Depot Town in Ypsilanti in Washtenaw County, Michigan — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Michigan Central Railroad Depot
90 Maple Street
The railroad came to Ypsilanti in 1838. The inaugural ride was truly a distinguished party that included the 19 year old "Boy Governor," Stevens T. Mason and John D. Pierce, the first State Superintendent of Education. Their arrival on a cold February day was greeted with speeches and celebration. On the return trip to Detroit, the train broke down and the dignitaries were forced to travel the rest of the way on foot.
The original depot was a wooden frame structure. With the rapid growth of local industry it became necessary to replace the building. The new depot was built in the 1860s. The Victorian structure with gingerbread trim had a three story tower and was said to be the most beautiful depot on the Michigan Central Railroad Line.
In 1910 a fire destroyed the upper floor and most of the tower. Disaster struck again in 1939 when a train derailed, taking another section of the depot. The depot operated as a full service stop until the 1950s when increased popularity of the automobile reduced demand for the Ypsilanti destination. It ceased operations in the 1970s.
Also...
In Michigan: In an attempt to influence Congress into allowing Michigan official designation as a state, nine counties were named after President Jackson and members of his cabinet. They are Berrien, Van Buren, Cass, Barry, Eaton, Ingham, Calhoun, Branch and Jackson Counties. It didn't help. In 1837, Michigan officially became the 26th state.
American Events: Although not the first railroad, in 1830 the Baltimore and Ohio (B&O) Railroad was the first American railroad to offer regular freight and passenger service, besting the former means of waterways for travel.
Donated by Jos. A. Malik & 3d Family - 1998
Erected 1998 by Depot Town Association.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Railroads & Streetcars. In addition, it is included in the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (B&O), and the Former U.S. Presidents: #07 Andrew Jackson series lists. A significant historical year for this entry is 1838.
Location. 42° 14.767′ N, 83° 36.595′ W. Marker is in Ypsilanti, Michigan, in Washtenaw County. It is in Depot Town. Marker is on East Cross Street, on the right when traveling west. Marker is along the sidewalk between 29 and 33 East Cross Street, about 350 feet west of North River Road. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 29 East Cross Street, Ypsilanti MI 48198, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Michigan Central Railroad Gardens (here, next to this marker); The Thompson Building (here, next to this marker); The Real McCoy (here, next to this marker); Ypsilanti Woolen Mill Company (here, next to this marker); The Oliver House (here, next to this marker); Early Days in Depot Town (here, next to this marker); The Last Hudson Dealership (a few steps from this marker); Michigan Central Freighthouse (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Ypsilanti.
Credits. This page was last revised on February 12, 2023. It was originally submitted on May 12, 2017, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan. This page has been viewed 665 times since then and 107 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. submitted on May 12, 2017, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan.