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Three Oaks, Michigan

Three Oaks is a village in Three Oaks Township, Berrien County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,370 at the 2020 census.

The village of Three Oaks is located in the southwest corner of Michigan, just 5 miles from the shores of Lake Michigan and within 2 miles of the Indiana border along US 12.

History
The village was first settled by Henry Chamberlain in 1850 and became a village in 1867. The village was originally called Chamberlain's Siding but was changed to Three Oaks. These oak trees were a guidepoint for train engineers. None of the original three oak trees remain today; the last was cut down nearly 100 years ago.

Three Oaks' hometown pride is evident during its Flag Day Celebration in June. The celebration and Flag Day Parade is the largest in the country.

"Apple Cider Century" is a bicycle ride of 15, 25, 37, 50, 62, 75 or 100 miles around Three Oaks. It was started by the Three Oaks Spokes Bicycle Club in 1974. More than 6,000 riders take part annually. It is held on the last Sunday of September.

Three Oaks celebrated the centennial of receiving the Dewey Cannon at the village's Flag Day Festival (June 9–11, 2000). A historical marker at Dewey Cannon Park in Three Oaks relates: "This cannon, captured in the Spanish–American War by Admiral Dewey, was presented to Three Oaks when its citizens raised fourteen hundred dollars for a memorial to the men of the battleship Maine. This was the largest contribution, per capita, of any community in the nation. 'Three Oaks Against the World', a local paper proudly boasted. This park was dedicated October 17, 1899, by President William McKinley, and others. Presentation of the cannon took place on June 28, 1900. Guest of honor was Helen Miller Gould, called the Spanish–American War's 'Florence Nightingale'. Thousands of people were in attendance on each occasion." The Dewey Cannon, which remains on display in the park of the same name, bears the engraved monogram of Queen Isabella II of Spain.

The Christmas movie Prancer, released in 1989, was filmed on location largely in the village of Three Oaks (other locations in nearby LaPorte, Indiana, were also used). A sequel, Prancer Returns, was made in 2001 (filming location Uxbridge, Ontario), in which a boy comes to Three Oaks to learn about the "Prancer incident".

Three Oaks is also home to the Warren Featherbone Factory, which was built over a century ago by Edward Kirk Warren to strip turkey feathers of their quills to use in women's garments of the era, such as corsets, which used "stiffeners". This replacement for the "whalebone" material was welcomed by the garment industry of the late 19th century. The factory still stands today and houses the Journeyman Distillery, Acorn Theater, and Featherbone Factory.

A financial crisis occurred in 2008, after the village proceeded with a $350,000 five block street project. This and other expenses over the previous four years left Three Oaks a deficit of about $600,000 (about a one-year budget) by April 2008. The Village President, the Clerk, and a councilman resigned while two councilmen did not seek re-election. On November 4, 2008, a new slate of village councilors were voted into office. The village faced bankruptcy in early December 2008 due to fiscal mismanagement and the State of Michigan took over financial management of the village with the appointment of a financial manager. The state of Michigan appointed Emergency Financial Manager Pam Amato effective December 17, 2008, to take over village operations and guide the newly elected Council through development of a five-year deficit elimination plan. On April 29, 2009, the EFM laid off every officer except the chief of police. The laid off officers were brought back around 2 weeks later. The village was given a recommendation to disband its Downtown Development Authority, after an audit showed receipt of excess funds that should have gone to the school district. Amato ended work as the emergency manager on December 4, 2009. On February 10, 2010, the Village of Three Oaks hired Patrick Yoder to serve as the first Village Manager.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 0.99 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,622 people, 678 households, and 422 families living in the village. The population density was 1638.4 PD/sqmi. There were 797 housing units at an average density of 805.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 93.2% White, 1.1% African American, 1.4% Native American, 0.6% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 1.7% from other races, and 1.8% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.4% of the population.

There were 678 households, of which 31.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.5% were married couples living together, 14.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.6% had a male householder with no wife present, and 37.8% were non-families. 31.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.39 and the average family size was 3.01.

The median age in the village was 39.3 years. 24.4% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 25.6% were from 25 to 44; 28.5% were from 45 to 64; and 13.4% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 48.6% male and 51.4% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,829 people, 741 households, and 486 families living in the village. The population density was 1,861.4 PD/sqmi. There were 800 housing units at an average density of 814.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 96.34% White, 0.93% African American, 0.77% Native American, 0.11% Asian, 0.66% from other races, and 1.20% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.86% of the population.

There were 741 households, out of which 34.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.8% were married couples living together, 13.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.3% were non-families. 29.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.47 and the average family size was 3.05.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 27.4% under the age of 18, 9.2% from 18 to 24, 29.4% from 25 to 44, 21.9% from 45 to 64, and 12.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 96.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.5 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $34,120, and the median income for a family was $41,146. Males had a median income of $31,923 versus $20,875 for females. The per capita income for the village was $16,361. About 8.5% of families and 11.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.3% of those under age 18 and 7.7% of those age 65 or over.

Media
Three Oaks was the fictional setting of the soap opera, Young Doctor Malone, on radio and television from 1939 to 1960. Three Oaks was the setting of the 1989 film Prancer and town scenes and exteriors were shot there.

Notable people

 * Al Benson, radio DJ
 * Henry Chamberlain, member of the Michigan House of Representatives
 * Kim Clark, stage director and political candidate
 * Frederic G. Donner, former Chairman and CEO of General Motors
 * Robert Hellenga, novelist and short story writer
 * Ron Jelinek, member of the Michigan Legislature
 * Carlos T. Mock, physician, activist, and journalist
 * Elton Rynearson, athlete and coach
 * Joe Savoldi, professional wrestler, football player, and spy
 * Edward Kirk Warren, industrialist and inventor
 * Donald S. Whitehead, two-time lieutenant governor of Idaho

title: Three Oaks, Michigan


text:
Three Oaks Township, Michigan

Three Oaks Township is a civil township of Berrien County in the U.S. state of Michigan on the border with the state of Indiana. The population was 2,324 at the 2020 census.

The village of Three Oaks is the only incorporated community within the township.

US 12 crosses east–west through the township. The South Branch Galien River flows through the western part of the township.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 60.8 km2, of which 60.3 km2 is land and 0.5 km2, or 0.79%, is water.

Demographics
At the 2000 census there were 2,949 people, 1,181 households, and 816 families in the township. The population density was 126.1 PD/sqmi. There were 1,284 housing units at an average density of 54.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 96.81% White, 0.88% African American, 0.47% Native American, 0.10% Asian, 0.41% from other races, and 1.32% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.63%.

Of the 1,181 households, 31.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.6% were married couples living together, 11.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.9% were non-families. 26.1% of households were one person, and 11.2% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.50 and the average family size was 3.02.

In the township the population was spread out, with 25.6% under the age of 18, 8.3% from 18 to 24, 27.8% from 25 to 44, 24.3% from 45 to 64, and 14.0% 65 or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 93.2 males.

The median household income was $36,989 and the median family income was $45,302. Males had a median income of $31,908 versus $21,745 for females. The per capita income for the township was $17,901. About 7.1% of families and 9.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.3% of those under age 18 and 3.9% of those age 65 or over.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Three Oaks Township, Michigan


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Bellingwedde

Bellingwedde was a municipality in the province Groningen in the northeast of the Netherlands. Bellingwedde was established in 1968, when the municipalities of Bellingwolde and Wedde merged. After almost 50 years, Bellingwedde was disestablished in 2018, when the municipalities of Bellingwedde and Vlagtwedde merged into Westerwolde.

Etymology
The name Bellingwedde is a portmanteau of Bellingwolde and Wedde, which are the names of the two municipalities that were merged in 1968 to form Bellingwedde. At the time, three names were considered for the new municipality: Bellingewedde, proposed by the province of Groningen, Bellingwolde-Wedde, proposed by the municipal council of Bellingwolde, and Bellingwedde, proposed by the municipal council of Wedde. The province selected the last option, which was eventually also accepted by the municipal council of Bellingwolde.

History
On 1 September 1968, the municipality of Bellingwedde was formed by merging the municipalities of Bellingwolde and Wedde.

Henk Eijsink of the Labour Party, who was the last mayor of Bellingwolde and acting mayor of Wedde, became the first mayor of Bellingwedde in 1968–1970. He was followed by Jurjen Jan Hoeksema (Labour; 1970–1978), Engbert Drenth (Labour; 1979–2007), Erik Triemstra (Christian Democratic Appeal; 2007–2013) and Janneke Snijder-Hazelhoff (People's Party for Freedom and Democracy; 2013–2018).

