When Escanaba was first platted in 1864, it was anticipated that First Avenue would be the city's primary thoroughfare.
However, as the city grew, Ludington quickly became the primary commercial district, and businesses built along this street.
The initial placement of buildings was scattered around the eastern end of Ludington, but by 1884 the blocks from 2nd through 7th streets were densely populated.
By 1894, the densely developed portion of the commercial district generally extended through 8th Avenue, but scattered commercial frame buildings existed in blocks further west up to 14th Street.
Most of this western section, though, was residential.
By 1906, commercial buildings were infilling lots through to 13th Street.
By this time, industrial and manufacturing companies were moving into the 1700 block, with Richter Brewing Co., the Escanaba Electric Street Railway, and sleigh manufacturer R. P. Linn Company in existence.
By the 1920s, services stations, auto dealerships, and other automotive related businesses appeared along Ludington.
When Escanaba was first platted in 1864, it was anticipated that First Avenue would be the city's primary thoroughfare. However, as the city grew, Ludington quickly became the primary commercial district, and businesses built along this street. The initial placement of buildings was scattered around the eastern end of Ludington, but by 1884 the blocks from 2nd through 7th streets were densely populated. By 1894, the densely developed portion of the commercial district generally extended through 8th Avenue, but scattered commercial frame buildings existed in blocks further west up to 14th Street. Most of this western section, though, was residential. By 1906, commercial buildings were infilling lots through to 13th Street. By this time, industrial and manufacturing companies were moving into the 1700 block, with Richter Brewing Co., the Escanaba Electric Street Railway, and sleigh manufacturer R. P. Linn Company in existence. By the 1920s, services stations, auto dealerships, and other automotive related businesses appeared along Ludington.
Escanaba Central Historic District