History Tour

If history and architecture are a draw for you, then consider downtown Howell a "must see." Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, our downtown offers such an abundance of commercial architecture dating back to the 1800's you'll want to bring a camera when you visit!

Both simple as well as ornate Italianate facades dominate Grand River Avenue and State Street.

The Richardsonian Romanesque Courthouse is the focal point of the downtown, and the Neoclassical Carnegie Library at the west end is another point of particular interest.

In the midst of all the Italianate buildings are two High Victorian facades, a Victorian Gothic church, a Modified English Gothic Church, a Tudor Revival office building, and of course, the original Opera House that opened in 1881.

The variety, diversity, and excellence of architectural styles help make Howell unique among small towns in Michigan, and one of a few dozen recognized "Main Street" communities in the state.

 

START YOUR TOUR

First, download your personal copy of "A Walk Through Time, Seven Walking Tours of Howell, Michigan," (2MB pdf). 

The first of your Historic District tours starts downtown at the Livingston County Courthouse and sends you strolling down tree-lined streets to admire the town's rich architectural history. Take your time and enjoy the experience that is truly Howell. And don't worry, there are plenty of places to stop along the way for coffee, a snack, or even a full meal... many of them located right in the historic buildings you're visiting!

Finish the rest of your walking tour by seeing all of downtown's 14 significant historic structures. They're easy to identify: each has a historic building marker on them.

The following buildings are significant historic structures.
(Remember to bring a camera with you.)

  • The Opera House, Built 1881
  • Ann Arbor Railroad, Built 1936
  • All Saints Chapel, Built 1880
  • First Presbyterian Church, Built 1915
  • Cobb-Hall Insurance, Built 1928
  • Howell Carnegie District Library, Built 1906
  • Howell Depot, Built 1886
  • First National Bank, Built 1873
  • Down Home Interiors, C.a. 1880
  • Cleary's Pub, Built 1875
  • Dairy Queen, Built 1889
  • The Howell Theater, Built 1912
  • Livingston County Courthouse, Built 1889
  • Crandall Realty, Built 1848