The Coldwater area was first settled on the historic Sauk Trail in the 1830s. Coldwater became a village in 1837, and after the arrival of the railroads in the 1850s, it became a city in 1861. Majestic homes and buildings were constructed, churches and schools were established, and a vibrant community began to take shape. The 1900s brought more growth and challenges, as residents encountered the Great Depression, World War II, and subsequent eras of transition, renewal, and expansion. This book showcases a rare collection of historic images to document Coldwater's progress and development throughout the 20th century.
Known locally as Mr. History, Randall Hazelbaker is Coldwater's unofficial town historian. Active in civic and community life for many years, he is well-known to Coldwaterites. He has researched and hosted several local history programs that have aired on cable television. A longtime collector of Coldwater memorabilia, the images found in this book come from Hazelbaker's extensive personal collection.