National Register Listings in
St. Clair County, Michigan

Colony Tower Complex Colony Tower Complex (Boundary Increase) Davidson, Wilbur F., House Federal Building Fort Gratiot Lighthouse Grand Trunk Western Railroad Depot Harrington Hotel Howard Block HURON (lightship) Indian Trail Road-Belle River Bridge Jeddo Road-South Branch Mill Creek Drain Bridge Ladies of the Maccabees Building Marine City City Hall Marine City Water Works Masters Road-Belle River Bridge McColl, James, House Military Road Historic District Seventh Street-Black River Bridge Smith, LeRoy, House St. Clair Flats South Channel Range Lights St. Clair Inn St. Clair River Tunnel USCGC BRAMBLE (cutter) Vernier Street-Swan Creek Bridge Wadhams Road-Pine River Bridge Ward-Holland House
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Historic Photos of University of Michigan Hardcover – November 2, 2007
Historic Photos of University of Michigan

Michigan has certain charms that this state can’t replicate. The idea is to import some of that energy here.
Andrew Zwicker in Asbury Park Press, 2019
St. Clair County, located in the southeastern part of the state of Michigan, has a rich and diverse history dating back to the early 17th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Ojibwa and Ottawa. The first European explorer to visit the region was French explorer Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac in 1698.

In the 18th century, St. Clair County became an important trading post for French fur traders. The region was also a battleground during the French and Indian War, with several conflicts taking place near the Fort Gratiot area. In the late 18th century, the area came under British control following the Treaty of Paris.

The 19th century brought significant changes to St. Clair County. It became a center for shipbuilding and trade as pioneers and settlers from the east began to migrate to Michigan. The construction of the Erie Canal in the 1820s further boosted economic activity in the region by connecting ports along the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean.

During the American Civil War, St. Clair County played a significant role in supporting the Union cause. The area saw a surge in industrialization, with factories producing munitions, ships, and other supplies for the war effort. Following the war, St. Clair County continued to grow and develop, becoming an important hub for agriculture, manufacturing, and commerce.

Today, St. Clair County retains a strong sense of its past while also embracing modernization and economic diversification. Its historical sites, such as the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse and the Thomas Edison Depot Museum, attract visitors interested in learning about the county's rich heritage. The region's natural beauty, with its lakes, rivers, and parks, offer recreational opportunities for locals and tourists alike. St. Clair County remains a vibrant and dynamic part of Michigan, with a bright future ahead.

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

  • St. Clair County was established in 1820.
  • In 1821, Port Huron became the county seat.
  • In the early 1830s, the area was settled by European immigrants.
  • In 1848, the Grand Trunk Railroad reached Port Huron, boosting economic growth.
  • During the late 1800s, St. Clair County became a major shipping hub for lumber and agricultural products.
  • In 1957, the Blue Water Bridge connecting Port Huron to Canada was opened.
  • Throughout the 20th century, the county's economy diversified with industries such as automotive manufacturing and tourism.
  • In recent years, St. Clair County has focused on promoting outdoor recreational activities, attracting visitors and residents alike.