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Elmer Township, Oscoda County, Michigan

Elmer Township is a civil township of Oscoda County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,150 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * Mio is an unincorporated community and census-designated place occupying the southeast corner of the township.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 71.37 sqmi, of which 70.95 sqmi is land and 0.42 sqmi (0.59%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,095 people, 388 households, and 294 families residing in the township. The population density was 15.5 PD/sqmi. There were 840 housing units at an average density of 11.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 99.27% White, 0.09% African American, 0.18% Native American, and 0.46% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.37% of the population.

There were 388 households, out of which 33.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 66.8% were married couples living together, 6.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.0% were non-families. 18.3% 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 2.82 and the average family size was 3.27.

In the township the population was spread out, with 30.2% under the age of 18, 7.3% from 18 to 24, 21.9% from 25 to 44, 27.9% from 45 to 64, and 12.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.4 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $27,500, and the median income for a family was $31,389. Males had a median income of $29,563 versus $19,886 for females. The per capita income for the township was $15,273. About 13.2% of families and 15.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 13.5% of those under age 18 and 17.6% of those age 65 or over.

title: Elmer Township, Oscoda County, Michigan


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Greenwood Township, Oscoda County, Michigan

Greenwood Township is a civil township of Oscoda County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,158 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * Red Oak is an unincorporated community within the township at 44.70972°N, -84.29222°W. The community began as a station along the Au Sable & Northwestern Railroad and received a now-defunct post office on August 27, 1888.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 70.87 sqmi, of which, 70.00 sqmi of it is land and 0.87 sqmi of it (1.23%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,195 people, 550 households, and 364 families residing in the township. The population density was 17.1 PD/sqmi. There were 1,664 housing units at an average density of 23.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 98.08% White, 0.08% African American, 0.59% Native American, 0.08% Asian, and 1.17% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.26% of the population.

There were 550 households, out of which 18.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.9% were married couples living together, 4.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 33.8% were non-families. 29.5% 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 2.17 and the average family size was 2.65.

In the township the population was spread out, with 18.2% under the age of 18, 3.7% from 18 to 24, 21.3% from 25 to 44, 31.3% from 45 to 64, and 25.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 50 years. For every 100 females, there were 98.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 101.2 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $28,426, and the median income for a family was $33,235. Males had a median income of $31,667 versus $17,917 for females. The per capita income for the township was $17,083. About 8.9% of families and 13.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 26.6% of those under age 18 and 5.5% of those age 65 or over.

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


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Mentor Township, Oscoda County, Michigan

Mentor Township is a civil township of Oscoda County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,073 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * McKinley is an unincorporated community in the northeast part of the township along the Au Sable River at 44.64694°N, -83.93722°W.
 * Mio is an unincorporated community and census-designated place in the northwest part of the township along the boundary between Mentor and Big Creek Township. Mio serves as the county seat of Oscoda County.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 142.8 square miles (369.8 km2), of which 142.1 square miles (368.0 km2) is land and 0.7 square mile (1.8 km2) (0.49%) is water. The civil township comprises four survey townships: Townships 25 and 26 North in Ranges 3 and 4 East.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,220 people, 553 households, and 374 families residing in the township. The population density was 8.6 PD/sqmi. There were 1,357 housing units at an average density of 9.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 96.23% White, 0.08% African American, 1.56% Native American, 0.16% Asian, 0.49% from other races, and 1.48% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.89% of the population.

There were 553 households, out of which 21.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.9% were married couples living together, 8.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.2% were non-families. 27.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.21 and the average family size was 2.65.

In the township the population was spread out, with 19.9% under the age of 18, 5.7% from 18 to 24, 22.1% from 25 to 44, 29.8% from 45 to 64, and 22.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.4 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $26,094, and the median income for a family was $27,784. Males had a median income of $30,000 versus $20,417 for females. The per capita income for the township was $14,392. About 11.2% of families and 14.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 22.1% of those under age 18 and 6.9% of those age 65 or over.


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Mio, Michigan

Mio is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Oscoda County in the U.S. state of Michigan. It is the county seat of Oscoda County. The population of the CDP was 1,690 at the 2020 census.

Mio is situated along the boundary between Mentor Township on the east, Big Creek Township on the west, and Elmer Township to the northwest. As an unincorporated community, Mio has no legal autonomy as an incorporated municipality.

History
The community was founded in 1881 and was originally called "Mioe", in honor of Marla Deyarmond, the wife of town founder Henry Deyarmond. Other founders included Colige Comins, Reirlo Fosdick, and John Randall. A post office named Mioe opened May 3, 1882. The name changed to Mio on November 21, 1883.

State high temperature record
Mio holds the state record for the highest recorded temperature, when it reached 112 F on July 13, 1936. An identical temperature was also recorded on the same day in the village of Stanwood, in Mecosta County.

PBB contamination event
In 1973, a polybrominated biphenyl (PBB) contamination event caused farmers in the area to destroy their herds. This event occurred when a dock worker accidentally shipped five hundred pounds of fire retardant Fire Master instead of the feed supplement Nutrimaster, leading to the contamination of various farm animals, including cows, pigs, chickens, and sheep. Shortly after, the farmers noticed deformities and sickness among their livestock and newborn calves. More than 35,000 cows were found to be contaminated and had to be destroyed. Out of these, 1,300 were dumped into a clay-lined pit in Mio. As of 2014, PBB is still detectable in the blood tests of some people in this area.

Detroit-area hunters murdered
For nearly eighteen years, Mio was thrust into the local and national media spotlight due to a case involving two Detroit-area hunters who went missing in the fall of 1985. Progress in the investigation was stymied by area residents' refusal to help, citing fears of violent reprisal. On November 21, 1985, childhood friends David Tyll and Brian Ognjan were beaten to death with baseball bats outside of a local bar. The case was eventually cracked in 2003, when two brothers, Raymond and Donald Duvall, both from South Branch, in Iosco County, were convicted of murdering the pair near Mio. It was rumored that the murderers had disposed of the bodies by feeding them to pigs. When the two brothers were sentenced to life in prison without parole, Tyll's father said, "They took my son. It doesn't bring him back, but it's something." A true account of the crimes was detailed in Darker Than Night, a 2006 book by Tom Henderson.

Historical markers
There are two historical markers in Mio.
 * Mio Hydroelectric Plant was built in 1916 on the lower Au Sable River. William W. Tefft, a Consumers Power civil and hydraulic engineer, invented and patented the so-called "conduit spillway", which channels excessive flow through channels built into the plant. This was the first plant to use it, and it is cheaper than other forms of spillways.
 * Oscoda County Courthouse was built in 1888. It was destroyed by a fire on May 5, 2016. Construction of a new building officially began on May 20, 2019, and was completed in February 2020.

Amish community
In 1900, Mio’s first Amish settlers arrived from Geauga County, Ohio. These settlers were considered "Old Order Amish" and followed strict rules. The fairly inexpensive land prices brought in more Amish settlers, and in the first five years, the community grew rapidly. The settlers took advantage of the once wooded land by growing clover, hay, peas, corn, and potatoes, as well as other bumper crops. Eventually, the Old Order Amish began to dwindle in numbers due to a large number joining the Amish-Mennonite congregation, which held more progressive beliefs. In 1954, the Old Order Amish became extinct when the congregation's last bishop passed away. In 1970, a new group of Amish, also from Geauga County, Ohio, settled in Mio, founding the fourth oldest Amish community. The three church district community is home to around 400 individuals. Although many of the Old Order Amish transitioned to following the Mennonite congregation due to their more progressive beliefs, the Amish that are settled in Mio today still follow a strict set of commands. However, Amish commands do vary from community to community.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP had a total area of 8.98 sqmi, of which 8.37 sqmi is land and 0.61 sqmi (6.79%) is water.

