Northville is a city full of unique historic attractions and sites that reflect the vibrant city culture. The 2018 Northville Local Historic District Study report sheds light on some of the most standout local pieces, such as 324 East Main St., 120-124 East Main Street, and 218 West Dunlap St., all of which inspired both awe and admiration.
324 East Main St.: An Asymmetrical 1937 Tudor-Style Home
Northville is a city with a rich history, evident in the 248 contributing buildings listed in the 2018 Northville Local Historic District Study report. Examples of these are commercial and private residences, including 324 East Main St., a 1937 Tudor-style home with an asymmetrical design, prominent cross gable, decorative brick, and a huge bay window. Originally owned by husband-and-wife doctors Harold and Irene Sparling, it has since been converted into Corriveau Law.
A History of the Coonley Block
This landmark building at 120-124 East Main Street is a proud testament to Northville’s storied past. Home to both Browndog Creamery and Le George Restaurant, the building was originally owned by Northville pioneer Daniel Cady in the 1880s. An 1874 sign on the building suggests that it may have been erected around that time.
Historically known as Coonley Block, this large storefront has been home to various businesses over the years, from hardware stores to clothing boutiques to billiard shops. In 1893, even the entire first floor was devoted to a grocery store. It is truly remarkable to see how this building has withstood the test of time.
The Frank Clark Residence
The Frank Clark Residence is an exquisite example of shingle-style architecture. The wooden shingles and the asymmetrical facades demonstrate the fine craftsmanship that went into its construction. Built between 1884 and 1890, this two-story residence was constructed by Frank Clark, the son of Nelson Clark who moved his fish hatchery from Clarkston to Northville in 1874. This hatchery became the only federal fish hatchery in Michigan, a feat of which the Clark family can be proud. Even the garage, built in 1975, has been designed to match the original look of the home.
Notable Houses on Linden Street
Two houses on Linden Street built in 1923 are notable examples of popular architectural styles of the time. The house at 217 Linden Street is an American Foursquare style that was prevalent from the late 1890s to the 1920s. It features a rectangular footprint, front porches, and symmetrical facades. At 223 Linden Street stands a Craftsman-style bungalow with a stucco exterior, pitched roofs, wide eave overhangs, and sloped columns. Despite not knowing the original owners of 217 Linden Street, Joseph Bolton and his wife Helen were recorded as living there in 1931. In the 1970s, Terry Danol, funeral director for Casterline Funeral Home, moved in. Similarly, Roy Clark, a letter carrier, and his wife Ethel lived at 223 Linden Street in 1931. These two houses serve as a reminder of the unique architecture of the period.
Built Circa 1893-1894
This impressive Queen Anne-style house, located at 117 North Wing St., was built circa 1893-1894. It is a testament to the creativity of the era with its different types of shingle siding, modest ornamentation, and cross-gable roof. Dr. August Holcomb, a prominent physician who used part of the building as an office, lived here for about 70 years and it has remained in his family ever since. This wonderful house is currently being used commercially and is a reminder of a bygone era.
History of 204 Randolph St.
Nestled in the quaint town of Northville sits 204 Randolph St., a stunning Greek Revival-style house built in 1843. This building is well-preserved, having been passed through several generations of early settlers, including Alvah Smith and John and Betsey Miller. It was once home to the Northville Academy, a private school led by Sylvester Cochrane that ran until the late 1860s. Asa Randolph eventually made the building his residence, but not before removing the iconic cupola. Its symmetry, columns, and entryway with sidelights showcase its remarkable Greek Revival architecture, making it an impressive sight.
These examples demonstrate that Northville holds a unique historic charm that is carefully preserved and refurbished over generations. The structures still standing today make up the distinctive character of the city and evoke its long relationship with industry and community-building activities. Indeed, Northville’s historical sites provide an inspiring look into its past — a snapshot of how the city has evolved its growth and identity, creating bridges between heritage and modernity. This valuable connection to the city’s origins gives vibrancy and authenticity to Northville that couldn’t be replicated in any other way.
