Hillsdale
Inscription
The plat for the village of Hillsdale was filed in July 1839, though the first settlement probably occurred a few years previously. Before that time this area had been inhabited mainly by a band of Potawatomi Indians led by their chief, Baw Beese. Jonesville was the first county seat, but Hillsdale gained this distinction in 1843 due to its more central location and the completion of the Michigan Southern Railroad to the town.
The first Hillsdale County Fair was held on this site in 1851. Hillsdale College opened for classes in November 1855, and the city received its charter in April 1869.
Location
Sources
More markers in Hillsdale
St. Anthony's Catholic Church
Hillsdale, MI
The origins of Catholicism in Hillsdale County date to the 1840s when Irishmen who worked for the Southern Railroad settled here.
Saint Peter's Episcopal Church
Hillsdale, MI
In 1839 Episcopalians held the first church service in Hillsdale.
Congregational Church of Litchfield
Litchfield, MI
Twenty charter members, led by the Reverend Elisha Buck, established this church on July 14, 1839.
Grosvenor House
Jonesville, MI
Completed in 1874, this structure of High Victorian Italianate design is one of the most magnificent residences in Michigan.
College Baptist Church
Hillsdale, MI
This church was incorporated as the First Free Will Baptist Church on November 24, 1855.