The municipality merged with Vlagtwedde into the new municipality of Westerwolde on 1 January 2018.

Geography

Bellingwedde is located at 53.11667°N, 7.15°W in the east of the province of Groningen, in the northeast of the Netherlands on the border with Germany. It is in the south of the region of Oldambt and in the north of the region of Westerwolde.

Bellingwedde is bordered by the Dutch municipalities of Oldambt (in the north), Pekela (west), Stadskanaal (south-west), and Vlagtwedde (south), and by the German municipalities of Rhede (south-east) and Bunde (north-east). The nearest city is Winschoten.

The municipality contains the villages Bellingwolde, Blijham, Oudeschans, Veelerveen, Vriescheloo, and Wedde. It also contains the hamlets Den Ham, Klein-Ulsda, Rhederbrug, and Wedderveer.

The north border of Bellingwedde follows the river Pekel Aa. The river Westerwoldse Aa crosses the east of Bellingwedde from south to north. The canal B.L. Tijdenskanaal, that unites the Mussel-Aa-kanaal and the Ruiten-Aa-kanaal in the south, crosses the west of Bellingwedde from south to north.

Governance
The municipal building is located at the Hoofdweg in Wedde.

A municipal government in the Netherlands consists of the executive college of the mayor and aldermen and the elected municipal council.

Janneke Snijder-Hazelhoff of the People's Party for Freedom and Democracy, appointed in 2013, was the last mayor of Bellingwedde.

The municipal council had 13 members. In the 2014 election, the last prior to merger, turnout was 57.57% with 4,191 valid votes. The results are shown in the table below: A coalition was formed between the Labour Party (PvdA), the Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA), and the People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD). All three parties had one alderman in the college of mayor and aldermen. Although the Socialist Party got the most votes, it is not part of the coalition.

!colspan="2" align="left"|Party !Votes !% !Seats !colspan="2" align="left"|Total !4,191 !100 !align="center"|13
 * -style="background:#E9E9E9;"
 * bgcolor=""|
 * align="left"| Socialist Party
 * 1,116
 * 26.63
 * align="center"| 3
 * bgcolor=""|
 * align="left"| Labour Party
 * 853
 * 20.35
 * align="center"| 3
 * bgcolor=""|
 * align="left"|Christian Democratic Appeal
 * 572
 * 13.65
 * align="center"| 2
 * bgcolor=""|
 * align="left"|People's Party for Freedom and Democracy
 * 531
 * 12.67
 * align="center"| 2
 * bgcolor=""|
 * align="left"| GreenLeft
 * 493
 * 11.76
 * align="center"| 1
 * align="left"| Plaatselijk Belang Bellingwedde
 * 355
 * 8.47
 * align="center"| 1
 * align="left"| Westerwolde Lokaal
 * 271
 * 6.47
 * align="center"| 1
 * -style="background:#E9E9E9;"
 * 8.47
 * align="center"| 1
 * align="left"| Westerwolde Lokaal
 * 271
 * 6.47
 * align="center"| 1
 * -style="background:#E9E9E9;"
 * align="center"| 1
 * -style="background:#E9E9E9;"
 * -style="background:#E9E9E9;"
 * }

Bellingwedde was twinned with Rhede in Germany in 1979 and Nowogród Bobrzański in Poland in 2004.

Demographics
Since 1968, when the municipality was established, Bellingwedde had a population between 8,561 and 9,748. In 2015, it had a population of 9,154 and a population density of 84 /km2.

Attractions

Two villages have a state protected village area (beschermd dorpsgezicht), Oudeschans since 1991 and Bellingwolde since 2009.

There are two museums in Bellingwedde. Museum de Oude Wolden in Bellingwolde is a regional museum about the art and history of Oldambt and Westerwolde. It has temporary exhibitions and a permanent exhibition with paintings of Lodewijk Bruckman from the municipal collection of Bellingwedde. Vestingmuseum Oudeschans in Oudeschans is a history museum about the fortification of Oudeschans. It has a collection of archaeological findings from the 17th and 18th century on display.

There are five windmills in the municipality: De Korenbloem in Vriescheloo, Niemans Molen in Veelerveen, Spinnenkop Wedderveer in Wedderveer, Veldkamps Meuln in Bellingwolde, and Weddermarke in Wedde.

The Wedderborg is a borg, a type of castle from the province of Groningen, in Wedde. The building has 14th, 15th, and 16th-century elements and is currently used as a hotel and restaurant.

Roads

There are no highways in Bellingwedde. The nearest highway is the A7 (E22) directly north of the municipality and which is connected to Groningen in the west and Leer (Germany) in the east; its nearest access point is exit 48 (Oudeschans).

There are four provincial roads in the municipality. In the northwest, the N367 connects the municipality to Winschoten and Oude and Nieuwe Pekela. The N368 runs from northwest to southwest, connects Blijham via Wedde to Vlagtwedde, and also connects to the other three major roads. The N969 runs from west to southeast and connects Blijham via Bellingwolde and Rhederbrug to Rhede in Germany. And the N973 runs from southwest to the center and connects Wedde via Vriescheloo to Bellingwolde.

Public transport
There are also no railways in Bellingwedde. The nearest railway stations are Winschoten and Bad Nieuweschans on the Harlingen–Nieuweschans railway just north of Bellingwedde. The railway is connected to the Groningen railway station and the rest of the Dutch railway network in the west and to the Leer railway station and the German railway network in the east.

The bus lines passing through Bellingwedde are exploited by Qbuzz (places in Bellingwedde are in italics):
 * Line 11: Winschoten – Blijham – Wedderveer – Wedde – Veele – Vlagtwedde – Bourtange
 * Line 12: Winschoten – Blijham – Bellingwolde – Blijham – Winschoten
 * Line 14: Stadskanaal – Alteveer – Tange – Onstwedde – Barlage – Smeerling – Vlagtwedde – Veele – Wedde – Wedderveer – Blijham – Winschoten
 * Line 811: Bad Nieuweschans – Klein-Ulsda – Oudeschans – Bellingwolde – Vriescheloo – Veelerveen – Vlagtwedde

Education
There are four preschools, seven primary schools, and one secondary school in Bellingwedde. There are no institutes of tertiary education in the municipality.

Media
Het Streekblad is a free door-to-door weekly newspaper in the municipalities of Bellingwedde, Oldambt, and Pekela. Dagblad van het Noorden is a daily newspaper in the northern provinces of the Netherlands.

Radio Westerwolde is a radio channel in the municipalities of Bellingwedde, Pekela, and Vlagtwedde.

Notable people

 * Jan Mulder (born 1945 in Bellingwolde), footballer, writer, and commentator

title: Bellingwedde


text:
Watervliet, Michigan

Watervliet is a city in Berrien County in the U.S. state of Michigan. Located in the northeastern part of the county, the population was 1,669 at the 2020 census. Mostly a rural farming community. The city is surrounded by Watervliet Charter Township but is administered autonomously. “Watervliet” means “flowing water” in Dutch, coming from “water” and “vliet” "Vliet" is a Dutch word for a minor streaming water, though it may refer to a city canal or a river that connects such flows.

History
In 1905, John Olsen and Maud Nelson moved here where they established a women's baseball team. Both of them had experience in the game. The "Cherokee Indian Baseball Team" set out in its Pullman car in the same year complete with an electric light facility, a grand stand and a 12 by 1200 foot fence. Nelson who was born in Italy was on the team. She was billed by her husband, Olsen, as the undisputed women's champion pitcher of the world.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.23 sqmi, of which 1.19 sqmi is land and 0.04 sqmi is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,735 people, 677 households, and 448 families living in the city. The population density was 1458.0 PD/sqmi. There were 752 housing units at an average density of 631.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.3% White, 1.0% African American, 0.8% Native American, 0.2% Asian, 1.0% from other races, and 2.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.9% of the population.

There were 677 households, of which 38.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.7% were married couples living together, 14.8% had a female householder with no husband present, 7.7% had a male householder with no wife present, and 33.8% were non-families. 28.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.55 and the average family size was 3.11.

