List of Michigan State Historic Sites in Barry County Facts for Kids

Location of Barry County in Michigan

Hey everyone! Did you know that Barry County, Michigan, is full of cool places that tell stories about the past? These special spots are called Michigan State Historic Sites. They are important because they help us learn about the people, events, and buildings that shaped our community. Some of these sites are even listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which means they are super important across the whole country! Let's explore some of these amazing places and discover what makes them so special.

Exploring Barry County's Historic Places
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Exploring Barry County's Historic Places

The Heart of Hastings: Important Buildings

The historic Barry County Courthouse in Hastings.

One of the most important buildings in Hastings is the Barry County Courthouse. This grand building, located at 220 West State Street, has been a central part of the community for a long time. It was officially recognized as a historic site on February 28, 1969. Courthouses are where important decisions are made and laws are upheld, making this a key place in the county's history.

Another significant spot in Hastings is the Central Elementary School and Auditorium at 509 South Broadway. This school has been a place of learning for many generations of students. It was listed as a historic site on April 18, 1991, showing its importance to education in the area.

The Hastings Railroad Depot is another cool historic building, found at 222 West Apple Street. Train stations were once super busy places, connecting towns and helping people and goods travel. This depot was recognized on July 26, 1974, reminding us of the days when trains were a main way to get around.

Homes with History: Notable Houses

The John Carveth House in Middleville.

In Middleville, you can find the John Carveth House at 614 West Main Street. This house was listed as a historic site on December 17, 1992. Homes like this often belonged to important people in the community or show us how people lived in the past.

Another interesting home is the William Colby House at 5011 Whitneyville Road, also near Middleville. It became a historic site on March 19, 1992. These houses help us imagine what life was like for families many years ago.

In Hastings, the George W. Lowry House at 126 South Broadway is another historic home. It was listed on September 8, 1982. These old houses are like time capsules, showing us different styles of architecture and how communities grew.

Community and Faith: Churches and Halls

The Carlton Township Hall.

The Carlton Township Hall on M-43, west of M-66, is an important community building. Township halls are where local government meetings happen and where people gather for community events. This hall was recognized on August 3, 1979.

The Methodist Episcopal Church in Hastings, now known as Christ the King Presbyterian Church, is located at 300 Jefferson. Churches are often central to a community's history, serving as places of worship and gathering for many years. This church was listed on April 19, 1995.

In Nashville, the Saint Cyril's Catholic Church at 203 North State Street is another historic place of worship. It was recognized on April 29, 1982. These buildings often have beautiful architecture and long histories of serving their congregations.

Special Sites and Stories

Bowen's Mills, a historic grist mill.

Bowen's Mills is a unique historic site located on Brigg's Road in Yankee Springs Township. This site, listed on February 11, 1972, likely represents an old mill where grain was ground into flour. Mills were very important for early communities, providing essential food products.

The Indian Landing - Charlton Park is a significant cultural site located within Charlton Park at 2545 S Charlton Park Road in Hastings Township. This area was recognized on March 14, 1973. It reminds us of the rich history of Native American people who lived in this region long before European settlers arrived.

Scales' Prairie, found at the corner of Adams and Norris roads in Thornapple Township, was listed on February 11, 1972. Prairies are open grasslands, and this site likely marks an important natural area that was significant to early settlers or Native Americans.

Informational Designations: Learning About the Past

Some historic sites are "Informational Designations." This means they are places where something important happened, even if there isn't an old building there anymore.

Barryville Informational Designation at 6043 Scott Road in Barryville was listed on November 6, 1970. This spot tells the story of the early settlement of Barryville.

The Hastings Mutual Insurance Company Informational Designation at 404 East Woodlawn Avenue in Hastings was recognized on June 15, 1984. This marks the location of a company that has been important to the local economy for many years.

The Governor Kim Sigler Informational Designation at 220 West State Street in Hastings was listed on January 22, 1987. This site honors Kim Sigler, who served as the Governor of Michigan. Learning about past leaders helps us understand our state's history.