Ribbon Cutting: Ferry Street Memorial Park

The City of Niles, Greater Niles Chamber and Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber invites you to celebrate the opening of Ferry Street School Park on Thursday, August 27 from 4:00-5:30PM. Remarks will begin at 4:30PM

 The park was created from the building’s only remaining façade after a devastating fire in May of 2023. The project brings together public and private funds, including a grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation which was matched with local funds through the Patronicity crowdfunding platform.

Ferry Street School was built in 1867 as the “Colored School.” When schools integrated a few years later, the school served all the children in the Ferry Street neighborhood. A west wing added in 1903 provided relief for Niles' growing school population. Among the students served here were Exceptional Children whose special needs received the required attention in this smaller setting. Ferry Street School was also a beloved community gathering place. Famed activist Sojourner Truth spoke here in 1873. 

After the school closed in 1975, a group of citizens, recognizing the school's historical significance, restored the building. Ferry Street School was designated a Michigan State Historic Site.  The Niles History Center began offering programs for children to experience a one-room schoolhouse setting and discover how local citizens fought for educational opportunities. The Ferry Street Resource Center started operating from the building in 2005, providing connections to education, employment and social services. After the fire, the Resource Center reopened across the street from their former site, remaining connected to the neighborhood.

We hope that you will join us to remember this historic place and celebrate its new beginning.