Local History

Addison J. Comstock (1802-1867) came land looking here in 1825, he acquired 1,100 acres in 1826 when he returned from New York State with fellow settlers and a bride.  

Platted as Logan in 1828, she persuaded him to rename it for her hero in history, the Roman emperor Hadrian.  Mr. Comstock became the first postmaster on March 20, 1828.

Incorporated as a village in 1836 and as a city in 1853.  The township remained named Logan until March 6, 1838, when the legislature renamed it Adrian.

Informational excerpts from Michigan Place Names, by Walter Romig, L.H.D.

Laura Haviland

Laura Haviland was a quiet and gentle woman who devoted her life to helping others.  In 1837 Laura and her husband started a school for orphans on the Raisin River near Adrian.  It was the first Michigan school which accepted black children.

In 1845, disease took the life of Laura's husband and one of their children.  With great effort Laura raised money to keep the school going, care for her six remaining children and pay taxes on their farm.

Not content to assist those who had already managed their escape, Laura actually helped slaves to make their getaway.  Outraged slave owners put up a $3,000 reward for her capture.  This was a huge amount of money then.  Laura was never caught and today there is a statue of her in front of the Adrian City Hall.

Churches

Fellowship Bible Church

Exploring our Heritage through our Ancestors

Summerfield, Gustave, Summerfield Family, Clayton

Golf Courses

Centerview Golf Course

Lenawee Country Club

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