Houghton was born in Troy, New York on September 21, 1809. He was educated as a physician at the Rensselaer Institute and graduated in 1829. The following year, he was appointed Assistant Professor of Chemistry and Natural History at the Institute. While serving in that position, he came to Detroit to deliver a series of lectures on scientific subjects.

In 1831, he was appointed surgeon and botanist to the expedition sent out by the federal government to explore the sources of the Mississippi River. On his return from the expedition, he settled in Detroit, where he practiced as a physician.

On September 10, 1833, Houghton married his childhood sweetheart Harriet Stevens in Fredonia, New York. They established their home in Detroit at 19 Wayne Street. Over the next few years they had four children.

Houghton was elected President of Detroit’s Young Men’s Society in 1833. In 1837, he was appointed the State Geologist for Michigan, a position he held until his death. He did much to develop the natural resources of the state. Houghton was instrumental in attracting influential backers for the development of Michigan’s wealth of natural resources. He also served as a professor at the University of Michigan.

He was a member of the National Institute in Washington, the Boston Society of Natural History, and an honorary member of the Royal Antiquarian Society of Copenhagen and many other scientific and literary associations. Houghton was elected Mayor of Detroit and served in 1842 and 1843.

Houghton was drowned in Lake Superior, near the mouth of Eagle River, during a violent storm, on October 13, 1845. His body was recovered in May of the following year. He was returned to Detroit and buried in Elmwood Cemetery. His death was deemed a great public loss.

Michigan’s Houghton County was named as a tribute to this explorer, geologist, doctor, educator and leader.  

Born: September 21, 1809
Died: October 13, 1845
Buried: Section L, Lot 5