The median age in the city was 35.8 years. 27.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 26.1% were from 25 to 44; 26.2% were from 45 to 64; and 11.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.9% male and 52.1% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,843 people, 719 households, and 473 families living in the city. The population density was 1,495.9 PD/sqmi. There were 760 housing units at an average density of 616.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.40% White, 0.33% African American, 0.22% Native American, 0.49% Asian, 0.38% from other races, and 1.19% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.09% of the population.

There were 719 households, out of which 36.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 44.6% were married couples living together, 15.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.2% were non-families. 28.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.55 and the average family size was 3.09.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 29.0% under the age of 18, 8.0% from 18 to 24, 30.3% from 25 to 44, 19.2% from 45 to 64, and 13.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 88.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.6 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $38,681, and the median income for a family was $42,391. Males had a median income of $37,500 versus $21,250 for females. The per capita income for the city was $16,691. About 3.8% of families and 6.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 6.9% of those under age 18 and 11.5% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Watervliet is home to six schools and the Watervliet School District. The six schools are as follows:
 * Watervliet High School
 * South Elementary School
 * North Elementary School
 * Watervliet Middle School
 * St. Joseph Catholic School (Closed in 2015)
 * Grace Christian School

title: Watervliet, Michigan


text:
Watervliet Township, Michigan

Watervliet Charter Township is a charter township of Berrien County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 3,036 at the 2020 census.

Communities
The township surrounds the city of Watervliet, but the two are administered autonomously. The township also contains a portion of the Paw Paw Lake community.

History
The township originally included the area of Coloma Township, which separated in 1917.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, Watervliet Township has a total area of 14.49 sqmi, of which 13.47 sqmi is land and 1.02 sqmi (7.04%) is water.

The largest water body in the township is Paw Paw Lake, shared with Coloma Township. The census-designated place of Paw Paw Lake consists of housing developments that surround the lake with both townships.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 3,392 people, 1,348 households, and 939 families residing in the township. The population density was 248.7 PD/sqmi. There were 1,724 housing units at an average density of 126.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 93.66% White, 1.71% African American, 0.88% Native American, 0.32% Asian, 2.27% from other races, and 1.15% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.22% of the population.

There were 1,348 households, out of which 30.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.9% were married couples living together, 11.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.3% were non-families. 25.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.46 and the average family size was 2.93.

In the township the population was spread out, with 25.6% under the age of 18, 8.5% from 18 to 24, 27.2% from 25 to 44, 24.5% from 45 to 64, and 14.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.8 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $39,152, and the median income for a family was $45,709. Males had a median income of $35,842 versus $22,500 for females. The per capita income for the township was $22,134. About 7.8% of families and 10.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 12.0% of those under age 18 and 9.6% of those age 65 or over.

title: Watervliet Township, Michigan


text:
Weesaw Township, Michigan

Weesaw Township is a civil township of Berrien County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,832 at the 2020 census. The township was organized in 1837, and was named after Weesaw, a local Potawatomi chief.

Communities

 * New Troy is an unincorporated community and census-designated place located on the east branch of the Galien River between sections 7 and 8 of the township. It is at 41.87639°N, -86.54972°W. The ZIP code is 49119, and the FIPS place code is 57660.
 * Glendora is an unincorporated community at 41.885°N, -86.48694°W in sections 2, 3, 10, and 11 of the township, about 10 mi northwest of Niles and 15 mi south of St. Joseph. About 6 miles (9 km) south of Baroda. 9 miles (14 km) northwest of Buchanan. The ZIP code is 49107, and the FIPS place code is 32440. It was founded in 1890 and had a post office from 1891 until 1966. The name "Glendora" was assigned by railroad officials.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 92.2 km2, of which 91.8 km2 is land and 0.4 km2, or 0.44%, is water..

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,065 people, 798 households, and 589 families residing in the township. The population density was 58.1 PD/sqmi. There were 886 housing units at an average density of 24.9 per square mile (9.6/km$2$). The racial makeup of the township was 94.72% White, 0.10% African American, 0.48% Native American, 0.24% Asian, 3.39% from other races, and 1.07% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.02% of the population.

There were 798 households, out of which 29.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.7% were married couples living together, 7.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.1% were non-families. 21.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.56 and the average family size was 2.95.

In the township the population was spread out, with 23.9% under the age of 18, 7.5% from 18 to 24, 29.6% from 25 to 44, 25.5% from 45 to 64, and 13.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 103.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 104.6 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $41,434, and the median income for a family was $45,511. Males had a median income of $34,625 versus $22,083 for females. The per capita income for the township was $18,159. About 5.0% of families and 6.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8.3% of those under age 18 and 6.7% of those age 65 or over.

title: Weesaw Township, Michigan


text:
Algansee Township, Michigan

Algansee Township is a civil township of Branch County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 2,033 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * Alagansee is an unincorporated community located within the township at 41.8325°N, -84.88083°W. The community recorded its first land purchase by Monroe County, New York native Jedehiah Jessup on September 12, 1835.  The first permanent settlers would be Luther Stiles and Ludovico Robbins in the winter of 1836–1837, and Jessup built a sawmill.  A post office opened here on July 19, 1845, and operated until January 14, 1905.

History
Algansee Township was created by state legislation on April 2, 1838. It was created from the southern section of Quincy Township and included the land area extending south to the Indiana state line. While the early residents wanted the name of the new township to be named Carlton, it was unexplainably named Alagansee when the township was formally established. The origin of both names is unknown, as the earliest township records have been lost.

Algansee Township assumed its current boundaries on March 25, 1846 when California Township was set off from the southern section of the township.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 36.09 sqmi, of which 35.53 sqmi is land and 0.56 sqmi (1.55%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,061 people, 746 households, and 561 families residing in the township. The population density was 58.0 PD/sqmi. There were 970 housing units at an average density of 27.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 98.69% White, 0.19% African American, 0.19% Native American, 0.29% from other races, and 0.63% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.92% of the population.

There were 746 households, out of which 31.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 65.4% were married couples living together, 5.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.7% were non-families. 20.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.71 and the average family size was 3.12.

In the township the population was spread out, with 28.0% under the age of 18, 5.9% from 18 to 24, 26.9% from 25 to 44, 25.9% from 45 to 64, and 13.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 105.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 103.2 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $42,794, and the median income for a family was $44,130. Males had a median income of $30,625 versus $22,051 for females. The per capita income for the township was $18,299. About 4.8% of families and 7.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8.4% of those under age 18 and 3.6% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people

 * Raymond Culver, educator and fourth president of Shimer College, born in Algansee Township

title: Algansee Township, Michigan


text:
Batavia Township, Michigan

Batavia Township is a civil township of Branch County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the township's population was 1,323.

Communities
The township is primarily agricultural. There are no incorporated municipalities, although the city of Coldwater lies just east of the township. There are only two unincorporated communities within the township:
 * Batavia is at 41.9125°N, -85.09806°W. It is situated on US 12, 4 mi southwest of Coldwater. It was settled in 1832.
 * Batavia Center is at 41.94056°N, -85.11833°W. It is situated on M-86 about 5 mi west of Coldwater.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 93.6 km2, of which 92.5 km2 is land and 1.1 km2, or 1.18%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,546 people, 588 households, and 429 families residing in the township. The population density was 43.3 PD/sqmi. There were 651 housing units at an average density of 18.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 97.28% White, 0.91% African American, 0.13% Native American, 0.06% Asian, 0.65% from other races, and 0.97% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.62% of the population.

There were 588 households, out of which 32.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.0% were married couples living together, 8.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.9% were non-families. 22.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.61 and the average family size was 3.03.

In the township the population was spread out, with 25.1% under the age of 18, 8.3% from 18 to 24, 27.6% from 25 to 44, 24.9% from 45 to 64, and 14.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 102.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 100.3 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $41,351, and the median income for a family was $46,667. Males had a median income of $33,542 versus $21,806 for females. The per capita income for the township was $18,526. About 5.5% of families and 9.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 11.2% of those under age 18 and 14.9% of those age 65 or over.

title: Batavia Township, Michigan


text:
Bethel Township, Michigan

Bethel Township is a civil township of Branch County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the township population was 1,431.