The Mio post office, with ZIP Code 48647, also serves the northern portions of Mentor Township and the northeastern part of Big Creek Township, as well as a large area of eastern and southern Elmer Township and smaller portions of western Clinton Township and Comins Township.

Geographic features
Mio, part of Northern Michigan, is situated in the Au Sable River Valley. It is surrounded by the Huron National Forest and near the Rifle River State Recreation Area. The area is part of the Au Sable State Forest, specifically the Grayling Forest Management Unit (Alcona, Crawford, Oscoda, and northern Iosco counties). Much of the area sits on the Grayling outwash plain. The Oscoda County Park is minutes away.

Record high temperature
On July 13, 1936, Mio recorded a daily high temperature of 112 F, which is the highest temperature ever recorded in the state of Michigan.

Education
Mio-AuSable Schools is a Kindergarten through 12th grade school, with all grades contained in one building. Middle school and high school students are enrolled in seven classes each day, and the year routine follows a semester schedule. Mio-AuSable currently offers two Advanced Placement (AP) courses, AP Biology and AP Calculus AB. The school does not offer any Honors courses, but to make up for the lack of advanced classes, students are encouraged to dual-enroll through Kirtland Community College. Sophomores, juniors and seniors can choose to take online classes through the nearby community college, and if the students receive at least a C in a course, they will be granted college credit in that course which may transfer into the university of their choice after high school.

The high school has about approximately 170 students and 17 teachers, some of which double as middle school teachers.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,016 people, 826 households, and 537 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 270.1 PD/sqmi. There were 1,191 housing units at an average density of 159.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 96.83% White, 0.15% African American, 0.55% Native American, 0.10% Asian, 0.25% from other races, and 2.13% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.44% of the population.

There were 826 households, out of which 30.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.4% were married couples living together, 11.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.9% were non-families. 28.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.44 and the average family size was 2.99.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 26.0% under the age of 18, 8.2% from 18 to 24, 27.8% from 25 to 44, 21.9% from 45 to 64, and 16.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.5 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $26,831, and the median income for a family was $31,379. Males had a median income of $29,542 versus $20,927 for females. The per capita income for the community was $13,064. About 13.9% of families and 21.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 33.3% of those under age 18 and 13.4% of those age 65 or over.

Local attractions and activities
The community is centered in the Huron National Forest along the Au Sable River. Wildlife are nearby, including bear, deer, eagles, Kirtland's warblers, and turkeys. Local attractions and activities include:
 * Oscoda County Riverfest
 * Amish community with stores and bakeries
 * Birding
 * Boating, paddling (canoe and kayak)
 * Coptic Orthodox St. Mina Retreat Center
 * Fishing, particularly trout fishing
 * Mio Pond Fishing Tournament (Pike, walleye, and bass)
 * Geocaching
 * Hiking
 * Hunting
 * Kirtland's Warbler Habitat and Festival: The Kirtland's warbler has its habitat in the area. There is a Kirtland's Warbler Festival, which is sponsored in part by Kirtland Community College.
 * Mennonite Relief Expo & Fair
 * Michigan Shore to Shore Riding & Hiking Trail passes through Mio. It runs from Empire to Oscoda, and points north and south.  It is a 500-mile interconnected system of trails.
 * Nordic skiing
 * The Michigan AuSable Valley Railroad is a, 1/4-scale ridable miniature railway, located in Fairview, Michigan. The railroad runs through the scenic Huron National Forest and the Comins Creek valley. It is 6.3 mile away.
 * ORV, motorcycle, and groomed snowmobile trails
 * Steiner's Museum of pioneer artifacts is in nearby Fairview.
 * Our Lady of the Woods Catholic Shrine
 * Timberland Quilt Trail

Local recurring events
There are many recurring local events, including:
 * First Dam Canoe Race (Michigan Canoe Racing Association)
 * Mennonite relief sale
 * Michigan Magazine Craft Show
 * Mio Mud Bogs & Drags
 * Nor-East'r Music & Art Festival
 * Outdoor Sportsmen's Expo
 * Oscoda County Fair & Forestry Exposition

Media
The following can be accessed in Mio, Michigan:

Newspapers

 * The Oscoda County Herald is a weekly publication available on newsstands every Tuesday and by mail on Wednesday. The paper covers news and sports from all of Oscoda County, as well as other nearby communities. It also serves as the paper of record for all municipalities in Oscoda County, and is the only newspaper recognized by the Michigan Press Association that operates inside of Oscoda County. The Oscoda County Herald is owned by Sunrise Printing & Publishing, which also owns the Ogemaw County Herald and the Arenac County Independent.

AM
There are no AM radio stations in range of Mio, Michigan, although WWJ can be heard faintly at night.

title: Mio, Michigan


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Bagley Township, Michigan

Bagley Township is a civil township of Otsego County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 5,867 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * Arbutus Beach is an unincorporated community located on the township line with Otsego Lake Township on the eastern shores of Otsego Lake at 44.94612°N, -84.68336°W. It was settled as a small resort community, and its name comes from both its shoreline on Otsego Lake and the abundant Arbutus in the nearby woods.
 * Eyedylwild Beach is an unincorporated community located on the eastern shores of Otsego Lake at 44.96196°N, -84.7042°W.
 * Oak Grove is an unincorporated community located within the township along the northeast coast of Otsego Lake at 44.97251°N, -84.68253°W. The community was settled by Oris Farrar and named after the numerous oak trees in the area.
 * Pearll City is an unincorporated community located within the township at the northern end of Otsego Lake at 44.98196°N, -84.68364°W.
 * Salling or Sallings was a community established as a station on the Michigan Central Railroad in 1887.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 30.68 sqmi, of which 28.10 sqmi is land and 2.58 sqmi (8.41%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 5,838 people, 2,189 households, and 1,613 families residing in the township. The population density was 203.9 PD/sqmi. There were 3,019 housing units at an average density of 105.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 97.48% White, 0.22% African American, 0.55% Native American, 0.34% Asian, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 0.12% from other races, and 1.27% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.77% of the population.

There were 2,189 households, out of which 37.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.4% were married couples living together, 10.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.3% were non-families. 20.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.66 and the average family size was 3.08.

In the township the population was spread out, with 28.8% under the age of 18, 7.0% from 18 to 24, 30.4% from 25 to 44, 23.1% from 45 to 64, and 10.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.1 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $44,205, and the median income for a family was $50,727. Males had a median income of $36,723 versus $21,388 for females. The per capita income for the township was $21,116. About 5.8% of families and 6.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.9% of those under age 18 and 9.6% of those age 65 or over.

title: Bagley Township, Michigan


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Charlton Township, Michigan

Charlton Township is a civil township of Otsego County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,350 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * Hetherton is an unincorporated community located within the township along the county line with Montmorency County at 45.01251°N, -84.37001°W. The community was settled under the name Briley in 1881 and was located in Montmorency County.  When the community settled into Otsego County in 1885, it became known as Heatherton and soon respelled as Hetherton.
 * Johannesburg is an unincorporated community centered along the M-32 within the township at 44.98557°N, -84.45585°W. The community began as a station on the Michigan Central Railroad and settled around the Johannesburg Manufacturing Company sawmill.  A post office opened on January 7, 1901.  The Johannesburg 49751 ZIP Code serves most of Charlton Township and portions of the surrounded area.  The Johannesburg Manufacturing Company Store was built in 1901 and remains standing in the center of the community.  It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009.
 * Vienna Corners is an unincorporated community located at the western edge of the township on the county line with Montmorency County at 44.97028°N, -84.37083°W.

