Doster Elevator Emporium

The town that had two names (Doster & Brouard), saddled two counties and townships, was settled around 1837. It eventually became Doster. With the Cincinnati, Jackson & Mackinaw Railroad going through, Doster began to take shape. A post office, hardware, grocery store and sawmill were built. Around 1896, George Julias Doster built Doster Lumber, which ran until 2000. Doster still has the church/schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, grocery store, two centennial farms and the elevator. Built in 1912, the Doster Elevator ran as the Doster Farm Bureau Exchange until 1945. Much of the original equipment is still in the elevator, which is nestled along the railroad bed. The railroad delivered grain, coal, farm equipment, livestock and lumber -- working in conjunction with the sawmill and lumber yard. Along with the freight train, there was a third rail electric train for passengers. Currently, the Elevator offers a glimpse back in time, where you can shop for local art, vintage collectables and gift items. Trails traverse along the old rail bed, where wildlife and nature abound. The grounds are also open for special events. Open Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from Noon to 4pm (other times by appointment).