Communities
There are no incorporated municipalities within the township.
 * Bethel is an unincorporated community in the southeast corner of the township at 41.83278°N, -85.07361°W. It was first settled in 1830. A post office opened on April 30, 1857, and operated until November 30, 1905.
 * Hatmaker is an unincorporated community near the center of the township at 41.8475°N, -85.12139°W. The settlement was named for the pioneer Hatmaker family, which included Aaron, the cider-maker, and Peter, the grocer and first postmaster. A post office operated from May 23, 1887, until August 31, 1894, and from January 5, 1899, until June 15, 1900.
 * Snow Prairie is a historical locale and former post office near the center of the township. Eleazar Snow from New England settled here in 1830 near the northwest corner of section 16. The place became known as Snow Prairie, although Snow sold his holdings to Moses Olmstead in 1831. Because of its location, a post office named Bethel Centre was established on March 1, 1867. It was renamed Snow Prairie on September 19, 1867, and operated until June 15, 1869.
 * The city of Bronson is adjacent to the west on U.S. Highway 12, which cuts through the northwest corner of the township. The Bronson ZIP code 49028 serves areas in western and southern Bethel Township.
 * The city of Coldwater is to the northeast, and the Coldwater ZIP code 49036 serves areas in northern and eastern Bethel Township.

History
Eleazar Snow was the first settler in the area in 1830, though he sold out to Moses Olmstead in 1831. The town was first called Elizabeth, probably by Mr. Olmstead after Elizabeth, New Jersey. It was organized as a township under that name by the Michigan Legislature of 1836–37, and the first township meeting for the township of Elizabeth was held at the house of Moses Olmstead on April 3, 1837. The Michigan Legislature of 1838-39 changed the name of the township to Bethel, although no reasons for the change were recorded.

Geography
The township is drained by tributaries of the St. Joseph River: the Prairie River in the south and Swan Creek in the north.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 93.4 km2, of which 92.8 km2 is land and 0.6 km2, or 0.67%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,421 people, 475 households, and 362 families residing in the township. The population density was 39.6 PD/sqmi. There were 510 housing units at an average density of 14.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 88.74% White, 1.06% African American, 0.49% Native American, 0.07% Asian, 8.09% from other races, and 1.55% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 11.26% of the population.

There were 475 households, out of which 36.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 62.3% were married couples living together, 8.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.6% were non-families. 18.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.80 and the average family size was 3.18.

In the township the population was spread out, with 27.0% under the age of 18, 10.0% from 18 to 24, 31.6% from 25 to 44, 21.3% from 45 to 64, and 10.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 119.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 126.9 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $40,400, and the median income for a family was $44,038. Males had a median income of $29,034 versus $23,281 for females. The per capita income for the township was $16,252. About 5.0% of families and 10.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.9% of those under age 18 and none of those age 65 or over.

title: Bethel Township, Michigan


text:
Bronson, Michigan

Bronson is a city in Branch County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 2,307 at the 2020 census. Incorporated as a city in 1934, Bronson is mostly surrounded by Bronson Township, but the two are administered autonomously.

History
A post office was established here under the name of Bronson's Prairie in 1830, with Jabez B. Bronson as post master. When the village was started it was first named York, but was renamed to Bronson by the Michigan legislature in 1837. The village was incorporated in 1866 and made a city in 1934.

Bronson established a new City Charter in 1985. This charter established the Council-Manager form of government under which Bronson still operates.

Government
The City of Bronson is governed by a five-member City Council. Members are elected at large by city residents in odd-year elections to either two or four-year terms. The Council elect, from among their members, a mayor and vice-mayor. Alicia Cole became mayor in January 2014 following the death of Tom Rissman, who had held the position since 2003. Cole is Rissman's eldest daughter. Larry McConn is the vice-mayor.

The City Council appoints a clerk/treasurer to oversee official records, voting, the collection of taxes, and the depositing of all city funds. Karen A. Smith was appointed to this role in 1983. Smith also holds the post of assessor for the city.

Charles Lillis of the firm Biringer, Hutchinson, Lillis, Bappert & Angell, PC serves as city attorney- a post he has held since 2011.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.37 sqmi, all land.

The North Bronson Industrial Area Superfund Sites are a group of three United States Environmental Protection Agency Superfund sites: the former Bronson Reel Facility, the former L.A. Darling Facility, and the former Scott Fetzer Facility.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 2,349 people, 834 households, and 568 families residing in the city. The population density was 1714.6 PD/sqmi. There were 946 housing units at an average density of 690.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 89.8% White, 0.8% African American, 0.6% Native American, 0.6% Asian, 6.2% from other races, and 2.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 15.4% of the population.

There were 834 households, of which 40.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.0% were married couples living together, 17.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 7.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 31.9% were non-families. 26.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.80 and the average family size was 3.33.

The median age in the city was 30.8 years. 31.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 11.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 25.4% were from 25 to 44; 22.1% were from 45 to 64; and 10.3% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 49.3% male and 50.7% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,421 people, 891 households, and 601 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,784.8 PD/sqmi. There were 979 housing units at an average density of 721.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 92.32% White, 0.58% African American, 0.54% Native American, 0.25% Asian, 4.42% from other races, and 1.90% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 8.51% of the population.

There were 891 households, out of which 37.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.8% were married couples living together, 15.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.5% were non-families. 27.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.71 and the average family size was 3.26.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 30.1% under the age of 18, 10.0% from 18 to 24, 28.4% from 25 to 44, 16.8% from 45 to 64, and 14.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females, there were 90.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.7 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $32,035, and the median income for a family was $42,813. Males had a median income of $29,702 versus $22,406 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,023. About 9.4% of families and 12.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.8% of those under age 18 and 6.8% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people

 * Elizabeth Colwell, artist, born in Bronson

Sister cities

 * Moryń, Poland

title: Bronson, Michigan


text:
Bronson Township, Michigan

Bronson Township is a civil township of Branch County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the township population was 1,288.

The city of Bronson is located within the township, though it is administratively autonomous. There are no other incorporated municipalities within the primarily agricultural township.

U.S. Highway 12 crosses the township diagonally from northeast to southwest.

History
This township was originally named Prairie River Township but was renamed to its current name by the state legislature in 1837.

Geography
The township is drained by two tributaries of the St. Joseph River: the Prairie River in the south and Swan Creek in the north.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 90.0 km2, of which 89.7 km2 is land and 0.3 km2, or 0.36%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,358 people, 481 households, and 368 families residing in the township. The population density was 39.1 PD/sqmi. There were 505 housing units at an average density of 14.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 97.13% White, 0.22% Native American, 0.07% Asian, 1.55% from other races, and 1.03% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.17% of the population.

There were 481 households, out of which 38.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 64.2% were married couples living together, 7.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.3% were non-families. 19.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.81 and the average family size was 3.24.

In the township the population was spread out, with 29.2% under the age of 18, 7.7% from 18 to 24, 30.8% from 25 to 44, 20.5% from 45 to 64, and 11.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 106.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 99.6 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $41,202, and the median income for a family was $48,289. Males had a median income of $31,552 versus $25,833 for females. The per capita income for the township was $16,223. About 3.0% of families and 5.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 4.5% of those under age 18 and 7.8% of those age 65 or over.

title: Bronson Township, Michigan


text:
Butler Township, Michigan

Butler Township is a civil township in northeastern Branch County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the township population was 1,417.

Communities
There are no incorporated municipalities in the primarily agricultural township. The only concentrated settlements are two unincorporated communities:
 * Butler is at 42.05778°N, -84.86528°W.
 * South Butler is at 42.02222°N, -84.885°W.
 * Faxton was a post office in the township from 1893 until 1900.

History
Butler Township was organized in 1835. It was named after the town of Butler, New York, which was where most of the residents at that point had come from. There was a settlement here called Dayburg formed in 1845.

Geography
The township is drained by tributaries of the St. Joseph River: the north and south branches of Hog Creek, Tekonsha Creek, and Soap Creek.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 92.6 sqkm, of which 92.3 sqkm is land and 0.3 sqkm, or 0.38%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,362 people, 431 households, and 349 families residing in the township. The population density was 38.2 PD/sqmi. There were 459 housing units at an average density of 12.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 96.99% White, 0.59% African American, 0.07% Native American, 0.29% Asian, 0.07% from other races, and 1.98% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.22% of the population.

There were 431 households, out of which 42.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 68.4% were married couples living together, 7.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 19.0% were non-families. 16.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 3.16 and the average family size was 3.56.

In the township the population was spread out, with 34.1% under the age of 18, 7.6% from 18 to 24, 28.2% from 25 to 44, 20.9% from 45 to 64, and 9.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females, there were 105.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.5 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $38,631, and the median income for a family was $41,184. Males had a median income of $35,234 versus $24,286 for females. The per capita income for the township was $14,731. About 7.4% of families and 9.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 12.2% of those under age 18 and 11.2% of those age 65 or over.

title: Butler Township, Michigan


text:
California Township, Michigan

California Township is a civil township of Branch County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,181 at the 2020 census.

