Columbiaville and its Classic 1893 Depot: Lapeer County
Columbiaville in Lapeer County had its origin in 1847 when Levi Cutting from Columbia County, New York became the area’s first settler. In 1848 he and Henry Niver built a sawmill with the new town being named “Niverville”.
They were followed by another friend from New York, William Peter, who came to work at the sawmill. A smart businessman, Peter acquired all the mill’s property and expanded. His expansions paved the way for more businesses until finally in 1857, a post office was necessary, and was given the name ‘Columbiaville’.
Before Columbiaville was incorporated as a village in 1879, a depot was constructed in 1872. It was an okay structure but by 1893 a new one was required. The depot that still stands on 1st Street is an impressive Romanesque architectural accomplishment.
After being given to the Detroit-Bay City Railroad company in exchange for railroad tracks, the town grew thanks to the train line.
The depot had a good run, serving Columbiaville until 1964.
It has been preserved and is now a public library as well as Rotary Club headquarters.