Dynamic Variation:

Dutch Heritage

Large numbers of Dutch farmers began immigrating to America in the early 19th century, driven by high taxes and low wages. Many settled in the Midwest, especially West Michigan. A wave of Calvinist…

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Take the Black History Tour of Downtown Grand Rapids

To commemorate Black History Month 2017, Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., (DGRI) asked locals to share their stories and knowledge of African-American leadership, culture and community in Grand Rapids. The…

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Historic Cemeteries of Grand Rapids

There are a lot of great ways to explore Grand Rapids history. You can browse the exhibits at the Grand Rapids Public Museum and Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives, stroll the Heritage…

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Maritime History

Its proximity to Lake Michigan means that a trip to Grand Rapids provides you not only with a city experience, but also the opportunity to explore all that the lakeshore has to offer. Beyond beach…

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Historic Homes

The lumber and furniture industries fueled great fortunes in Grand Rapids during the 19th and early 20th centuries - and many of our historic homes reflect the excess of those lavish times. Heritage…

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Bridges

The rivers that criss-cross Grand Rapids and West Michigan were integral to the region's explosive growth in the 19th century - especially after bridges were built to traverse the waters. Here are a…

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Heritage Tour

Explore the rich and varied history of Grand Rapids with a tour of significant sites. Start at Ah-Nab-Awen Park in downtown Grand Rapids. Once the site of a Native American village, this 6.5-acre…

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President Ford & Betty Ford

President Gerald R. Ford wasn’t actually born in Grand Rapids, but since his mother moved here when he was just two weeks old, the city has always claimed him as a native son. Ford never quibbled with…

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