The Michigan Central Railroad Company was formed in 1846. The line adopted the central of three routes proposed by the State of Michigan across the lower peninsula, hence the line’s name. The mainline ran from Detroit, firm headquarters, through Jackson, Battle Creek, Kalamazoo, Niles and ultimately to Chicago, Illinois. It gained entry to Grand Rapids by purchase of the Grand River Valley Railroad in 1870. The latter had been built in 1869, its route running from Jackson north to Rives Junction then generally northwest through Eaton Rapids, Charlotte, Nashville, Middleville and Caledonia to Grand Rapids.

From its inception, the Michigan Central was controlled by the New York Central Railroad. During the 1930s it was folded administratively into the parent road, ending its unique identity.