History
Charlton Township is a community rich in history, as it emerged with lumbering and milling operations in 1875. Johannesburg was incorporated in 1901, home to the lumbering company of Johannesburg Mfg. Co., operated by the Sailing, Hanson and Michelson families. The town was named after Johanna Hanson, who is the wife of the president of the company. The company was responsible for much of the construction in the small town, including the development of a branch railroad line, which served as a lifeline for the town. At its peak, Johannesburg was a bustling community of 700. By 1929, 71 lumbering operations had ceased.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 102.20 sqmi, of which 100.37 sqmi is land and 1.83 sqmi (1.79%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,330 people, 552 households, and 416 families residing in the township. The population density was 13.3 PD/sqmi. There were 1,391 housing units at an average density of 13.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 98.42% White, 0.30% Native American, 0.15% Asian, and 1.13% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.23% of the population.

There were 552 households, out of which 24.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 66.8% were married couples living together, 4.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.6% were non-families. 19.9% 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 2.41 and the average family size was 2.74.

In the township the population was spread out, with 21.5% under the age of 18, 5.3% from 18 to 24, 24.2% from 25 to 44, 32.2% from 45 to 64, and 16.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 44 years. For every 100 females, there were 109.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 108.4 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $36,536, and the median income for a family was $41,200. Males had a median income of $32,578 versus $21,574 for females. The per capita income for the township was $20,211. About 3.3% of families and 6.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.7% of those under age 18 and 3.2% of those age 65 or over.

title: Charlton Township, Michigan


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Chester Township, Otsego County, Michigan

Chester Township is a civil township of Otsego County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,300 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * Farrar Landing is an unincorporated community located on the township line with Otsego Lake Township along Chub Creek at 44.87668°N, -84.60447°W.
 * Lower Chub Landing is an unincorporated community located within the township along Chub Creek at 44.89085°N, -84.58447°W.
 * Whites Landing is an unincorporated community located within the township at 44.90724°N, -84.57252°W.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 68.74 sqmi, of which 67.56 sqmi is land and 1.18 sqmi (1.72%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,265 people, 481 households, and 370 families residing in the township. The population density was 18.7 PD/sqmi. There were 858 housing units at an average density of 12.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 99.21% White, 0.24% African American, 0.08% Asian, 0.08% from other races, and 0.40% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.08% of the population.

There were 481 households, out of which 34.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 65.7% were married couples living together, 7.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 22.9% were non-families. 19.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.9% 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 3.01.

In the township the population was spread out, with 26.1% under the age of 18, 7.4% from 18 to 24, 29.5% from 25 to 44, 23.3% from 45 to 64, and 13.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 102.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 104.6 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $42,368, and the median income for a family was $47,011. Males had a median income of $34,286 versus $20,302 for females. The per capita income for the township was $18,479. About 4.9% of families and 5.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 6.7% of those under age 18 and 2.3% of those age 65 or over.


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Corwith Township, Michigan

Corwith Township is a civil township of Otsego County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,708 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * Green Timbers is an unincorporated community located within the township along the Sturgeon River at 45.17168°N, -84.54114°W.
 * Vanderbilt is a village located within the township at 45.14306°N, -84.66111°W.

History
The first lumbermill in Otsego County was built within Corwith Township at a place called Berryville in 1877.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 108.12 sqmi, of which 107.48 sqmi is land and 0.64 sqmi (0.59%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,719 people, 665 households, and 466 families residing in the township. The population density was 16.0 PD/sqmi. There were 1,000 housing units at an average density of 9.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 97.21% White, 0.23% African American, 1.05% Native American, 0.17% Asian, 0.06% Pacific Islander, 0.41% from other races, and 0.87% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.70% of the population.

There were 665 households, out of which 29.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.0% were married couples living together, 8.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 29.8% were non-families. 24.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.6% 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 2.96.

In the township the population was spread out, with 24.2% under the age of 18, 9.7% from 18 to 24, 28.1% from 25 to 44, 24.3% from 45 to 64, and 13.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 99.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 103.0 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $32,348, and the median income for a family was $38,102. Males had a median income of $25,461 versus $19,511 for females. The per capita income for the township was $15,936. About 7.4% of families and 11.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 13.8% of those under age 18 and 7.5% of those age 65 or over.

title: Corwith Township, Michigan


text:
Dover Township, Otsego County, Michigan

Dover Township is a civil township of Otsego County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 632 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * Sparr is an unincorporated community located within the township along F-44 at 45.0414°N, -84.57253°W. The area was first settled by William Sparr in 1873 and was named after him.  The community of Sparr grew when the Boyne City, Gaylord & Alpena Railroad constructed a line through the township.  A post office opened on May 5, 1915, and operated until February 15, 1932.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 35.22 sqmi, of which 35.17 sqmi is land and 0.04 sqmi (0.14%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 614 people, 214 households, and 163 families residing in the township. The population density was 17.4 PD/sqmi. There were 368 housing units at an average density of 10.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 98.53% White, 0.49% Native American, 0.33% Asian, and 0.65% from two or more races.

There were 214 households, out of which 42.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 67.3% were married couples living together, 5.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.4% were non-families. 20.6% 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 2.86 and the average family size was 3.26.

In the township the population was spread out, with 31.1% under the age of 18, 7.2% from 18 to 24, 30.6% from 25 to 44, 23.0% from 45 to 64, and 8.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 111.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 112.6 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $45,000, and the median income for a family was $48,036. Males had a median income of $31,458 versus $26,042 for females. The per capita income for the township was $22,739. About 4.1% of families and 6.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 9.0% of those under age 18 and 13.7% of those age 65 or over.

title: Dover Township, Otsego County, Michigan


text:
Hayes Township, Otsego County, Michigan

Hayes Township is a civil township of Otsego County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 2,725 at the 2020 census.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 70.64 sqmi, of which 69.15 sqmi is land and 1.49 sqmi (2.11%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,385 people, 846 households, and 693 families residing in the township. The population density was 34.7 PD/sqmi. There were 1,303 housing units at an average density of 18.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 97.53% White, 0.25% African American, 0.84% Native American, 0.38% Asian, 0.17% Pacific Islander, 0.17% from other races, and 0.67% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.75% of the population.

There were 846 households, out of which 41.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 73.8% were married couples living together, 5.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 18.0% were non-families. 13.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 4.1% 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 3.07.

In the township the population was spread out, with 29.3% under the age of 18, 5.7% from 18 to 24, 31.9% from 25 to 44, 23.6% from 45 to 64, and 9.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 104.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 102.5 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $42,969, and the median income for a family was $45,000. Males had a median income of $34,167 versus $21,220 for females. The per capita income for the township was $17,587. About 4.2% of families and 5.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.8% of those under age 18 and 3.7% of those age 65 or over.

title: Hayes Township, Otsego County, Michigan


text:
Otsego Lake Township, Michigan

Otsego Lake Township is a civil township of Otsego County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 2,857 at the 2020 census.

The township takes its name from Otsego Lake, in which the southern half is within the township. Otsego Lake State Park is located in the township on the southeast shore of the lake.

