Grand Rapids ‘Sweet House’ Named A Historical Landmark

It's a building you've most likely driven past countless times if you've been Downtown Grand Rapids, a stunning Italianate-inspired building that is opposite something that is not as stunning: a large parking ramp. The Sweet House has been a part of Grand Rapids since it was built in the 1860s.

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In an area of Heritage Hill where so many of the houses are beautiful, the Sweet House stands out. Now it will stand out for another reason, as the Michigan Historical Commission has recognized the house as a historic site, with a shiny new green plaque placed in the lawn detailing the house's historical impact.

History of Martin Sweet, Mayor and Entrepreneur

As the name implies, this is a pretty sweet house. Built by Martin Sweet for himself and his family, Martin Sweet was once the man in Grand Rapids. A prolific businessman, he owned 12 businesses (one of which went on to become the Amway Grand Plaza) and became the wealthiest man in the city. He then went on to become the mayor of Grand Rapids.

History of the Sweet House

After his death, another influential person in Grand Rapids' history moved into the home. Frank and Clara Davis, who went on to found the St. Cecelia Music Society, lived in the house for a short time before it became a boarding home in the 1920s.

However, it was the Women's City Club of Grand Rapids that transformed the home into the historical landmark it is today. After purchasing the home in 1927, the club renovated it and used the property as a clubhouse, even founding the Sweet House Foundation to help offset the renovation and upkeep costs.

After the Club relocated in 2018, it became solely operated by the Sweet House Foundation, which utilizes it as an events center. All the historic art and unique interior design make for an iconic event space, and now an officially recognized historic landmark in the state.