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Michigan Welcomes 11 New Historical Gems to National Register

A newly recognized historical site in Michigan, showcasing architectural beauty and cultural heritage.

News Summary

Last week, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation announced the addition of 11 historic sites to the National Register of Historic Places. These properties, significant for their history and architecture, reflect the rich cultural heritage of Michigan. Notable sites include the Capri Drive-In Theater and Detroit Association of Women’s Clubs, showcasing both preservation efforts and the community’s connection to history. These additions promise to enhance tourism and local pride.

Michigan Welcomes 11 New Historical Gems to National Register

So, Detroit and surrounding areas, put on your history hats! Last week marked an exciting moment as the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) announced that 11 properties have just been added to the National Register of Historic Places. That’s right, folks! These fantastic places join an impressive roster of about 96,000 properties across the nation, with nearly 2,000 of them right here in Michigan. Talk about some serious bragging rights!

What’s the Big Deal About the National Register?

The National Register serves as the federal government’s official list, shining a light on sites deemed worthy of preservation for their historical significance. To secure a spot on this esteemed list, properties generally need to be at least 50 years old and have a significant story to tell—either linked to major historical events or notable trends. And let’s be honest, Michigan is rich with stories!

Let’s Dive into the New Additions

Get ready for a peek at some of the properties now officially recognized:

Capri Drive-In Theater, Coldwater: How cool is this? Opened in 1964, it’s Michigan’s very first drive-in theater recognized on the list! Its original 1964 design features remain intact, taking us back in time to the golden days of cinema under the stars.
Hayes Hotel, Jackson: Opened in 1926, this former premier hotel is known for its lavish marble finishes and gold-adorned foyer. And guess what? It’s now gearing up for a fresh renovation to revive its former glory.
Detroit Association of Women’s Clubs (DAWC), Detroit: Founded in 1921, this building plays a pivotal role in civil rights history. It underwent significant changes to address housing covenants that once restricted Black ownership. Talk about empowerment!
Oak Ridge Cemetery, Buchanan: Established in 1864, this cemetery has its own unique feature—the Knight Chapel, named after the brave pioneer aviator, Jack “Sky” Knight.
Rogers Theater, Rogers City: Built in 1937, this theater revived its charm after a fire in 1948 and still shows films! Thanks to being gifted to the local library in 2016, it’s continuing to entertain the community.
Washington Apartments, Lansing: This building, completed in 1923, was built as rental housing for families moving to town for exciting new jobs in the booming automobile industry.
Vicksburg Union Depot, Vicksburg: Opened in 1904, this depot now houses the Vicksburg Historical Society, acting as a gateway to the village’s rich history.
Philip J. Hart Plaza, Detroit: Located where Antoine de la Monthe Cadillac landed in 1701, this plaza opened in 1975 and is a crucial part of the Detroit International RiverWalk.
Millwood Apartments, Detroit: This diamond in the rough was built in 1904, showcasing early 20th-century architectural design. A piece of the past right in the heart of the city!
William and Lovila Moore House, Caro: This early “smart house” gained attention in the 1920s for its modern electronic inventions. Can you believe how ahead of its time it was?
U.S. Post Office Plymouth Station: Now home to Westborn Market, this post office is notable for its New Deal-era design and community significance dating back to 1935-1936.

Economical and Cultural Benefits

But wait, there’s more! The addition of these properties isn’t just about history; they also have a potential for economic benefits through preservation incentives. Preserving our heritage fosters a deeper connection to our communities and sparks interest from both residents and tourists alike.

With this new recognition, it’s clear that these historical gems reflect the rich stories and experiences of Michiganders. So, whether you’re a history buff, an architecture admirer, or someone who just appreciates a good story, these newly added properties are definitely worth a visit. Who knows? You might just discover your new favorite spot in our beautiful state!