Communities

 * Artubus Beach is an unincorporated community located on the township line with Bagley Township on the eastern shores of Otsego Lake at 44.94612°N, -84.68336°W. It was settled as a small resort community, and its name comes from both its shoreline on Otsego Lake and the abundant Arbutus in the nearby woods.
 * Farrar Landing is an unincorporated community located on the township line with Chester Township along Chub Creek at 44.87668°N, -84.60447°W.
 * Otsego Lake is an unincorporated community located within the township at the southern end of Otsego Lake at 44.91696°N, -84.69253°W. It is centered along the junction of county highways C-38 and F-38 just east of Interstate 75.  The community was settled along the Jackson, Lansing and Saginaw Railroad in 1872 and was named after the lake.  A post office opened on July 23, 1873 and operated until February 15, 1932.  The community served briefly as the first county seat of Otsego County from 1875 to 1877.
 * Waters is an unincorporated community located in the southwestern portion of the township at 44.87974°N, -84.69864°W.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 35.42 sqmi, of which 32.72 sqmi is land and 2.70 sqmi (7.62%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,532 people, 1,070 households, and 786 families residing in the township. The population density was 77.3 PD/sqmi. There were 2,028 housing units at an average density of 61.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 98.30% White, 0.12% African American, 0.36% Native American, 0.04% from other races, and 1.18% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.32% of the population.

There were 1,070 households, out of which 26.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 64.6% were married couples living together, 5.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.5% were non-families. 22.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.6% 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 2.74.

In the township the population was spread out, with 22.3% under the age of 18, 4.4% from 18 to 24, 25.0% from 25 to 44, 27.8% from 45 to 64, and 20.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 44 years. For every 100 females, there were 107.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 101.1 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $44,351, and the median income for a family was $50,403. Males had a median income of $36,927 versus $24,375 for females. The per capita income for the township was $23,350. About 4.5% of families and 6.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 10.4% of those under age 18 and 2.7% of those age 65 or over.

title: Otsego Lake Township, Michigan


text:
Vanderbilt, Michigan

Vanderbilt is a village in Otsego County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 498 at the 2020 census. The village is located within Corwith Township.

Vanderbilt holds the record for the coldest recorded temperature in the state of Michigan when it reached -51 F on February 9, 1934.

History
The area was first settled as early as 1875 when a railway belonging to the Michigan Central Railroad was planned to extend north from Gaylord. The settlement was named after Cornelius Vanderbilt, who owned land within Corwith Township. The railway reached Vanderbilt by 1881.

The village was incorporated in 1901.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 1.09 sqmi, all of it land.

Major highways

 * runs north–south through the western edge of the village and is accessible via exit 290 (Mill Street).

Climate
This climatic region is typified by large seasonal temperature differences, with warm to hot (and often humid) summers and cold (sometimes severely cold) winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Vanderbilt has a humid continental climate, abbreviated "Dfb" on climate maps.

On February 9, 1934, the temperature in Vanderbilt fell to -51 F, the coldest ever recorded in Michigan. On July 13, 1936, the highest temperature recorded in Michigan was in Mio, one county southeast, which reached 112 F.

Education
The village of Vanderbilt contains its own school district, Vanderbilt Area Schools, which also serves a much larger area that includes all of Corwith Township, as well as small portions of several adjacent townships.

2020 Census
As of the census of 2020, there were 498 people, 207 households, and 376 families residing in the village. The population density was 456 inhabitants per square mile (176.29/km^2). There were 257 housing units at an average density of 235 per square mile (57/km^2). The racial makeup of the village was 94.8% White, 1.9% African American, 0.22% Native American, and 2.58% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino if any race were 0.64% of the population.

There were 207 households, of which 21.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.1% were married couples living together, 18.8% had a female householder without a husband present, 21.7% had a male householder without a wife present, and 0.4% were non-families. 182 of all households were made up of individuals, of which 23 of them had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.44 and the average family size was 2.90.

The median age in the village was 45 years. 21.4% of residents were under the age of 18; 31% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 72% were from the age of 25 to 44; 1.14% were from the age of 45 to 64; and 17.1% were 65 years or older. The gender makeup of the village was 59.1% male and 40.9% female.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 562 people, 237 households, and 145 families residing in the village. The population density was 497.3 PD/sqmi. There were 278 housing units at an average density of 246.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 95.6% White, 0.7% African American, 0.9% Native American, and 2.8% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.9% of the population.

There were 237 households, of which 26.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.6% were married couples living together, 13.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 2.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 38.8% were non-families. 33.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.4% 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 3.01.

The median age in the village was 44 years. 21.7% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.9% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 21.9% were from 25 to 44; 30.3% were from 45 to 64; and 18.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 48.8% male and 51.2% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 587 people, 241 households, and 148 families residing in the village. The population density was 530.6 PD/sqmi. There were 269 housing units at an average density of 243.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 97.79% White, 0.17% African American, 1.70% Native American, and 0.34% from two or more races.

There were 241 households, out of which 29.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.5% were married couples living together, 10.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.2% were non-families. 33.6% 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 2.44 and the average family size was 3.09.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 25.7% under the age of 18, 10.6% from 18 to 24, 28.8% from 25 to 44, 20.1% from 45 to 64, and 14.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 98.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 96.4 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $27,969, and the median income for a family was $37,857. Males had a median income of $25,000 versus $19,875 for females. The per capita income for the village was $11,973. None of the families and 6.8% of the population were living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and 8.9% of those over 64.

title: Vanderbilt, Michigan


text:
Allendale, Michigan

Allendale is a census-designated place (CDP) in Ottawa County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 17,579 at the 2010 census. It is located within Allendale Charter Township, occupying approximately the northern two-thirds of the township, from the eastern boundary with the Grand River west along Pierce St., north along 75th Ave., then west along Lake Michigan Drive (M-45) to the western boundary of the township. It is a part of the Grand Rapids-Muskegon-Holland, Michigan combined statistical area, and is an exurb of Grand Rapids, due to its major commuter routes into the city (M-45 and I-96).

The ZIP code 49401 serves all of Allendale and many of the remnant portions of the township, as well as portions of Blendon Township to the south and Georgetown Township to the southeast.

Allendale is named for the township. The township was organized in 1849, state senator Pennoyer changed the name to Allendale, after Agnes Allen, the first person on the tax roll in the area and the widow of Hannibal Allen, who was the son of Revolutionary War hero Ethan Allen.

Allendale is home to the main campus of Grand Valley State University.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 23.7 sqmi, of which 22.8 sqmi is land and 0.9 sqmi (3.79%) is water.

Geographic features

 * Grand River (Michigan)

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 11,555 people, 2,864 households, and 1,913 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 506.1 PD/sqmi. There were 3,016 housing units at an average density of 132.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 93.22% White, 2.97% African American, 0.34% Native American, 0.89% Asian, 0.08% Pacific Islander, 1.45% from other races, and 1.06% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.03% of the population.

There were 2,864 households, out of which 38.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.8% were married couples living together, 6.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 33.2% were non-families. 16.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 3.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.98 and the average family size was 3.36.

In the CDP the population was spread out, with 20.7% under the age of 18, 43.1% from 18 to 24, 22.1% from 25 to 44, 9.6% from 45 to 64, and 4.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 21 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.6 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $46,671, and the median income for a family was $58,371. Males had a median income of $39,038 versus $25,146 for females. The per capita income for the community was $14,580. About 2.4% of families and 12.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 2.5% of those under age 18 and 3.6% of those age 65 or over.

