 Mining and lumbering, industries based on the
extraction of natural resources from the land, were the foundation of Michigan's growth
during the 19th century. These natural resources and profits from those industries would
provide the basis of the state's next growth spurt—manufacturing.
Michigan became a national leader in the manufacture of iron and steel products. Grand
Rapids' reputation grew as a furniture-maker. Battle Creek became the home of the
breakfast cereal. Flint, Pontiac and Detroit built carriages. Improving rail and water
transportation systems aided industrial growth.
Visit an exhibit in the Michigan Historical Museum's Growth of Manufacturing gallery:
 The Carriage Makers
Cereal and Consumer Goods
Furniture Cities
Iron and Steel Products
Roads, Rails and Waterways
Go to Kids'
Stuff and Teachers'
Stuff for the Growth of Manufacturing gallery.
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