Flat Rock

Located between Monroe and Detroit in Michigan, Flat Rock's history begins with the Wyandot, Huron, and Seneca Indians who once hunted and fished along the Huron River. Founded in 1823 by Michael Vreelandt, the area started to grow and prosper when settlers discovered the fertile lands and waterpower of the Huron River. The power of the river attracted settlers to build and operate two sawmills, a flour mill, and a blacksmith shop. When Pres. Abraham Lincoln called for volunteers to join the Civil War, many men from Flat Rock enlisted under Walter H. Wallace's encouragement. The largest number of volunteers came from Michigan, and that state suffered the largest number of wounded at the Battle of Gettysburg. Discover the town's story through these archival images from the Flat Rock Historical Society, showcasing the businesses, churches, community, and people whose hard work helped the city to prosper.