[1] Plans by architect James Anderson were complete in 1861, but construction was delayed because of restrictions for building materials during the Civil War.

It survived many other attempts to demolish it, but its fate was sealed after the City-County Building was constructed as the city and county's new seat of government in 1955.

The building took 10 years to complete, mostly due to restrictions of material during the Civil War, but much had to do with city politicians fighting over the bids and contracts.

The building featured sculptures, commissioned by city resident and Michigan pioneer Bela Hubbard,[3] of Fr.

Jacques Marquette and the Sieur de La Salle created by Julius T. Melchers and John Donaldson.

[1] The clock tower itself featured four, 14-foot stone maidens on its cornice representing justice, industry, art and commerce.