| The railroad through Dutton was originally built by
the Grand River Valley Railroad Company and ran from Jackson to Grand Rapids.
In 1870 the GRVR was leased in perpetuity to the Michigan Central Railroad,
which was part of the New York Central "empire". This line was the New York
Central's main line to Grand Rapids, Michigan's second largest city. Passenger
service ended in 1959. The line was abandoned by NYC successor PennCentral
and operated briefly by the Kent, Barry and Eaton Connecting RR, with a state
subsidy. State money ran out and the rails were removed in the
1980's.
For some reason the railroad never got around to tearing
down stations along this line. In the 58 miles between Charlotte and Grand
Rapids, stations remain in Charlotte, Nashville, Hastings, Middleville,
Caledonia, and Dutton.
The building itself probably dates back to the original
construction of the railroad.The depot is now in use as a commercial building.
It is fairly well maintained, but has suffered through several alterations,
including a large addition on the south end. |
