City Hall (Bay City, Michigan) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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City Hall
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 Location in Michigan
Location in the United States
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| Location | 301 Washington St., Bay City, Michigan |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1897 |
| Architect | Pratt & Koeppe |
| Architectural style | Romanesque, Richardsonian Romanesque |
| NRHP reference No. | 75000936 |
| Added to NRHP | July 18, 1975 |
The Bay City Hall is an important government building located at 301 Washington Street in Bay City, Michigan. It's where the city's leaders work to make decisions and manage services for everyone living in Bay City. This historic building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975, recognizing its special value.
Contents
The History of Bay City Hall
Building a New Home for the City
Bay City started growing way back in the 1830s. By the mid-1800s, many sawmills were busy along the Saginaw River. After the American Civil War, the city continued to thrive with lumber and shipbuilding.
In 1889, people in Bay City voted to build a brand new city hall. Two local architects, Leverett A. Pratt and Walter Koeppe, were chosen to design it in 1892. The first stone of the building was placed in 1894. The city hall was finished by the summer of 1897. It cost about $175,000 to build.
Years of Service and Renovation
Bay City Hall has been used by the city government throughout the 1900s. A big update happened in 1975 to keep the building in good shape.
In 2010, workers started replacing the roof tiles. Sadly, a construction accident caused a large fire. The building had to close for three years. An extensive renovation project costing $10 million was completed. Bay City Hall reopened in 2013 and still serves the city today.
What Bay City Hall Looks Like
Architectural Style and Materials
Bay City Hall is built in a style called Richardsonian Romanesque. This style often features strong, heavy stone and round arches. The building is made from Indiana limestone, sandstone, and granite. It measures about 120 feet by 200 feet.
Key Features of the Building
The roof has many gables and is covered with tiles. A tall sandstone tower stands nearly 180 feet high at the southeast corner. This tower has a pointed roof with spires. It also holds a large clock with a face on each of its four sides.
The windows are flat at the top but set inside round arches. They are divided by thick stone columns. The main entrance is a huge double Romanesque arch. It's decorated with detailed stucco artwork. An arched porch supported by shiny stone columns shelters the entrance.
Inside the City Hall
When you step inside, you'll notice a large central stairwell. Skylights above let in lots of natural light. The stairwell has a beautifully designed cast iron railing with fancy scrolls.
