One of America's best-preserved 19th-century towns, Marshall grew quickly in the 1830s when early land speculators considered the spot most-likely to be named Michigan's state capital. When that honor went to more centrally-located Lansing, this city (12 miles east of Battle Creek, in south-central Michigan) was left with hundreds of impressive residences, civic buildings, and an ornate Greek Revival governor's mansion - but no governor.

Subsequent booms as a stagecoach stop, railroad center, and patent medicine maker brough more wealth and more Victorian-era buildings. Today, more than 800 Marshall buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places!

The historic homes tour in September is among the city's biggest draws. Year-round, a self-guided walking tour takes visitors past historic (but mostly private) homes and buildings that range from Gothic Revival to Queen Anne.

One exception is the quirky "Honolulu House" (800/877-5163) near Fountain Circle, which dates from 1860 and is now Marshall's historical museum. Built by a former American consul to the Sandwich Islands (a.k.a. Hawaii), the house is decorated with pineapple motifs, elaborate paneling, and topped with a pagoda. Cool!

Nearby streets are filled with antique shops, cafes, and the 1920s-era Bogart Theatre, a great place to catch a flick. Another landmark, Schuler's Restaurant at 115 S. Eagle Street (616/781-0600), has served up thick slabs of prime rib and other potential heart attacks since 1908.

The red brick National House Inn, 102 S. Parkview Street (616/781-7374), was built in 1835 as a stagecoach stop and is the state's oldest surviving inn. Its a great place to spend the night if you don't want to make the drive home, but try to call ahead - its been known to fill up quickly.

Another interesting must-see in Marshall is the American Museum of Magic at 107 E. Michigan Avenue (616/781-7666). With its posters, props and memorabilia it should prove to be unlike any museum you've every visited. And, in nearby Colon, you might be lucky enough to catch the Abbott's Magic Get-Together (616/432-3235), when around 1,000 magicians gather to showcase their talents! Over sixty years old, the "Get-Together" includes workshops and demonstrations by world-famous magicians. Neat!

Though basically an "historic" town, Marshall does have plenty for those not interested in the local houses and architecture. But don't sell them short before you see them! Even if you THINK you won't like viewing these fantastic old mansions, you'll more than likely surprise yourself once you get there; they really are amazing, and they're literally on every corner. Besides that, the drive there is beautiful (especially in the Fall). Enjoy!

Directions:     Though two states away (granted, not big states), Marshall is very easy to find. Just go south out of the Loop on 90/94, follow the Lakeshore, stay on I-94, and you'll go right by it.

The key is to STAY ON I-94 (or, if you take the Skyway, get back on I-94 and don't leave it!). Around St. Joseph the interstate branches, and sometimes its a little bit tricky. Nevertheless, Marshall is an easy destination.

Marshall is about 180 miles from the Loop, which is usually about 3 hours, depending on the traffic and your "need for speed." Michigan, by the way, has stretches of interstate with 75 mph speed limits, so you can make up some time if you get caught in traffic jams getting out of the City. Good luck!

Chamber of Commerce: 800-877-5163