History of Fairgrove Michigan, 1852-1956

The document provides a detailed history of Fairgrove Township, Michigan, from its early settlers to significant developments up to 1956. The initial pages describe the purpose of the document and its contributors. Eliza Black Atkinson, born in 1867 and a long-time educator in Tuscola County, wrote the primary history in 1949, focusing on pioneer families who settled before 1890. The history covers various aspects of township development, including land acquisition, the establishment of infrastructure, and the community’s growth through personal stories and family histories.

In the heart of Tuscola County, Michigan, lies a community whose history is as rich and textured as the land itself. “Fairgrove Centennial, 1852-1956” offers a comprehensive look into the development and spirit of Fairgrove Township, an area that has evolved from untouched wilderness to a thriving community over the course of a century. Crafted with dedication by Elizabeth Atkinson, Eva Misner Aldrich, and the Fairgrove Township Library Board, this volume stands as a testament to the tenacity, resilience, and community spirit of the people who have called Fairgrove home.

From its early days of settlement, marked by the formidable challenges of clearing land and establishing homes, to the bustling, interconnected community it became, Fairgrove’s story is meticulously recounted. The publication, a labor of love and scholarship, delves into the myriad aspects of township development, including the crucial roles of agriculture, education, religion, and social infrastructure in shaping the community’s identity.

The detailed family histories contained within its pages do more than chronicle the lives of those early settlers; they weave a rich tapestry of personal sacrifice, communal effort, and intergenerational legacy. Through these stories, we gain insight into the collective soul of Fairgrove, seeing how individual families contributed to the township’s growth and character.

Moreover, “Fairgrove Centennial, 1852-1956” explores the evolution of the township’s social and cultural life, from the simple pleasures of husking bees and quilting parties to the establishment of educational and religious institutions that formed the backbone of community life. It highlights the shift from isolation to connectivity, showing how roads, mail delivery, and even the first newspaper played pivotal roles in knitting the community closer together.

This volume also pays homage to the civic and service-oriented aspects of Fairgrove’s development. From the formation of its governmental structure to the critical establishment of fire services, it showcases the community’s commitment to creating a safe, organized, and enduring township.

Note: This copy of the original book has been reproduced by offset. Pages consequently are not of original quality and appear very faint.

Table of Contents:

1. Fairgrove Township in Tuscola Michigan, p. 2
   The document recounts the township’s establishment, including the formation of Fairgrove Township in 1855 and its early settlers. It highlights the hardships and pioneering spirit of these settlers, who transformed the wilderness into a thriving community.
2. An Indian Character, p. 7
3. Families, p. 7
   Brief family histories provide insight into the lives of the township’s early families, including their contributions to Fairgrove’s development. These stories include details of land acquisitions, contributions to community life, and intergenerational connections within the township. Families: Adams, Aldrich, Allan, Arnold, Barber, Bennett, Black, Burroughs, Bussing, Campbell, Cartwright, Caufield, Clay, Cranston, Cutts, Davis, Davison, Everett, Foster, Gardner, Gaylord, Gordon, Graham, Harris, Hinson, Hoffman, Honsinger, Houghtaling, Hunter, Inglis, Irish, Jameson, Jennings, Johnson, Judd, Kirk, Luce, Luther, Mantey, Maxwell, McAlpine, McCloy, McCormick, McCreedy, McFarland, McLuney, Misner, Montei, Moore, Otis, Parish, Partlo, Pike, Richter, Ringle, Roby, Rohlfs, Shearer, Sheridan, Sherman, Smith, Staub, Stoddard, Wilber, Wylie,
4. 1899 Citizens, p. 24
   An incomplete list of citizens residing in the township in 1899.
5. Community Life and Infrastructure, p. 25
   The document describes the early social and cultural life in Fairgrove, including details of amusements like husking bees, quilting parties, and dances. It paints a vivid picture of the attire and social norms of the “Gay 90’s.”
6. Doctors Practicing in Fairgrove, p. 29
7. Chronological Arrangement, p. 30
   Chronology of Fairgrove Michigan history
8. Churches in Fairgrove Township, p. 32
   Brief histories of several churches provide insight into the religious and spiritual foundations of the community.
   • History of Methodist Episcopal Church, p. 33
   • History of Evangelical Church, p. 34
   • Fairgrove Mission Church, p. 35
   • History of First Presbyterian Church of Fairgrove, p. 35
   • History of Grace Lutheran Church, p. 38
   • History of St. Jude Roman Catholic Church, p. 38
   • History of Other Churches, p. 38
9. History of Local Education, p. 38
   The evolution of local education is chronicled, from the first school districts to the development of the Fairgrove Rural Agricultural School. The narrative highlights the expansion of educational infrastructure and curriculum, underscoring the community’s commitment to education.
10. Government History, p. 42
    A brief account of the township’s governmental formation and development, listing key elected officials over time, reflects on the civic structure and administration.
11. History of Fire Department, p. 44
    The narrative covers the establishment and evolution of the fire department, highlighting the community’s efforts to improve safety and emergency response capabilities.
12. List of Disastrous Fires in the Village, p. 44
    Several significant fires that shaped the community’s history and development are recounted. These events underscore the challenges faced by the township and its resilience in rebuilding and moving forward.
13. Did You Know That, p. 45
    A collection of miscellaneous facts and anecdotes, titled “Did You Know That?”, provides quirky and interesting tidbits about Fairgrove’s history, offering a glimpse into the community’s unique aspects and historical moments.
14. Who Remembers? p. 47
15. Patriotic Services Rendered in Civil War, p. 48
16. Advertisements, p. 49