In 1984, the City of Hart designated a former agricutural processing area as a Historic District.  Agricultural processing at this site dates back to the late 1800s and several native buildings are still preserved there.  In 1990, the City of Hart saved an area historic church from demolition by moving it to the District and more historic buildings followed to avoid demolition.  Hart City eventually took ownership of the entire site.  Out of this effort the Hart Heritage Preservation Group, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, was formed to operate and maintain the District on behalf of Hart City.  In 2005, Hart City formally leased the District to the Hart Heritage Preservation Group.  This effort has resulted in very high quality historic collections being donated or loaned to the District.  The Preservation Group has a large and experienced volunteer base that plans events, operates the District, and makes many improvements.  

Update 1-30-2013:  This partnership continues in 2013.  In September, 2012, Hart City and the Preservation Group completed the relocation of the 1880s railroad depot to the Historic District.  Other interior improvements were made to accommodate many new visitors to the buildings and exhibits.

Update 1-30-2014:  In September 2013, Hart City and Preservation Group collaborated with a Grand Valley State University (GVSU) video communications class to produce a 7-minute promotional video about Hart and the Historic District.  The City thanks Professor Suzanne Zack and student producer Brian Gotberg and his team for this great effort that has been very well received by the community.  The video link is available on the City website:  www.ci.hart.mi.us

Update 1-30-2014:  In late 2013, the City approved a restructuring program designed to sustain the District into the future which included the hiring of a part-time District manager, restructuring finances, and more City oversight of operations.