Eastern Michigan University Historic District

a.k.a. See Also:Starkweather Hall

Cross St., Washtenaw and Forest Aves., Ypsilanti, MI
Local significance of the district:
Education; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1984.
  A brief timeline of the history of the Republic of Texas
  • 1821: The Mexican War of Independence concludes, and Mexico gains independence from Spain. Texas is a part of the newly formed Republic of Mexico.
  • 1824: The Mexican government establishes the Constitution of 1824, which grants certain rights to the Mexican states, including Texas.
  • 1826: A group of American settlers, known as the Fredonian Rebellion, attempt to establish an independent state in Texas. The rebellion is short-lived and quickly suppressed by Mexican authorities.
  • 1830: The Mexican government, concerned about the growing number of American settlers in Texas, passes the Law of April 6, 1830, which imposes restrictions on further American immigration to Texas.
  • 1835: Tensions between American settlers and the Mexican government escalate, leading to the Texas Revolution. The Texian rebels, led by figures such as Stephen F. Austin and Sam Houston, engage in battles against Mexican forces.
  • 1836: On March 2, the Texian delegates at the Convention of 1836 declare independence from Mexico and establish the Republic of Texas. Sam Houston is elected as the first President of Texas. The Battle of the Alamo takes place in February-March, where a small Texian garrison defends the Alamo Mission against a large Mexican army. Despite their defeat, the battle becomes a symbol of Texian resistance.
  • 1836-1838: The Republic of Texas faces a series of military conflicts with Mexico, including the Goliad Massacre and the Battle of San Jacinto. The decisive Texian victory at San Jacinto secures their independence and captures Mexican General Santa Anna, who signs the Treaties of Velasco recognizing Texas as an independent nation.
  • 1836-1845: The Republic of Texas operates as an independent nation, establishing a constitution, government, and capital at various locations including Washington-on-the-Brazos, Harrisburg, and eventually, Houston. Efforts to join the United States face opposition due to fears of potential conflict with Mexico.
  • 1845: Texas agrees to annexation and becomes the 28th state of the United States on December 29, 1845, following approval by the U.S. Congress. This leads to the Mexican-American War in 1846.
Although the Republic of Texas was relatively short-lived, lasting from 1836 to 1845, it played a significant role in shaping the history of Texas and its eventual integration into the United States.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

Loading...
The University of Michigan, located in Ann Arbor, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the United States. It was founded in 1817, 20 years before Michigan became a state, and its alumni include President Gerald Ford, Google co-founder Larry Page, and actor James Earl Jones.
Washtenaw County, located in southeastern Michigan, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by indigenous tribes, particularly the Ojibwe and Potawatomi, who made use of the fertile land along the Huron River for farming and trade. The first European settlers arrived in the late 18th century, establishing a small community called Ann Arbor.

The county was officially established in 1826 and was named after the Native American term for the river that runs through it, "Wash-ten-ong," meaning "faraway water." The area quickly grew in the 19th century, thanks to its proximity to Detroit and its favorable agricultural conditions. The construction of the Michigan Central Railroad in the 1830s further boosted the county's economic development, as it provided a direct connection to other major cities.

In the mid-19th century, education became a significant focus in Washtenaw County with the establishment of the University of Michigan in 1837. The university's presence brought intellectual and cultural wealth to the area, attracting scholars and professionals who contributed to the county's growth. Ann Arbor, the county seat, developed into a vibrant college town, known for its progressive thinking and innovative spirit.

Over the years, Washtenaw County has also played a significant role in American history. During the Civil War, it was a hub of anti-slavery sentiment and actively participated in the Underground Railroad. The county also witnessed activism during the civil rights movement of the 1960s.

Today, Washtenaw County continues to thrive as a hub of education, technology, and culture. Its cities and towns, including Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, and Chelsea, are known for their vibrant arts scenes, outdoor recreational opportunities, and diverse communities. The county remains a key center for research, innovation, and higher education in Michigan.

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

  • 1822 - Initial settlement by European-Americans begins in Washtenaw County
  • 1826 - Ann Arbor established as the county seat
  • 1829 - University of Michigan founded in Ann Arbor
  • 1835 - Washtenaw County officially organized
  • 1843 - First railroad line constructed in the county
  • 1861 - Civil War begins, many residents from Washtenaw County enlist
  • 1896 - The first automobile in Washtenaw County is driven in Ann Arbor
  • 1959 - Willow Run Airport (now Willow Run Airport) opens
  • 1963 - The Beatles perform at the University of Michigan's Hill Auditorium
  • 1970 - Student protests against the Vietnam War occur at the University of Michigan
  • 1983 - Washtenaw County Historical Society established to preserve local history
  • 1999 - Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission created to manage parks and trails