Railway History
Railroad History and Heritage of Howell, Michigan
Historic Howell Depot
Historical Background
Founded in the 1830s as “Livingston Centre,” Howell gained prominence as the county seat, but the arrival of the railroad transformed the town. The first railroad arrived in 1871 when the Detroit, Howell & Lansing Railroad completed a line linking Detroit to Lansing via Howell. In the 1880s, Howell’s leaders pushed for additional rail service, resulting in the Toledo, Ann Arbor & North Michigan Railway building a second line in 1886, establishing Howell as a minor railroad junction. By 1914, Howell had evolved into a thriving town, with railroads deeply embedding into its identity.
Economic and Social Influence
The railroads revolutionized Howell’s economy by facilitating the export of agricultural products and the import of essential goods. The Detroit, Lansing & Northern Railroad built stockyards and a freight house, expanding in 1890 to meet demand. Rail competition after 1886 drove freight rates down, allowing Howell’s businesses to thrive. Socially, the railroads connected Howell to major cities, enabling more frequent travel and communication. Telegraph lines further integrated Howell into broader communication networks, creating a more connected, economically robust community.
Key Infrastructure
Howell’s railroading era left behind significant infrastructure, including the Pere Marquette Depot, built in 1872, and the 1886 Ann Arbor Railroad Depot. The Ann Pere Junction became a key crossing point, featuring an interlocking tower and transfer depot. Supporting structures included a water tower, stockyard, and freight house. While some facilities were demolished, the preserved Ann Arbor Depot now serves as the Howell Depot Museum, showcasing Howell’s rich railroading legacy.
Present-Day Relevance
Today, both the CSX and Great Lakes Central Railroad continue to operate through Howell, utilizing historic rail lines that have served the town for over 150 years. The Ann Pere Junction remains a vital interchange for freight movement, maintaining Howell’s role as a regional rail hub. The Howell Depot Museum continues to educate residents and visitors about the town’s railroading era, preserving the legacy of the iron rails that shaped Howell’s development.
Community Recognition and Events
The Howell Depot Museum hosts annual events that celebrate the town’s railroad history, including open houses, history talks, and train-themed exhibits. The museum’s involvement in local festivals, such as the Howell Melon Festival, integrates train-themed attractions, ensuring that Howell’s railroading legacy remains a living part of the community’s identity.