Early Taylor

While the City of Taylor turned 40 years old in 2008, the community’s rich heritage dates back to the 1800s. The first registered property owner was Peter Coan, who purchased an 80-acre parcel from the United States government in 1830. The Coan family name continues through Coan Lake, which centers on the historical area in Heritage Park.

Originally, Taylor was part of Ecorse Township, but residents found that they lived too far away to participate in the civic affairs and functions of the township. Because of this, the residents petitioned to form a separate community. The petition was granted in 1847 and the new community was named Taylor Township, in honor of General Zachary Taylor, an American hero in the Mexican War who would go on to become President of the United States.

Largely an agricultural community, Taylor Township grew steadily over the years, particularly after the opening of the Ford Rouge Plant in neighboring Dearborn. In May 1968, Taylor Township residents voted to adopt the charter which incorporated the City of Taylor.