Primary and secondary schools

 * Allendale Public Schools
 * Allendale High School
 * New Options Alternative High School
 * Allendale Middle School
 * Oakwood Intermediate School
 * Springview Elementary
 * Evergreen Elementary
 * Allendale Christian School

Higher education
The main campus of Grand Valley State University, founded in 1960, is located in Allendale on 1237 acre. Grand Valley State University is the fastest growing university in the United States, both in population and physical size, as the university is continually building more facilities. The university is also ranked as one of the top up and coming schools in the Midwest. The university enrolls a total of just under 25,000 students on the Allendale campus and two campuses in the surrounding area, and offers over 200 areas of study, making it the largest university in the Grand Rapids region.

Parks
Allendale Community Park is a 40-acre park situated near the township office. It contains a Veterans Garden of Honor honoring U.S. soldiers. It contains nine statues representing veterans of U.S. wars. One of the statues, installed in 1998, depicting a Confederate and Union soldier standing back-to-back with a young slave crouched between them at their feet, has been controversial for seeming to honor the Confederacy. During the George Floyd protests in 2020, the Allendale Township Board voted on June 30, 2020 to keep it.

On Campus

 * Lubbers Stadium, home of Grand Valley State Laker football.
 * Cook Carillon Tower
 * The Meadows at Grand Valley State University
 * GVSU Fieldhouse

Off Campus

 * Grand River
 * Bass River State Recreation Area
 * Placid Wake Park
 * Grand River Park

Newspapers

 * Grand Valley Lanthorn

Radio

 * WGVU-FM (88.5 FM Allendale/Grand Rapids) – GVSU Public Radio (NPR/Jazz)
 * WCKS "The Whale" – GVSU student run radio

Television

 * WGVU-TV – GVSU PBS member station
 * GVBN – GVSU student run television station

Mass transit

 * Interurban Transit Partnership (The Rapid), is a public regional bus system that provides transit throughout the eastern part of Allendale, GVSU, Grand Rapids and the surrounding areas. It connects Allendale and GVSU with Grand Rapids and GVSU's Pew Campus.

title: Allendale, Michigan


text:
Allendale Charter Township, Michigan

Allendale Charter Township is a charter township of Ottawa County in the U.S. state of Michigan. At the 2020 Census, the township population was 26,583. Allendale Charter Township is best known as being home to the main campus of Grand Valley State University.

Allendale is located in the center of Ottawa County, bordered by Tallmadge Township, Polkton Township, Robinson Township, Blendon Township and Georgetown Township.

History
The land within the current borders of the township has been inhabited by humans since at least ca. 200 BCE to 500 CE, earliest evidence suggests occupation by Goodall focus, a Middle Woodland Hopewellian culture. At the time of European contact, Anishinaabe-speaking peoples, the Odawa and the Potawatomi lived within the current township.

The first documented European in what is now Allendale was Pierre Constant, a French fur trader who established a trading post at Charleston for John Jacob Astor's American Fur Company in 1810. The first permanent European settler was Richard Roberts, of Wales, who purchased one hundred and sixty acres along the Grand River, building a log cabin in 1842 that became known as the Half-way House, as it was situated roughly halfway between Grand Haven and Grandville. Roberts established a sawmill, a blacksmith shop, a wheelwright and a store.

In the winter of 1848–49, a meeting was held at the home of Alexander Milne for the purpose of drafting a petition requesting to become an organized Township, to be called the Township of Isaac. Those attending the meeting, along with Milne, were James Scott, Johnson Balcom, Alexander Scott, Robert Scott, John Hanna and Henry M. Reed. James Scott drew up the township petition which was signed by all of them. The petition was presented to the state legislature by state Senator Henry Pennoyer of Grand Haven. Senator Pennoyer, on his own initiative, substituted Isaac with the (misspelled) Allandale after Agnes Allen, the first name appearing on the tax roll, and the widow of Hannibal Allen, son of Revolutionary War hero Ethan Allen. The spelling was subsequently changed from Allandale to the current Allendale.

In 1854 the township of Blendon was organized, and set off from Allendale.

Communities
There are no incorporated municipalities within the township.

 * Allendale is a census-designated place consisting of the northern two-thirds of the township and the Allendale ZIP code 49401 serves most of the township except for small areas along the southern boundary.
 * Conger was the name of a rural post office in the township from 1899 until 1907.
 * Hudsonville is to the southeast, and the Hudsonville ZIP code serves a small area on the central part of the southern boundary of Allendale Township.
 * Jenison is to the southeast, and the Jenison ZIP code 49428 serves a small area in the southeast corner of the Allendale Township.
 * Pearline, also known as East Allendale, is an unincorporated community about one mile east of Allendale on M-45/Lake Michigan Dr. at 42.97222°N, -85.92417°W. Fruit grower Joh W. Everhart was the first postmaster of a rural post office here, which operated from April 29, 1891, until May 31, 1908.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 32.2 sqmi, of which 31.3 sqmi is land and 0.9 sqmi (2.80%) is water.

The Grand River forms the northern and eastern boundaries of the township. Georgetown Township is to the southeast, Blendon Township to the south, Olive Township to the southwest, Robinson Township to the west. Across the Grand River, Crockery Township is to the northwest, Polkton Township to the north, and Tallmadge Township to the east and northeast.

M-45 crosses east–west through the township, and crosses the Grand River in the east. Except for US-31 in Grand Haven; M-45, 68th Avenue just to the north and M-231 to the west are the only roads to cross the Grand River in Ottawa County.

Climate
Allendale experiences a humid continental climate (Köppen climate classification Dfb), warm to hot summers and cold winters, similar to most of the Midwestern United States. It is often humid in the summer.

Allendale receives 132 inches of measurable precipitation per year, on average 33 inches of rain and 82 inches of snowfall.

There are 162 sunny days per year. The comfort index, based on humidity during the hot months, is a 51 out of 100, where higher is more comfortable. The US average on the comfort index is 44.

Demographics
As of the census of 2010, there were 20,708 people, 3,306 households, and 2,294 families residing in the township. The population density was 661.6 PD/sqmi. There were 3,492 housing units at an average density of 111.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 93.61% White, 2.68% African American, 0.35% Native American, 0.84% Asian, 0.07% Pacific Islander, 1.43% from other races, and 1.01% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents of any race were 2.88% of the population.

There were 3,306 households, out of which 39.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.8% were married couples living together, 5.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.6% were non-families. 15.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 3.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 3.03 and the average family size was 3.41.

In the township, 22.3% of the population was under the age of 18, 39.3% was from 18 to 24, 23.2% from 25 to 44, 10.5% from 45 to 64, and 4.7% was 65 years of age or older. The median age was 21 years. For every 100 females, there were 89.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 85.5 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $48,669, and the median income for a family was $58,576. Males had a median income of $40,419 versus $25,188 for females. The per capita income for the township was $15,065. About 2.8% of families and 11.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 3.9% of those under age 18 and 3.3% of those age 65 or over.

Primary and secondary schools

 * Allendale Public Schools
 * Allendale High School
 * New Options Alternative High School
 * Allendale Middle School
 * Oakwood Intermediate School
 * Evergreen Elementary
 * Allendale Early Childhood Center
 * Allendale Christian School

Higher education
The main campus of Grand Valley State University, founded in 1960, is located in Allendale Charter Township on 1237 acre. Grand Valley State University is the fastest growing university in the United States, both in population and physical size, as the university is continually building more facilities. The university is also ranked one of the top up and coming schools in the Midwest. The university enrolls a total of just under 25,000 students on the Allendale campus and two campuses in the surrounding area, and offers over 200 areas of study, making it the largest university in the Grand Rapids region.

