Linden originated in the 1830s when settlers began building mills along the Shiawassee River. Other industries soon followed, and the city became a regional center for buggy and barrel manufacturing, cement production, and foundry work. A post office was established in 1850, followed by a railroad stop in 1857, and these events spurred Linden's growth. Most of the city's downtown buildings date from between 1850 and 1925 and reflect Greek Revival, Italianate, Queen Anne, Collegiate Gothic, and Art Moderne architectural styles. Linden's downtown, known as the Bridge Street - Broad Street Historic District, was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.