Happy 175th birthday, Grand Rapids!
It was incorporated as a city on April 2, 1850, making this year its dodransbicentennial.
“I've spent the last six or so years really coming to understand and appreciate the long and rich heritage and history of West Michigan and yeah I think that's something that's certainly worth celebrating and at the same time it's worth telling that story to folks who may not know it”
Assistant City Manager Doug Matthews is on the committee planning a year-long celebration with multiple events including a mobile museum exhibit showcasing 175 historical photos.
An official birthday party is scheduled for Saturday, June 7 at Rosa Parks Circle.
But leaders want residents and business owners to mark the anniversary in their own creative ways.
“To organize their own activities, you know if a restaurant wants to celebrate in some way. I don't know that somebody that works for the city is in the best position to tell them how to do that so we want to arm them with the tools and invite them to find ways that they can create a place to celebrate as well.”
A 175th anniversary logo has been unveiled that the city is encouraging residents and businesses to use for events, merchandise, contests and promotions.
The logo, city history and a calendar of events can be found at www.175GR.com .