History
California Township was organized in 1846. It was named after the California Territory.

Communities
There are no incorporated municipalities within the primarily agricultural township. The only concentrated settlements are in two unincorporated communities:
 * California is at 41.8°N, -84.88333°W.
 * Ray is situated on the Indiana state border (and is partly within Indiana).

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 55.2 km2, of which 55.1 km2 is land and 0.1 km2, or 0.20%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 909 people, 274 households, and 204 families residing in the township. The population density was 42.8 PD/sqmi. There were 294 housing units at an average density of 13.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 95.38% White, 1.32% African American, 0.33% Native American, and 2.97% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.44% of the population.

There were 274 households, out of which 42.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 63.1% were married couples living together, 6.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.2% were non-families. 20.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 3.30 and the average family size was 3.87.

In the township the population was spread out, with 40.5% under the age of 18, 9.2% from 18 to 24, 24.3% from 25 to 44, 15.5% from 45 to 64, and 10.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 25 years. For every 100 females, there were 109.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 108.1 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $34,545, and the median income for a family was $38,304. Males had a median income of $27,500 versus $20,833 for females. The per capita income for the township was $11,341. About 21.3% of families and 31.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 46.5% of those under age 18 and 26.0% of those age 65 or over.

title: California Township, Michigan


text:
Coldwater, Michigan

Coldwater is a city in and county seat of Branch County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The city had a population of 13,822 at the 2020 census. The city is mostly surrounded by Coldwater Township, but the two are administered autonomously.

History
American settlers first moved into the area around 1830, with many arriving from New York and New England. Coldwater was incorporated as a village in 1837, and then incorporated by the legislature as a city in 1861. It was designated in 1842 as the county seat of Branch County.

Geography
The Coldwater River flows into the city from the south, originating from Coldwater Lake. The Coldwater chain of lakes also has an outlet called the Sauk River, which flows from its north end (near Quincy) and then through the south side of the city of Coldwater. Both combine to form a series of shallow, connected lakes on the city's west side.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 8.27 sqmi, of which 8.03 sqmi is land and 0.24 sqmi is water.

Climate
Under the Köppen climate classification Coldwater has a humid continental climate that is borderline between categories Dfa (hot summer) and Dfb (long, warm summer).

National Weather Service records show that average January temperatures are a maximum of 30.9 °F and a minimum of 15.9 °F. Average July temperatures are a maximum of 81.9 °F and a minimum of 59.9 °F. There are an average of 7.4 afternoons with highs of 90 °F or higher and an average of 136.2 days with lows of 32 °F or lower. The record high temperature of 108 °F was on July 24, 1934, and the record low temperature was −29 °F on January 31, 2019.

Precipitation averages 39.12 in annually. There is measurable precipitation on an average of 145 days. The wettest year was 2018 with 47.12 in and the driest year was 1930 with 17.94 in. The most precipitation in one month was 13.07 in in August 2007. The most precipitation in 24 hours was 5.37 in on June 26, 1978.

Snowfall averages 42.7 in annually. There is measurable snowfall on an average of 27.5 days. The snowiest season was from July 1977 to June 1978 when 84.8 in fell, including 50.7 in in January 1978. A blizzard that month included 17.0 in of snow on January 26, 1978.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 10,945 people, 4,255 households, and 2,628 families living in the city. The population density was 1363.0 PD/sqmi. There were 4,827 housing units at an average density of 601.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 92.5% White, 0.6% African American, 0.2% Native American, 0.8% Asian, 3.2% from other races, and 2.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 6.6% of the population.

There were 4,255 households, of which 34.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 39.9% were married couples living together, 15.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.7% had a male householder with no wife present, and 38.2% were non-families. 32.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.49 and the average family size was 3.14.

The median age in the city was 35.2 years. 27.2% of residents were under the age of 18; 9.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 25.3% were from 25 to 44; 23.4% were from 45 to 64; and 15% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.8% male and 52.2% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 12,697 people, 4,058 households, and 2,520 families living in the city. The population density was 1,562.5 PD/sqmi. There were 4,370 housing units at an average density of 537.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 85.35% White, 8.42% African American, 0.75% Native American, 0.92% Asian, 0.03% Pacific Islander, 1.52% from other races, and 3.01% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.52% of the population.

There were 4,058 households, out of which 32.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.6% were married couples living together, 12.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 37.9% were non-families. 31.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.49 and the average family size was 3.11.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 22.4% under the age of 18, 9.4% from 18 to 24, 35.4% from 25 to 44, 20.3% from 45 to 64, and 12.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 101.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 100.8 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $33,913, and the median income for a family was $41,107. Males had a median income of $31,577 versus $22,088 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,833. About 6.0% of families and 9.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 11.6% of those under age 18 and 7.9% of those age 65 or over.

Annual cultural events
Several seasonal annual festivals are held in Coldwater. The Ice Festival held in January features ice carvings, a chili-tasting competition, and other family activities. The Strawberry fest held in June features many different foods made from strawberries and arts and crafts. The Apple Fest held in September features home-baked goods made from apples and various arts and crafts.

Tourism
The Tibbits Opera House in Coldwater was built in 1882; it is the second-oldest theater in Michigan. It was converted to a movie theater in the 1930s. In the 1960s a campaign began to restore its original use as a theater for live performances with the eventual goal of restoring its French Empire architecture. It is now a venue for a variety of cultural activities.

The Wing House was built in 1875; it is now operated as a historical museum by the Branch County Historical Society. The Little River Railroad offers rides behind a 1911-built steam locomotive, departing from the city's historic 1883 depot.

Education
Aside from the usual public and parochial schools, Coldwater has a branch of Kellogg Community College and Baker College.
 * Coldwater Community Schools, public school district for Coldwater
 * Pansophia Academy, charter school, grades K–12
 * St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School, grades K–5
 * Legg Middle School, grades 6–8. Part of Coldwater Community Schools.
 * Coldwater High School, grades 9–12. Part of Coldwater Community Schools.

Media
The newspaper published in Coldwater is The Daily Reporter.

Coldwater has radio stations WTVB and WNWN, whose studios are located south of town on Business Loop 69 that are part of the Kalamazoo radio area. There are no television stations broadcasting from within the county; Coldwater gets its television signals from the Kalamazoo-Grand Rapids-Battle Creek and Lansing-Jackson SMSAs in Michigan.

Air
Memorial Airport serves general aviation only.

Major highways

 * . Coldwater is accessible from exits 10 (BL I-69, Fenn Road), 13 (US 12/BL I-69), and 16 (Jonesville Road). The city has expanded since 1967 when I-69 was completed in the area to incorporate the urban sprawl at exit 13.
 * runs through downtown Coldwater.
 * continues west to Sturgis and east toward the Hillsdale area.
 * runs west to Three Rivers.

Mass transit
Coldwater public bus transportation is provided by Branch Area Transit Authority (BATA).

Rail
Coldwater has an east–west railroad, but this is essentially a relic of one that led to Chicago and Detroit.

Notable people

 * Scott Brayton, Indycar driver, was killed in practice at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 1996
 * Enoch Chase, Wisconsin State Senator
 * George Coe, 11th Lieutenant Governor of Michigan
 * Hawley Harvey Crippen, convicted of murdering his wife and executed
 * Jim Curtiss, professional baseball player
 * Robert Dowdell, actor
 * Edward Ellis, actor
 * Samuel Etheridge, one of Michigan's first state senators, representing the Seventh Senatorial District from 1838 to 1840
 * Jad Fair and David Fair, musicians; founders of the band Half Japanese
 * Maude Farris-Luse (1887–2002), supercentenarian
 * Alice Haylett, AAGPBL All-Star pitcher
 * Bertha Lincoln Heustis, writer, born in Coldwater
 * Jeff Kellogg, former MLB umpire
 * Becky Levi, mixed martial artist
 * Cyrus G. Luce, Michigan governor
 * Ruth McDevitt, actress
 * Alfred Milnes, mayor of Coldwater and 28th Lieutenant Governor of Michigan
 * Clara D. Pierson, children's book author
 * Harriet Quimby, aviation pioneer, the first US woman to receive a pilot's license
 * Dan Severn, mixed martial artist and professional wrestler
 * Jeff Stanton, motorcycle racer
 * Robert Teeter, Republican pollster and campaign strategist
 * Bill Welke, current MLB umpire
 * Tim Welke, former MLB umpire

Sister cities

 * 🇩🇪 Soltau, Germany

title: Coldwater, Michigan


text:
Coldwater Township, Branch County, Michigan

Coldwater Township is a civil township of Branch County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 3,406 at the 2020 census.

