Grand Ledge in Eaton County, Michigan — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Governor Frank D. Fitzgerald Home
Photographed By Joel Seewald, August 7, 2018
1. Governor Frank D. Fitzgerald Home Marker
Governor Frank D. Fitzgerald Home
Here lived Frank D. Fitzgerald who served his first term as governor 1935-36. His second term, starting in January 1939, was cut short by his death in this house in March of that year. Born in Grand Ledge in 1885, Fitzgerald earned wide respect from local citizens. A Republican, he was secretary of state 1930-34, State chief executive during some tumultuous Depression years, Fitzgerald advocated government re-organization measures including a civil service system for state employees.
Fitzgerald cont.
Governor Fitzgerald acquired this house during his first gubernatorial term. At that time the State did not provide an official mansion; thus Fitzgerald used this home as the governor's residence. Out of office 1937-38, he planned his successful re-election campaign from here. Lansing architect Edwyn C. Bowd designed the residence in 1907. It was built for $18,000. The house was set on a high foundation. The tile roof, massive chimneys, and rounded bay windows, are Romanesque style.
Erected 1979 by Michigan History Division, Department of State. (Marker Number S511.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Government & Politics. In
this page online
Location. 42° 45.274′ N, 84° 44.882′ W. Marker is in Grand Ledge, Michigan, in Eaton County. Marker is on West Jefferson west of Harrison Street, on the left when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 291 West Jefferson, Grand Ledge MI 48837, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. "Growing Progress" (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Second Island (about 500 feet away); Historic Island Rollercoaster (about 700 feet away); Shane Jewelry Company (about 700 feet away); Blake's Opera House (approx. 0.2 miles away); Grand Ledge 1909 (approx. 0.2 miles away); Preston's Grocery - Preston's Bar (approx. ¼ mile away); Grand Ledge Chair Company (approx. 0.4 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Grand Ledge.
Also see . . . Frank Fitzgerald. (Submitted on August 31, 2018, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan.)
Photographed By Joel Seewald, August 7, 2018
2. Governor Frank D. Fitzgerald Home Marker
Photographed By Joel Seewald, August 7, 2018
3. Governor Frank D. Fitzgerald Home and Marker
View from the southeast.
Photographed By Joel Seewald, August 7, 2018
4. Governor Frank D. Fitzgerald Home and Marker
View from the northwest.
Credits. This page was last revised on August 31, 2018. It was originally submitted on August 31, 2018, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan. This page has been viewed 360 times since then and 37 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on August 31, 2018, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan.
