Auto Garage Company

As automobiles began to be used more widely shortly after the turn of the 20th Century, communities throughout the United States started to see an influx of sales shops, repair shops, tire shops and gasoline stations constructed in order to service this new mode of transportation. The Manistee community was no different and as it became more apparent that automobiles were here to stay, the area began to see the various offshoot businesses associated with the auto industry. One of the earliest auto garages in Manistee was constructed in 1908 when it was announced that local entrepreneur, John Sibben, would be building a sales and repair shop on the corner of Water and Spruce streets. Called the "American Garage and Motor Company", this large shop was built by well regarded, local masons Hanson & Nelson, and carpenter Gus Peterson. As the years went by, the building changed hands to become known as the "Auto Garage Company" and later became home to various businesses. Despite the change of hands over the years, you can still distinctly make out the building and its classic facade at the corner of Water and Spruce streets.