Parks
Allendale Community Park is a 40 acre park situated near the township office. It contains a Veterans Garden of Honor honoring U.S. soldiers. It contains nine statues representing veterans of U.S. wars. One of the statues, installed in 1998, depicting a Confederate and Union soldier standing back-to-back with a young slave crouched between them at their feet, has been controversial for seeming to honor the Confederacy and portraying racial dynamics in a way considered disrespectful to Black people.

During the George Floyd protests in 2020, the civil war statue received heightened scrutiny from local activists. Philomena Mantella, president of Grand Valley State University, suggested that it should be moved and that its presentation should be altered to acknowledge its historical context. The Allendale Township Board voted on June 30, 2020, to keep the statue in the park. Protests on the issue continued through 2021, including the temporary erection of a billboard and multiple acts of vandalism that left the statue disfigured. A contentious second referendum on June 14, 2021, resulted in the statue being retained once again.

On campus

 * Lubbers Stadium, home of Grand Valley State Laker football.
 * Cook Carillon Tower
 * The Meadows at Grand Valley State University
 * GVSU Fieldhouse

Off campus

 * Allendale Township is home to a large number of off campus student housing complexes. As of 2021 there are approximately 8,000 beds according to township assessing records.

 * Grand River
 * Bass River Recreation Area
 * Grand River Park

Newspapers

 * Grand Valley Advance
 * Grand Valley Lanthorn

Radio

 * WGVU-FM (88.5 FM Allendale/Grand Rapids) – GVSU Public Radio (NPR/Jazz)
 * WCKS "The Whale" – GVSU student run radio

Television

 * WGVU-TV – GVSU PBS member station
 * GVBN – GVSU student run television station

Mass transit

 * Interurban Transit Partnership (The Rapid), is a public regional bus system that provides transit throughout the eastern part of Allendale, GVSU, Grand Rapids and the surrounding areas. It connects Allendale and GVSU with Grand Rapids and GVSU's Pew Campus.

title: Allendale Charter Township, Michigan


text:
Beechwood, Michigan

Beechwood is an unincorporated community in Ottawa County in the U.S. state of Michigan. It is a census-designated place (CDP) for statistical purposes, but is not an incorporated municipality. The population was 3,121 at the 2020 census.

The CDP is considered to be part of the Holland urban area. It is located on the north shore of Lake Macatawa mostly within Holland Charter Township, although a small portion lies within Park Township.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the community has a total area of 2.7 sqmi, of which 1.8 sqmi is land and 0.9 sqmi (32.22%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,963 people, 1,107 households, and 770 families residing in the community. The population density was 1,616.3 PD/sqmi. There were 1,169 housing units at an average density of 637.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the community was 86.84% White, 1.21% African American, 0.30% Native American, 4.25% Asian, 0.03% Pacific Islander, 5.50% from other races, and 1.86% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 13.47% of the population.

There were 1,107 households, out of which 36.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.1% were married couples living together, 8.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.4% were non-families. 23.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.9% 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 3.21.

In the community, the population was spread out, with 29.0% under the age of 18, 8.5% from 18 to 24, 33.5% from 25 to 44, 19.3% from 45 to 64, and 9.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 33 years. For every 100 females, there were 104.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 102.7 males.

The median income for a household in the community was $46,676, and the median income for a family was $56,087. Males had a median income of $37,000 versus $30,541 for females. The per capita income for the community was $22,968. About 5.9% of families and 8.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.2% of those under age 18 and 3.8% of those age 65 or over.

title: Beechwood, Michigan


text:
Blendon Township, Michigan

Blendon Township is a civil township of Ottawa County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the township population was 7,081.

History
Blendon Township was formed in 1854. It was named for the Blendon Lumber Company, which owned much of the land in the township at the time.

Communities
There are no incorporated municipalities within the township. There are settlements in the unincorporated communities of Blendon, North Blendon, Borculo (which lies on the western boundary with Olive Township) and Bauer (which lies on the eastern boundary with Georgetown Township).

 * Bauer was established in 1880.
 * Borculo was established in 1867 by Jackus Klamderman and named for it for his place of birth Borculo in the Netherlands. Most of the early settlers were Dutch.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 36.5 sqmi, all land.

Olive Township is to the west, Robinson Township to the northwest, Allendale Charter Township to the north, Georgetown Township to the east, Jamestown Charter Township to the southeast, Zeeland Charter Township to the south, and Holland Charter Township to the southwest.

No major roads pass through the township, although Interstate 196 passes just south of the township. The city of Hudsonville is just southeast of the township, while the cities of Zeeland and Holland are just a short distance to the southwest. Grand Rapids is about 15 miles to the east and Grand Haven is 20 miles to the northwest.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 5,721 people, 1,743 households, and 1,492 families residing in the township. The population density was 156.6 PD/sqmi. There were 1,783 housing units at an average density of 48.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 97.82% White, 0.17% African American, 0.09% Native American, 0.42% Asian, 0.44% from other races, and 1.07% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.94% of the population.

There were 1,743 households, out of which 48.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 79.6% were married couples living together, 4.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 14.4% were non-families. 11.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 3.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 3.28 and the average family size was 3.57.

In the township the population was spread out, with 33.1% under the age of 18, 11.8% from 18 to 24, 29.1% from 25 to 44, 20.4% from 45 to 64, and 5.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 31 years. For every 100 females, there were 103.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 105.9 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $56,094, and the median income for a family was $61,611. Males had a median income of $41,226 versus $31,000 for females. The per capita income for the township was $20,876. About 1.6% of families and 2.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 1.5% of those under age 18 and 8.8% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people

 * John J. Pruis (Borculo, MI) American academic, best known as being a president of Ball State University

title: Blendon Township, Michigan


text:
Chester Township, Ottawa County, Michigan

Chester Township is a civil township of Ottawa County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 United States Census, the township population was 2,096.

Communities
There are no incorporated municipalities within the township. There are a few unincorporated communities and homeowners associations:
 * Conklin, in the southwest part of the township at 43.12889°N, -85.88139°W was a station on the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad, with its post office first opening in June 1887 and continues to service most of the township with ZIP code 49403.Conklin3.jpg
 * Crockery Lake, a homeowners' association on Crockery Lake near the center of the township.
 * Harrisburg, on the north branch of Crockery Creek in the northwest of the township at 43.19194°N, -85.87389°W, was a station on the Toledo, Saginaw and Muskegon Railway, with a post office operating from December 1888 until February 1907.
 * Gooding, on the eastern boundary with Sparta Township in Kent County, was a station on the Toledo, Saginaw and Muskegon Railway in Kent County. A post office was established in November 1888 and named after storekeeper/postmaster Richard J. Gooding. In June 1918, the post office was transferred to a site on the Ottawa County side and remained in operation until January 1923. The most noticeable remnant of Gooding is Gooding Street, which runs east–west across the township, passing just south of Crockery Lake. The street continues as 13 Mile Road in Kent County and as Ellis Road in Muskegon County.
 * Lisbon, a mile south of Gooding, was settled by New Yorker John Pintler (1846). In 1848, Pintler's Corners Post Office was established; in 1859 the name of the Post Office was changed to Lisbon. In March 1869, a village was incorporated, extending a half-section in each direction from the northwest corner of section 30 of Sparta Township (thus including a quarter section of section 19 to the north in Sparta Township as well as quarter sections of sections 24 and 25 in Chester Township. However, railroad lines bypassed the village and it did not prosper, eventually disincorporating.

