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

Location of Gratiot County in Michigan

Gratiot County is a special place in Michigan with many interesting old buildings and sites. These important spots are called "Michigan State Historic Sites." They are recognized because they help us learn about the past. Some of these sites are also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means they are important to the history of the entire country!

Exploring Gratiot County's History

Gratiot County is home to many places that tell stories from long ago. From old college buildings to historic homes and even a courthouse, these sites help us understand what life was like in the past.

Historic Sites in Alma

The city of Alma has several places that are part of Michigan's history.

Alma College

Alma College is a well-known college in Alma. It was recognized as a historic site on March 18, 1961. This means the college and its history are important to the state.

Alma Sugar Company Office Building and Seed House

Alma Sugar Company Office Building

The Alma Sugar Company Office Building and Seed House are historic buildings from a time when sugar production was a big industry here. The office building is at 200 North Court, and the seed house is at 217 North Court. These buildings were listed as historic on January 20, 1984. They remind us of Alma's industrial past.

Historic Homes in Alma

Alma also has some beautiful old homes that are recognized for their history.

The James H. and Sarah W. Lancashire House at 633 North State Street was listed on March 28, 1985.
The A.W. Wright House at 503 North State Street became a historic site on July 29, 1980. These homes show us the architecture and lifestyle of earlier times.

Michigan Masonic Home

The Michigan Masonic Home is located at 1200 Wright Avenue. It was recognized as a historic site on May 21, 1985. This building has served as a home for members of the Masonic organization for many years.

Michigan's Petroleum Industry

North of Alma, along US-27, there's a roadside rest area that marks an important part of Michigan's history: the petroleum industry. This informational site was recognized on January 19, 1957. It tells the story of how oil and gas were discovered and used in Michigan.

Ithaca's Important Landmarks

Ithaca, the county seat of Gratiot County, also has several significant historic sites.

Gratiot County Courthouse

The Gratiot County Courthouse is a very important building in Ithaca. It's located on Center Street in Courthouse Square. This courthouse was listed as a historic site on September 15, 1957. It's where many important decisions for the county have been made over the years.

Historic Homes in Ithaca

Ithaca has several historic homes that are recognized for their architectural and historical value.

The Jackson-Weller House at 129 West Center Street was listed on January 16, 1990.
The John Jeffery House at 225 West Center Street became a historic site on August 12, 1983.
The Kosciusko P. Peet House at 228 West Center Street was recognized on September 21, 1983. These homes offer a glimpse into the lives of early residents of Ithaca.

Henry Pattengill Monument

Henry Pattingill Monument

The Henry Pattengill Monument is located at the northeast corner of West Center and North Maple streets. This monument was recognized in 2011. It honors Henry Pattengill, an important figure in Michigan's history.

Other Notable Historic Sites

Gratiot County has other historic sites spread across its townships and villages.

Bethany Mission Cemetery

The Bethany Mission Cemetery is a historic burial ground located on Riverside Drive north of McGregory Road in Bethany Township. It was listed as a historic site on January 17, 1986, preserving the memory of early settlers.

Drake House

The Drake House is located at 328 East Saginaw Street in Breckenridge. This historic home was recognized in 2009.

Dr. Charles H. MacLachlan Sanitarium and House

Dr. Charles MacLachlan House

The Dr. Charles H. MacLachlan Sanitarium and House is located at 6482 Pingree Road in Elwell. It was listed on January 8, 1981. This site includes both a historic house and a sanitarium, which was a type of health retreat or hospital.

Lumberjack & Riverdrivers Association Park

The Lumberjack & Riverdrivers Association Park is located on Lumberjack Road, about 1.5 miles north of M-46 in Seville. This park was recognized on January 11, 1982. It celebrates the history of lumberjacks and river drivers, who played a big role in Michigan's early economy.

Stiles Kennedy House

The Stiles Kennedy House is located at 310 West Washington Street in St. Louis. It was listed as a historic site on March 21, 1991.

Second Presbyterian Church of Lafayette

The Second Presbyterian Church of Lafayette is located at 8026 East Street / Charles Road in Lafayette Township. This church was recognized on July 17, 1981. It represents an important part of the community's religious history.