Attractions

A guide to a walking tour of historic downtown buildings is available through Preservation Chelsea at 475–7396 (ask for John Frank). Be sure to see the interior dome of the courthouse, 122 S. Main, and the stained-glass windows at the First Congregational Church, 121 E. Middle.

The beautifully restored Chelsea Depot, 125 Jackson St., is used for concerts and private gatherings. To book, call Tammi Crowder at 433–9780.

The Chelsea Historical Museum has moved from the Depot to the Gourmet Chocolate Cafe, 312 N. Main. To schedule a guided tour, call Kathy Clark, 475–7047. chelseamuseum@yahoo.com, www.geocities.com/chelseamuseum

Chelsea’s most visible landmark, the Clock Tower, was built a century ago as a water tower by the Glazier Stove Company. Converted into offices and retail space, it’s the home of the Chelsea Teddy Bear Company (see Shopping, below).

Across the street is the home of one of the nation’s most resilient family companies. In 1878 the Chelsea Milling Company began milling wheat and corn from surrounding farms. In 1930 it introduced Jiffy biscuit mix, the first of its present line of 22 mixes. Tours by reservation Mon.–Fri. (475–1361).

McKune Memorial Library, 221 S. Main. 475–8732. A recent addition has greatly expanded this regional library while highlighting its original location in one of Chelsea’s historic homes. Books, talking books, CDs, videos, magazines, Internet access, and CD-ROM stations. Year-round adult and youth programs and classes, weekly children’s programs. Mon.–Thurs. 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 1–5 p.m. (mid-June—Labor Day: Mon.–Thurs. 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Fri. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Sun. 1–5 p.m.). www.chelsea.lib.mi.us

Oak Grove Cemetery, Middle at Madison, is the burial ground for many of Chelsea’s first families and an inviting place for a contemplative walk.

Purple Rose Theatre draws crowds to town for new plays (see Arts, below).

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