Step back in time to explore the early foundation of West Michigan in this captivating two-session local history course. We begin with the spiritual history of the community, mapping the rapid evolution of early Grand Rapids churches from the initial settlement through 1850. Participants will follow the fascinating journey of local congregations as they moved from humble riverbank gatherings and rustic log cabins to small wooden buildings and, ultimately, magnificent historic churches. We shift our second week to celebrating the upcoming 200th anniversary of Louis Campau's arrival along the Grand River in November 1826. You will discover the extraordinary life of Grand Rapids' beloved "first citizen"—from his early days as a frontier fur trader and founder of Saginaw to becoming the first white settler in Grand Rapids. We will trace how his visionary land purchases formed today's downtown business section and how his relentless promotion drove the city's growth.  

Subject: history

Carol Dodge worked in the insurance industry for over 35 years, is one of the founding members of the Sweet House Foundation, served as Women’s City Club president from 2005-2007, and continues in her role as the historian for the Women’s City Club and the Sweet House Foundation. She enjoys conducting tours of the Sweet House, speaking to organizations, and writing articles. She has taught three previous Grand Rapids history courses for the CALL program.