Geography
The township protrudes to the north of the rest of Ottawa County, and is bounded on the west and north by Muskegon County and on the east by Kent County. Polkton Township lies to the southwest and Wright Township to the south.

No major roads pass through the township, although Interstate 96 passes just to the south. The city of Coopersville is just a few miles to the southwest. Grand Haven is about 20 mi to the west, while Grand Rapids is about 15 mi to the southeast.

The northern part of the township is drained by the north branch of Crockery Creek, a tributary of the Grand River that flows mostly westward in the township. The southern portion is drained by branches of Rio Grande Creek, which flow mostly westward before joining Crockery Creek just south of Ravenna. A small area in the southwest corner is drained by Beaver Creek, which flows mostly south into Deer Creek just about a mile before Deer Creek enters the Grand River in Polkton Township. A small area in the southeast of the township is drained by Nash Creek, which flows east to the Rogue River. Crockery Lake, on the Crockery Creek near the center of the township, is the only sizeable body of water in the township. The highest point in Conklin is approximately 1 mi from Crockery Lake by Gooding Street and 24th Avenue.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 35.9 sqmi, of which 35.7 sqmi is land and 0.2 sqmi (0.47%) is water.

Grose Park is a 40 acre county park overlooking the north side of Crockery Lake and provides recreational opportunities including swimming, fishing, sand volleyball and picnicking. There is about one mile (1.6 km) of hiking trails along Lange Creek. Major improvements were made in 2000 to Grose Park as part of a $660,000 renovation with about 60% of the funding coming from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund.

Zip Codes

 * Conklin-49403

School Districts

 * Sparta Area Schools
 * Kent City Community Schools
 * Ravenna Public Schools
 * Coopersville Public Schools

Demographics
As of the 2000 United States Census, there were 2,315 people, 714 households, and 579 families in the township. The population density was 64.9 PD/sqmi. There were 793 housing units at an average density of 22.2 per square mile (8.6/km$2$). The racial makeup of the township was 94.43% White, 0.78% African American, 0.13% Native American, 0.22% Asian, 3.63% from other races, and 0.82% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 6.22% of the population.

There were 714 households, out of which 41.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 70.3% were married couples living together, 6.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 18.9% were non-families. 14.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 4.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.99 and the average family size was 3.32.

The township population contained 30.9% under the age of 18, 7.9% from 18 to 24, 31.1% from 25 to 44, 18.5% from 45 to 64, and 11.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 104.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 103.0 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $46,328, and the median income for a family was $51,900. Males had a median income of $39,286 versus $27,159 for females. The per capita income for the township was $18,197. About 6.0% of families and 10.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 9.0% of those under age 18 and 4.1% of those age 65 or over.


text:
Ferrysburg, Michigan

Ferrysburg is a city in Ottawa County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 2,892 at the 2010 census.

Spring Lake Township borders the city on the north and east, though it is administratively autonomous. The village of Spring Lake is located to the southeast, on the opposite side of Spring Lake from Ferrysburg. The city of Grand Haven is located to the south, on the opposite side of the Grand River. Lake Michigan is to the west of the city.

US 31 passes north-south through the city and M-104 has its western terminus at US 31 in Ferrysburg.

History
Settlement in the area of Ferrysburg began in the 1830s by William Montague Ferry and his family. It was platted in 1857.

Geography
The city is situated on the north side of the Grand River at its mouth on Lake Michigan. The harbor of Grand Haven and Spring Lake form the southern boundary of the city.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 3.59 sqmi, of which 2.99 sqmi is land and 0.60 sqmi is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 2,892 people, 1,287 households, and 809 families residing in the city. The population density was 967.2 PD/sqmi. There were 1,565 housing units at an average density of 523.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.8% White, 0.5% African American, 0.6% Native American, 0.6% Asian, 0.5% from other races, and 2.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.5% of the population.

There were 1,287 households, of which 24.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.4% were married couples living together, 9.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 2.7% had a male householder with no wife present, and 37.1% were non-families. 31.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.24 and the average family size was 2.79.

The median age in the city was 47.1 years. 20% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 20.2% were from 25 to 44; 33.1% were from 45 to 64; and 20% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 46.5% male and 53.5% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 3,040 people, 1,315 households, and 853 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,022.2 PD/sqmi. There were 1,501 housing units at an average density of 504.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.35% White, 0.59% African American, 0.76% Native American, 0.89% Asian, 0.49% from other races, and 0.92% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.28% of the population.

There were 1,315 households, out of which 27.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.0% were married couples living together, 7.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.1% were non-families. 29.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.31 and the average family size was 2.86.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 22.7% under the age of 18, 7.3% from 18 to 24, 26.6% from 25 to 44, 29.1% from 45 to 64, and 14.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.5 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $53,622, and the median income for a family was $65,231. Males had a median income of $42,875 versus $27,270 for females. The per capita income for the city was $31,254. About 1.3% of families and 3.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 2.4% of those under age 18 and none of those age 65 or over.

Climate
This climatic region is typified by large seasonal temperature differences, with warm to hot (and often humid) summers and cold (sometimes severely cold) winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Ferrysburg has a humid continental climate, abbreviated "Dfb" on climate maps.

title: Ferrysburg, Michigan


text:
Georgetown Township, Michigan

Georgetown Charter Township is a charter township of Ottawa County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 54,091 at the time of the 2020 census. The city of Hudsonville is adjacent to the township and the unincorporated community of Jenison is within the township, which includes about half the township's population.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 34.1 sqmi, of which 33.5 sqmi is land and 0.6 sqmi (1.91%) is water.

History
European-American settlement of Georgetown Township was begun in 1834 by the brothers Hiram and Samuel Jenison.

Demographics
At the 2020 census there were 54,091 people, 19,164 households, and 14,290 families living in the township. The population density was 1631.1 PD/sqmi. There were 19,878 housing units at an average density of 559.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 90.45% White, 1.32% Black or African American, 0.24% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.48% Asian, 0.02% Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander, 1.32% from some other race, and 5.19% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.30%.

Of the 14,099 households 41.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 71.9% were married couples living together, 5.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 21.0% were non-families. 15.7% of households were one person and 7.6% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.92 and the average family size was 3.29.

The age distribution was 29.4% under the age of 18, 10.9% from 18 to 24, 27.5% from 25 to 44, 21.6% from 45 to 64, and 10.6% 65 or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 91.7 males.

The median household income was $58,936 and the median family income was $65,557. Males had a median income of $50,111 versus $28,894 for females. The per capita income for the township was $22,323. About 1.9% of families and 4.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 3.0% of those under age 18 and 5.0% of those age 65 or over.

Communities

 * Jenison (unincorporated area)

Education
Jenison Public Schools operates public schools in the Jenison area. Hudsonville Public Schools operates public schools in the Hudsonville area.

Notable residents

 * Glenn Duffie Shriver, American convicted of conspiracy to spy for China

title: Georgetown Township, Michigan


text:
Grand Haven, Michigan

Grand Haven is a city within the U.S. state of Michigan and the county seat of Ottawa County. Grand Haven is located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan at the mouth of the Grand River, for which it is named. As of the 2020 census, Grand Haven had a population of 11,011. The city is home to the Grand Haven Memorial Airpark (3GM) and is located just north of Grand Haven Charter Township.