The township surrounds the City of Coldwater, but the city is administratively autonomous. The city's urban area extends well into the township. The township contains no incorporated villages.

Interstate 69 and US 12 intersect at I-69 Exit 13 in the eastern part of the City of Coldwater. State highway M-86 has its eastern terminus at a junction with US 12 about 2 mi west of the city.

Geography
The Coldwater River flows north through the township, forming a series of lakes just west and north of the city. It is a tributary of the St. Joseph River, flowing to Lake Michigan.

According to the United States Census Bureau, Coldwater Township has a total area of 74.4 km2, of which 71.3 km2 is land and 3.0 km2, or 4.09%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 3,678 people, 1,426 households, and 1,048 families residing in the township. The population density was 134.3 PD/sqmi. There were 1,684 housing units at an average density of 61.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 97.09% White, 0.52% African American, 0.27% Native American, 0.60% Asian, 0.63% from other races, and 0.90% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.09% of the population.

There were 1,426 households, out of which 31.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.1% were married couples living together, 9.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.5% were non-families. 22.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.50 and the average family size was 2.91.

In the township the population was spread out, with 23.8% under the age of 18, 7.1% from 18 to 24, 25.0% from 25 to 44, 27.3% from 45 to 64, and 16.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 93.8 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $44,360, and the median income for a family was $49,495. Males had a median income of $34,722 versus $24,938 for females. The per capita income for the township was $21,247. About 2.7% of families and 3.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 3.1% of those under age 18 and 1.1% of those age 65 or over.


text:
Gilead Township, Michigan

Gilead Township is a civil township of Branch County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the township population was 656.

Communities
There are no incorporated municipalities within the primarily agricultural township. The only concentrated settlements are in two unincorporated communities:
 * East Gilead is just north of the Indiana state border at 41.78194°N, -85.08306°W.
 * Gilead is on the east side of Lake Gilead at 41.80083°N, -85.15556°W. Its founding was largely the result of the efforts of Philander Chase, who came here in 1831 with plans to found a college. The college did not materialize, but the community did have a post office from 1833 until 1906.

Geography
The township is drained mostly by the Prairie River and several tributary creeks. A small portion of the southwest corner drains into the Fawn River.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 55.5 km2, of which 54.5 km2 is land and 0.9 km2, or 1.65%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 753 people, 256 households, and 186 families residing in the township. The population density was 35.7 PD/sqmi. There were 368 housing units at an average density of 17.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 88.58% White, 0.40% Native American, 10.23% from other races, and 0.80% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 13.01% of the population.

There were 256 households, out of which 28.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.2% were married couples living together, 8.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 27.3% were non-families. 22.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.67 and the average family size was 3.08.

In the township the population was spread out, with 22.6% under the age of 18, 10.0% from 18 to 24, 32.4% from 25 to 44, 22.0% from 45 to 64, and 13.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 131.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 127.7 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $37,000, and the median income for a family was $43,000. Males had a median income of $34,063 versus $26,974 for females. The per capita income for the township was $17,256. About 5.9% of families and 18.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.0% of those under age 18 and 14.3% of those age 65 or over.

title: Gilead Township, Michigan


text:
Girard Township, Michigan

Girard Township is a civil township of Branch County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the township population was 1,770.

A small area in the south of the township, just west of I-69, has been annexed to the city of Coldwater, even though it is noncontiguous with the rest of the city. An area on the east side of Morrison Lake in the Coldwater River is considered to be part of the Coldwater urban area, although it remains unincorporated.

Communities
There are no other incorporated municipalities within the township. The only other concentrated settlement is the unincorporated community of Girard, at 42.02944°N, -85.00139°W. The community of Girard was first established in 1829.

Geography
Most of the township is drained by branches of Hog Creek, a tributary of the Coldwater River, which flows through the southwest of the township. Tekonsha Creek drains the northeast of the township, flowing into the St. Joseph River near Tekonsha.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 93.7 km2, of which 90.8 km2 is land and 2.9 km2, or 3.05%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,916 people, 705 households, and 528 families residing in the township. The population density was 54.4 PD/sqmi. There were 851 housing units at an average density of 24.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 97.65% White, 0.78% African American, 0.47% Native American, 0.47% Asian, 0.16% from other races, and 0.47% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.84% of the population.

There were 705 households, out of which 27.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 64.1% were married couples living together, 7.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.0% were non-families. 21.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.51 and the average family size was 2.89.

In the township the population was spread out, with 19.7% under the age of 18, 9.7% from 18 to 24, 29.1% from 25 to 44, 28.5% from 45 to 64, and 13.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 110.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 111.7 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $43,173, and the median income for a family was $50,197. Males had a median income of $34,545 versus $23,393 for females. The per capita income for the township was $21,016. About 5.4% of families and 6.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 6.0% of those under age 18 and 10.6% of those age 65 or over.

title: Girard Township, Michigan


text:
Kinderhook Township, Michigan

Kinderhook Township is a civil township of Branch County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the township population was 1,427.

Communities
There are no incorporated municipalities within the primarily agricultural township. There are settlements in three communities:
 * Canada Shores is on the southeast side of Coldwater Lake at 41.80778°N, -84.9625°W.
 * Kinderhook is just west of exit 3 on I-69 at 41.79667°N, -85.00528°W.
 * West Kinderhook is at 41.78194°N, -85.05417°W.

Geography
There are several lakes in the township. Those in the west drain into the Prairie River, while those in the south drain into the Fawn River. Coldwater Lake, located in the northeast of the township, drains into the Coldwater River.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 55.3 km2, of which 50.4 km2 is land and 4.9 km2, or 8.82%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,614 people, 643 households, and 500 families residing in the township. The population density was 82.9 PD/sqmi. There were 1,184 housing units at an average density of 60.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 96.72% White, 0.31% African American, 0.62% Native American, 0.06% Asian, 0.06% Pacific Islander, 1.18% from other races, and 1.05% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.49% of the population.

There were 643 households, out of which 30.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 68.7% were married couples living together, 5.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 22.2% were non-families. 18.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.51 and the average family size was 2.83.

In the township the population was spread out, with 23.2% under the age of 18, 6.2% from 18 to 24, 27.0% from 25 to 44, 27.8% from 45 to 64, and 15.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 103.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 103.1 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $45,903, and the median income for a family was $50,474. Males had a median income of $33,922 versus $24,583 for females. The per capita income for the township was $21,801. About 3.9% of families and 5.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 6.6% of those under age 18 and 3.8% of those age 65 or over.

title: Kinderhook Township, Michigan


text:
Matteson Township, Michigan

Matteson Township is a civil township of Branch County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the township population was 1,173.

Communities
There are no incorporated municipalities in the mostly agricultural township. The only settlement in the township is the unincorporated community of Matteson at 41.94111°N, -85.19056°W.

Geography
Most of the township is drained by Little Swan Creek, a tributary of the St. Joseph River. The northwest portion is drained by other small tributaries of the St. Joseph. A portion in the southeast is drained by Swan Creek.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 94.0 km2, of which 92.7 km2 is land and 1.4 km2, or 1.48%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,285 people, 493 households, and 371 families residing in the township. The population density was 35.9 PD/sqmi. There were 628 housing units at an average density of 17.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 98.05% White, 0.47% African American, 0.08% Native American, 0.08% Pacific Islander, 0.62% from other races, and 0.70% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.25% of the population.

There were 493 households, out of which 29.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.9% were married couples living together, 8.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.7% were non-families. 20.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.61 and the average family size was 2.99.

In the township the population was spread out, with 25.8% under the age of 18, 7.1% from 18 to 24, 28.3% from 25 to 44, 26.1% from 45 to 64, and 12.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 103.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 99.0 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $42,500, and the median income for a family was $47,500. Males had a median income of $36,607 versus $22,452 for females. The per capita income for the township was $19,626. About 5.0% of families and 7.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 13.2% of those under age 18 and 7.7% of those age 65 or over.

title: Matteson Township, Michigan


text:
Noble Township, Michigan

Noble Township is a civil township of Branch County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 458 at the 2020 census.

