Railroad, Interurban, & Stagecoach Road
Surveyors in the early 1800s enlarged the St. Joseph Indian trail, originally only about a foot wide, to create the Saint Joseph Road.
History of Marshall
Welcome to Marshall, a city where history comes alive. Founded in 1830 by the visionary Ketchum brothers, Marshall quickly became a beacon of progress and innovation. Named after Chief Justice John Marshall, our city boasts one of the largest National Historic Landmark Districts in the country, with over 850 preserved buildings showcasing stunning 19th-century architecture. Plan your visit to discover Marshall's unique blend of history and charm.
Underground Railroad & Crosswhite
In 1846, slave catchers tried to capture escaped slave Adam Crosswhite and his family in Marshall to return them to their owner in Kentucky. Instead, the citizens of Marshall arrested the slave…
Education Oak
A stately oak was the location chosen by the Rev. John Pierce and Isaac Crary for their discussions of the founding of the education system for the territory that was to become…
Historic Preservation
The city’s preservation efforts aim to maintain its distinctive small-town charm while promoting sustainable growth and community pride. Through local initiatives, preservation advocacy, and partnerships, Marshall strives to honor its past while…
Due to its prime location, Marshall was set up for success when it was founded in 1830 by brothers Sidney and George Ketchum. To give you reference, Calhoun County was established in 1829 and Marshall was made the county seat in 1831. Most settlements at that time were founded for agricultural or industrial reasons, but the Ketchum brothers dreamed of a community of professional politicians, doctors, lawyers, and businessmen.
As a major stop on the stagecoach route and then the switching station for the powerful Michigan Central Railroad, Marshall has a rich transportation history.
- Stagecoach and early hotels
- MCRR, Chicken Pie Stop and the birth of the first railroad union
- Interurban transportation
In 1835 two early Marshall residents, Isaac Crary and Rev. John Pierce, developed a public school system for Michigan which became a model for the country.
Adam Crosswhite was an escaped slave who arrived in Marshall with his family in 1844 by following the Underground Railroad.
Shortly after its founding, the thriving town was expected to become the capital of Michigan, but lost to Lansing in 1847.
Harold Brooks began the preservation movement in the late 1920’s, only he called it “city beautification.” He bought, restored and then sold at least 20 key structures. He also gave a prize for the best garden in town.
Marshall has eight museums that you can explore, each with different displays for you to look at and interesting stories to hear.
The Marshall National Historic Landmark District comprises an outstanding collection of remarkably intact nineteenth and early twentieth century architecture in a small-scale American city.
Explore Marshall by following a self-guided historic walk, visiting town for the annual Historic Home Tour, or in other fun and unique ways.
Today, Marshall continues to embrace its historic past while remaining committed to economic growth. When you visit, we’re sure you will agree…History is made in Marshall!