The Michigan Central Railroad came to Kalamazoo in 1846 with a connection to Detroit. The line was continued to Chicago in 1852. With links to 2 major cities, Kalamazoo was in an excellent position for success.

This Romanesque building, designed by Cyrus W.L. Eidlitz, was completed in 1887 as the MCRR's 3rd station in Kalamazoo. Today it is served by Amtrak.