There are no incorporated municipalities in the primarily agricultural township. There are no named settlements or unincorporated communities.

Geography
There are a series of small lakes in the east side of the township that drain into the Fawn River, which crosses the southeast corner. The Prairie River drains a portion on the north side.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 55.3 km2, of which 52.3 km2 is land and 1.0 km2, or 1.74%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 518 people, 170 households, and 146 families residing in the township. The population density was 24.7 per square mile (9.5/km$2$). There were 185 housing units at an average density of 8.8 per square mile (3.4/km$2$). The racial makeup of the township was 96.72% White, 0.58% Native American, 0.19% Asian, 1.54% from other races, and 0.97% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.12% of the population.

There were 170 households, out of which 38.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 70.6% were married couples living together, 7.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 14.1% were non-families. 11.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 3.05 and the average family size was 3.30.

In the township the population was spread out, with 29.5% under the age of 18, 8.9% from 18 to 24, 28.0% from 25 to 44, 22.0% from 45 to 64, and 11.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 101.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 103.9 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $40,625, and the median income for a family was $42,917. Males had a median income of $31,094 versus $20,179 for females. The per capita income for the township was $14,885. About 11.3% of families and 15.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 26.4% of those under age 18 and none of those age 65 or over.

title: Noble Township, Michigan


text:
Ovid Township, Branch County, Michigan

Ovid Township is a civil township of Branch County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 2,161 at the 2020 census.

Communities
The township, which is primarily agricultural, does not have any incorporated municipalities. Five settlements exist in several unincorporated communities:
 * Crystal Beach is at 41.83694°N, -84.97111°W.
 * Lockwood is at 41.88361°N, -85.04889°W.
 * Pearl Beach is at 41.82417°N, -84.98639°W.
 * Sans Souci Beach is at 41.83056°N, -84.97°W.

There is also an unnamed settlement at 41.84056°N, -85.05389°W between Lake of the Woods and Bingham Lake, about two miles northeast of Bethel.

Geography
The township is dominated geographically by lakes, primarily Coldwater Lake, as well as the smaller Lake of the Woods and several others. All drain into the Coldwater River, a tributary of the St. Joseph River flowing to Lake Michigan.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 93.8 km2, of which 85.9 km2 is land and 7.8 km2, or 8.35%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,432 people, 1,026 households, and 738 families residing in the township. The population density was 73.1 PD/sqmi. There were 1,889 housing units at an average density of 56.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 98.11% White, 0.21% Native American, 0.33% Asian, 0.53% from other races, and 0.82% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.07% of the population.

There were 1,026 households, out of which 25.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 62.9% were married couples living together, 5.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.0% were non-families. 23.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.37 and the average family size was 2.77.

In the township the population was spread out, with 20.9% under the age of 18, 6.6% from 18 to 24, 24.5% from 25 to 44, 30.6% from 45 to 64, and 17.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 44 years. For every 100 females, there were 105.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 101.6 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $44,593, and the median income for a family was $49,712. Males had a median income of $36,410 versus $23,382 for females. The per capita income for the township was $21,942. About 3.0% of families and 3.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 3.3% of those under age 18 and 5.0% of those age 65 or over.

title: Ovid Township, Branch County, Michigan


text:
Quincy, Michigan

Quincy is a village in Branch County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,554 at the 2020 census. The village is centered along U.S. Route 12 within Quincy Township.

History
The area was first settled by Horace Wilson, who first purchased land in 1830. He purchased 360 acres of land from the government. John Cornish became the first permanent resident when he built his house here in 1833. The area would be set aside from Coldwater Township and organized as Quincy Township in 1836. The township and community were named Quincy on the suggestion from Dr. Hiram Allen, who recently moved to the area from Quincy, Massachusetts. A post office named Quincy began operating on December 16, 1836. The Lake Shore and Michigan Southern Railway built a depot in Quincy, and the community incorporated as a village in 1858.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 1.56 sqmi, all land.

Major highways

 * is the main thoroughfare through the village.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,652 people, 634 households, and 436 families living in the village. The population density was 1354.1 PD/sqmi. There were 743 housing units at an average density of 609.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 96.9% White, 0.5% African American, 0.2% Native American, 0.4% Asian, 0.6% from other races, and 1.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.5% of the population.

There were 634 households, of which 40.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.5% were married couples living together, 18.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 8.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 31.2% were non-families. 25.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.61 and the average family size was 3.02.

The median age in the village was 33.1 years. 29.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 10.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 25.5% were from 25 to 44; 26.5% were from 45 to 64; and 8.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 49.4% male and 50.6% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,701 people, 640 households, and 435 families living in the village. The population density was 1,327.0 PD/sqmi. There were 687 housing units at an average density of 536.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 97.24% White, 0.29% African American, 0.24% Native American, 0.24% Asian, 0.18% Pacific Islander, 1.18% from other races, and 0.65% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.35% of the population.

There were 640 households, out of which 41.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.0% were married couples living together, 17.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.9% were non-families. 26.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.61 and the average family size was 3.10.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 31.5% under the age of 18, 9.8% from 18 to 24, 29.1% from 25 to 44, 19.9% from 45 to 64, and 9.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 91.6 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $35,987, and the median income for a family was $38,839. Males had a median income of $29,602 versus $22,188 for females. The per capita income for the village was $15,951. About 8.6% of families and 10.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 13.4% of those under age 18 and 14.1% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people

 * Scott Barry, current MLB umpire
 * Jill Dobson, television journalist for CBS, former Miss Michigan and former entertainment correspondent for Fox News Channel
 * Samuel Etheridge, one of Michigan's first state senators, representing the Seventh Senatorial District from 1838 to 1840
 * Bessie B. Kanouse, mycologist
 * Jane Murfin, playwright and screenwriter
 * Hope Rippey, convicted murderer of Shanda Sharer

title: Quincy, Michigan


text:
Quincy Township, Branch County, Michigan

Quincy Township is a civil township of Branch County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 4,108 at the 2020 census.

The village of Quincy is located within the township. There are no other incorporated municipalities and no named settlements or unincorporated communities in the primarily agricultural township.

Outside of the village of Quincy, the most urbanized area of the township is the area bounded by Ray Quincy Road to the east, Ridge Road to the west, the township line to the south and US-12 to the north (Marble Lake area).

Geography
U.S. Highway 12 runs east–west through the middle of the township. The entire township is drained by various tributaries of the Coldwater River. The north and west is drained by the South Branch of Hog Creek; the north central by Bagley Creek, which flows into Hog Creek just north of the township; northeast by Cold Creek; and the south by the Sauk River. The Coldwater River flows north to the St. Joseph River, which flows to Lake Michigan. Marble Lake, which drains into the Sauk River, is a major feature of the south central portion of Quincy Township.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 93.9 km2, of which 91.2 km2 is land and 2.7 km2, or 2.83%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 4,411 people, 1,617 households, and 1,159 families residing in the township. The population density was 124.9 PD/sqmi. There were 1,904 housing units at an average density of 53.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 98.12% White, 0.18% African American, 0.25% Native American, 0.23% Asian, 0.07% Pacific Islander, 0.45% from other races, and 0.70% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.13% of the population.

There were 1,617 households, out of which 37.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.9% were married couples living together, 10.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.3% were non-families. 23.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.71 and the average family size was 3.18.

In the township the population was spread out, with 29.4% under the age of 18, 8.6% from 18 to 24, 27.9% from 25 to 44, 23.0% from 45 to 64, and 11.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.9 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $41,823, and the median income for a family was $47,569. Males had a median income of $30,777 versus $21,848 for females. The per capita income for the township was $17,667. About 6.4% of families and 10.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 16.6% of those under age 18 and 8.9% of those age 65 or over.


text:
Sherwood, Michigan

Sherwood is a village in Branch County of the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 285 at the 2020 census. The village is located within Sherwood Township.

History
The community was originally called Hazenville when it was formed from the farmland of E. F. Hazen in 1832. When a post office began operating on March 8, 1833, it was named Durham. It was ultimately renamed to Sherwood on June 10, 1839. It was named after one of the first settlers, Alexander Tomlinson, who came from Sherwood Forest, England. The Sherwood post office closed on December 4, 1866. The nearby Newstead post office, which was established in early 1867, was transferred here and took over the Sherwood name on April 16, 1868. The Michigan Central Railroad built a line through the community in 1871. Sherwood incorporated as a village in 1887.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 1.00 sqmi, all land.

