi, and Ojibwe tribes, who primarily relied on the land for hunting and fishing. European settlers arrived in the early 19th century, with the first permanent settlement established in what is now known as Holland, Michigan.

The county's early economy was largely centered around agriculture, with settlers cultivating crops such as wheat and corn. The construction of the Erie Canal in the 1830s facilitated trade and transportation, opening up opportunities for economic growth and attracting more settlers to the area. As the population grew, Ottawa County became a key hub for manufacturing and industry, particularly in the furniture, automotive, and manufacturing sectors.

Ottawa County played a significant role in the early development of the automotive industry in Michigan, with Henry Ford opening his first automobile factory in Highland Park, just outside of the county, in the early 1900s. The county's proximity to major waterways, including Lake Michigan and the Grand River, also made it an important transportation and shipping hub.

In recent years, Ottawa County has experienced continued growth and development, with a diversification of industries and population. The county is known for its natural beauty, including its picturesque beaches along Lake Michigan, as well as its commitment to preserving its history and culture. Today, Ottawa County is a thriving community with a strong economy, vibrant cities, and a rich historical heritage.

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

  • 1831: Ottawa County is established by an act of the Michigan Territorial Legislature.
  • 1836: The county is formally organized, with its first government officials appointed.
  • 1837: The city of Holland is settled by Dutch immigrants, becoming an important cultural and economic center in the county.
  • 1845: Grand Haven is incorporated as a city, serving as a major port on Lake Michigan.
  • 1850: The county's population reaches over 8,000 people.
  • 1860: The county's population grows to more than 22,000 people.
  • 1885: The city of Zeeland is incorporated, founded by Dutch Calvinist separatists.
  • 1901: The county's population reaches over 40,000 people.
  • 1938: The Grand Haven South Pierhead Lighthouse is built, becoming a historic landmark in the county.
  • 1956: The county's population surpasses 100,000 people.
  • 1981: Ottawa County Parks and Recreation Commission is established, leading to the development of numerous parks and natural areas.
  • 2000: The county's population exceeds 238,000 people.
  • 2019: Ottawa County continues to experience steady growth and maintains a strong economy.