The St. Joseph River flows just northwest of the village boundaries.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 309 people, 106 households, and 77 families residing in the village. The population density was 315.3 PD/sqmi. There were 128 housing units at an average density of 130.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 95.1% White, 0.6% African American, 3.6% Native American, and 0.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.3% of the population.

There were 106 households, of which 40.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.0% were married couples living together, 12.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 10.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 27.4% were non-families. 20.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.92 and the average family size was 3.32.

The median age in the village was 39.2 years. 23.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 11.7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 26.6% were from 25 to 44; 26% were from 45 to 64; and 12% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 50.5% male and 49.5% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 324 people, 114 households, and 93 families residing in the village. The population density was 320.8 PD/sqmi. There were 126 housing units at an average density of 124.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 96.60% White, 0.62% African American, 0.93% Native American, and 1.85% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.62% of the population.

There were 114 households, out of which 41.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.9% were married couples living together, 15.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 18.4% were non-families. 14.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.84 and the average family size was 3.04.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 30.9% under the age of 18, 9.9% from 18 to 24, 28.7% from 25 to 44, 22.2% from 45 to 64, and 8.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 31 years. For every 100 females, there were 109.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 103.6 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $39,844, and the median income for a family was $41,250. Males had a median income of $31,429 versus $25,893 for females. The per capita income for the village was $16,101. About 8.3% of families and 10.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 16.5% of those under age 18 and 8.3% of those age 65 or over.

title: Sherwood, Michigan


text:
Sherwood Township, Michigan

Sherwood Township is a civil township of Branch County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,959 at the 2020 census.

The village of Sherwood is located within the township. There are no other incorporated municipalities and no named settlements or unincorporated communities within the township.

Geography
M-60/M-66 pass through the northwest corner of the township. M-66 separates from M-60 and goes due north while M-60 continues east.

The St. Joseph River flows diagonally from northeast to southwest through the township. The township is drained by several small streams and lakes that flow into the St. Joseph. Nottawa Creek passes through the northwest corner of the township, before joining the St. Joseph further downstream in Leonidas Township in St. Joseph County.

According to the United States Census Bureau, Sherwood Township has a total area of 93.6 km2, of which 89.7 km2 is land and 3.9 km2, or 4.16%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,284 people, 885 households, and 658 families residing in the township. The population density was 65.5 PD/sqmi. There were 1,112 housing units at an average density of 31.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 97.02% White, 0.22% African American, 0.92% Native American, 0.13% Asian, 0.04% Pacific Islander, 0.04% from other races, and 1.62% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.96% of the population.

There were 885 households, out of which 31.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.6% were married couples living together, 10.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.6% were non-families. 20.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.58 and the average family size was 2.94.

In the township the population was spread out, with 25.5% under the age of 18, 7.6% from 18 to 24, 29.0% from 25 to 44, 24.7% from 45 to 64, and 13.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 108.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 106.8 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $34,231, and the median income for a family was $38,203. Males had a median income of $30,485 versus $21,536 for females. The per capita income for the township was $15,560. About 8.8% of families and 11.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 16.4% of those under age 18 and 10.9% of those age 65 or over.

title: Sherwood Township, Michigan


text:
Union Township, Branch County, Michigan

Union Township is a civil township of Branch County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 2,942 at the 2020 census.

The village of Union City is the only incorporated municipality in the township. The only other settlement in the primarily agricultural township is the unincorporated community of Hodunk, situated on the boundary with adjacent Girard Township near the junction of Hog Creek and the Coldwater River. Hodunk is at 42.01472°N, -85.06167°W. The FIPS place code is 38580.

Geography
M-60 passes through the northwest corner of the township. The St. Joseph River flows through Union City and the township just south of M-60. The entire township is drained by various tributaries of the St. Joseph, the largest being the Coldwater River, which flows into the St. Joseph at Union City.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 93.3 km2, of which 91.8 km2 is land and 1.4 km2, or 1.55%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 3,121 people, 1,184 households, and 837 families residing in the township. The population density was 87.4 PD/sqmi. There were 1,279 housing units at an average density of 35.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 96.51% White, 0.38% African American, 0.51% Native American, 0.32% Asian, 0.38% from other races, and 1.89% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.90% of the population.

There were 1,184 households, out of which 34.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.2% were married couples living together, 10.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 29.3% were non-families. 23.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.63 and the average family size was 3.10.

In the township the population was spread out, with 28.3% under the age of 18, 8.3% from 18 to 24, 27.8% from 25 to 44, 23.5% from 45 to 64, and 12.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 97.8 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $36,990, and the median income for a family was $43,145. Males had a median income of $33,531 versus $22,059 for females. The per capita income for the township was $17,203. About 6.8% of families and 10.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 17.8% of those under age 18 and 6.2% of those age 65 or over.

title: Union Township, Branch County, Michigan


text:
Albion Township, Michigan

Albion Township is a civil township of Calhoun County in the U.S. state of Michigan. It is part of the Battle Creek, Michigan Metropolitan Statistical Area. As of the 2020 census, the township population was 1,094.

History
Albion Township was established by a division of Homer Township in 1837.

Communities
The city of Albion is located on the northern boundary of the township, though it is administratively autonomous. There are two small named locales in the township:
 * Babcock is at 42.21722°N, -84.8°W, about 2 mi southwest of Albion city. It is just west of the south branch of the Kalamazoo River. Midway Airport, a small airfield, is nearby. The elevation is 959 ft above sea level.
 * Condit is at 42.18833°N, -84.78667°W, about 4 mi southwest of Albion city and 2 mi north of Homer.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 85.6 km2, of which 84.5 km2 is land and 1.0 km2, or 1.22%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,200 people, 466 households, and 353 families residing in the township. The population density was 36.6 PD/sqmi. There were 493 housing units at an average density of 15.1 per square mile (5.8/km$2$). The racial makeup of the township was 94.58% White, 2.67% African American, 0.33% Native American, 0.08% Pacific Islander, 0.58% from other races, and 1.75% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.67% of the population.

There were 466 households, out of which 29.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 63.3% were married couples living together, 7.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.2% were non-families. 19.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.55 and the average family size was 2.91.

In the township the population was spread out, with 24.6% under the age of 18, 6.2% from 18 to 24, 27.2% from 25 to 44, 25.3% from 45 to 64, and 16.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.6 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $40,625, and the median income for a family was $44,531. Males had a median income of $33,500 versus $24,167 for females. The per capita income for the township was $16,849. About 7.1% of families and 8.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 10.7% of those under age 18 and 7.9% of those age 65 or over.

title: Albion Township, Michigan


text:
Athens, Michigan

Athens is a village in Calhoun County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 936 at the 2020 census. The village is located in southern Athens Township, and is part of the Battle Creek, Michigan Metropolitan Statistical Area. It was settled in 1831.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 1.02 sqmi, of which 1.01 sqmi is land and 0.01 sqmi is water. The Nottawa Creek, also known as the Nottawa River, flows through Athens.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,024 people, 387 households, and 279 families living in the village. The population density was 1013.9 PD/sqmi. There were 424 housing units at an average density of 419.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 95.4% White, 0.5% African American, 0.9% Native American, 0.1% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 0.8% from other races, and 2.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.4% of the population.

There were 387 households, of which 34.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.3% were married couples living together, 11.4% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 27.9% were non-families. 22.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.65 and the average family size was 3.08.

The median age in the village was 38.9 years. 24% of residents were under the age of 18; 10% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 25% were from 25 to 44; 26.9% were from 45 to 64; and 14.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 50.3% male and 49.7% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,111 people, 397 households, and 298 families living in the village. The population density was 1,115.7 PD/sqmi. There were 424 housing units at an average density of 425.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 97.48% White, 0.27% African American, 0.81% Native American, 0.27% Pacific Islander, 0.09% from other races, and 1.08% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.89% of the population.

There were 397 households, out of which 41.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.2% were married couples living together, 10.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.7% were non-families. 20.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.80 and the average family size was 3.23.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 32.3% under the age of 18, 7.7% from 18 to 24, 32.3% from 25 to 44, 16.0% from 45 to 64, and 11.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.4 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $42,083, and the median income for a family was $49,375. Males had a median income of $36,618 versus $26,875 for females. The per capita income for the village was $16,409. About 3.7% of families and 5.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.9% of those under age 18 and 6.3% of those age 65 or over.

title: Athens, Michigan