History
The Potawatomi and Ottawa Native Americans lived in the area for centuries and used the river as a trade route into the interior of Michigan. Some of the long cultures of the Ottawa tribe is being revealed through the excavation of archeological artifacts.

The city dates its European-American founding to French colonial settlers. A fur trading outpost called Gabagouache was first established by Madeline La Framboise and her husband Joseph.

After the War of 1812, this area became more settled by Americans. A trading post was established here about 1821 by the American Fur Company, but the first permanent resident was a Presbyterian minister, William Montague Ferry, who founded in 1834 the first area church. Settler Rix Robinson named the town "Grand Haven" in 1835. Sheldon Tannery was founded in 1838, developing to process leathers from the fur trade and cattle. The second church was organized in 1850. Ferry founded the city's first bank in 1851 in the Ferry & Son building on Harbor Drive. He also started a school, Ferry Elementary, which continues to operate. The city was incorporated in 1867.

In the mid-to-late 19th century, Grand Haven developed as a logging, lumber mill, and shipping town, as well as a shipbuilding center.

The city was served by the Grand Trunk Railway, which ran along the waterfront near the river. Its depot and offices have been adapted for use as a historical museum. The Story and Clark Piano Company built pianos in the city from 1900 to 1984. The smokestack at the piano factory collapsed during the Southern Great Lakes Derecho of 1998. In August 2006, Eagle-Ottawa Leather Co., which developed from the 1838 Sheldon Tannery, announced it would close its local operations that year.

Given the importance of shipping and water trade to the city, the Grand Haven Lighthouses were built in 1839 on the south pier, to mark the most navigable channel into the river. The current lighthouses, painted red, were built in 1875 (outer light) and 1905 (inner). They are connected by a lighted catwalk, which runs along the pier to the shore.

George "Baby Face" Nelson and Homer Van Meter, who became notorious 1930s criminals, committed their first bank robbery at a Grand Haven bank. Nelson teamed up with Eddie Bentz to rob the People's Saving Bank on the corner of 3rd St. and Washington Ave. Bullet holes can still be found in some of the neighboring brick buildings.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 7.36 sqmi, of which 5.77 sqmi is land and 1.59 sqmi is water.

Climate
According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Grand Haven has a warm-summer humid continental climate, abbreviated "Dfb" on climate maps. The hottest temperature recorded in Grand Haven was 98 F on June 4, 2023, while the coldest temperature recorded was -13 F on February 20, 2015.

Demographics
Grand Haven is part of the Grand Rapids Metropolitan Area, which had a population of 1,027,703 in 2014.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 10,412 people, 4,769 households, and 2,721 families living in the city. The population density was 1804.5 PD/sqmi. There were 5,815 housing units at an average density of 1007.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.0% White, 0.7% African American, 0.9% Native American, 1.0% Asian, 0.4% from other races, and 1.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.4% of the population.

There were 4,769 households, of which 24.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.1% were married couples living together, 11.0% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 42.9% were non-families. 37.2% 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 2.15 and the average family size was 2.82.

The median age in the city was 42.9 years. 20.7% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24.2% were from 25 to 44; 28.5% were from 45 to 64; and 19.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.4% male and 52.6% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 11,168 people, 4,979 households, and 2,892 families living in the city. The population density was 1,923.5 PD/sqmi. There were 5,532 housing units at an average density of 952.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.35% White, 0.45% African American, 0.56% Native American, 0.87% Asian, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 0.40% from other races, and 1.35% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.58% of the population.

There were 4,979 households, out of which 23.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.5% were married couples living together, 9.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 41.9% were non-families. 34.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.17 and the average family size was 2.81.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 20.1% under the age of 18, 9.2% from 18 to 24, 27.6% from 25 to 44, 23.4% from 45 to 64, and 19.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 89.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 86.0 males.

Business and tourism
The Grand Haven port community is an active beach resort with boating, fishing, sailing, biking, skating etc. along with connecting campgrounds and recreational areas. The city has over 100 mi of bike trails, a state beach, boardwalk, two lighthouses, a pier, wharf, large charter fishing fleet and a Great Lakes port, where it imports limestone, slag, cement and coal while exporting sand. Grand Haven is a destination point for residents of inland cities of West Michigan, as well as many from the other side of the state. Grand Rapidians regularly visit to take advantage of the close proximity to the Lake Michigan beaches, State campgrounds, restaurants, bars, attractions with many even owning cottages in the area as their home away from home.

Grand Haven State Park contains beaches which, in summer, water temperatures reach the low 70s°F (2013 had 19 days in the 70s), bringing tens of thousands of visitors as a boon to the local economy.

The state park also includes a campground on Lake Michigan, near the pier and lighthouses. In addition, the city features a ski park (Mulligan's Hollow Ski Bowl) and a skate park. The waterfront locations bring tourists from all over the state and region for activities which include, boating, sailing, jet skiing, tubing, and wind surfing.

Grand Haven is home to the United States Coast Guard's "Sector Field Office Grand Haven." The first Coast Guard presence in the city was in 1924. The Coast Guard cutter Escanaba was based in the city until the Second World War. After it was sunk by a U-boat of Nazi Germany's Kriegsmarine, the citizens of Grand Haven raised more than $1,000,000 in bonds to build a replacement cutter bearing the same name; several pieces of wreckage remain displayed on the city's waterfront. Grand Haven hosts the annual Coast Guard Festival, a celebration based on Coast Guard Day, which draws U.S. and Canadian vessels along with parades of bands and other activities, including a memorial to the 101 sailors lost in the Escanaba sinking. The yearly attendance for this event exceeds 300,000 people over the two-week period of the festival. Grand Haven is the first city officially designated as Coast Guard City, USA by an act of Congress signed by President Bill Clinton. The act was Public Law 105-383 enacted by the United States Congress and signed by the president on November 13, 1998. The Grand Haven Musical Fountain was built on the opposite bank of the Grand River from the city center in 1962. It plays nightly during the tourist season. When it was built, it was the world's largest such fountain. Today, the overall largest fountain is in Las Vegas.

The City of Grand Haven has many parks. These include a large section of beach on Lake Michigan, a ski hill, and multiple boat launches. Duncan Woods (officially Duncan Memorial Park) is one of the largest sections of unspoiled virgin forest in the entire lower peninsula of Michigan. In these woods, visitors get to see what Michigan looked like before the deforestation of the lumber era.

Technology
Grand Haven has been one of many technology leaders in West Michigan and throughout the country, having been featured in the national media, including on ABC, in PCWorld, ComputerWorld and Forbes magazine. The city was the first municipality in the country to feature a citywide wireless internet service. The wireless service is designed to work throughout the city and up to 15 mi offshore for boaters. In 2004, the city started offering wireless internet service for residents, businesses and visitors for payment on varying cost-time scales.

Education
Grand Haven public schools:
 * Grand Haven High School
 * Central High School
 * White Pines Intermediate School
 * Lakeshore Middle School
 * Voyagers School
 * Rosy Mound Elementary
 * Robinson Elementary
 * Peach Plains Elementary
 * Mary A. White Elementary
 * Lake Hills Elementary
 * Griffin Elementary
 * Ferry Elementary

Private schools:
 * Grand Haven Christian School
 * St. John's Lutheran School

Highways

 * runs through the city along a boulevard and utilizes a drawbridge over the Grand River at the northern city limit.
 * runs easterly from US 31 in Ferrysburg, through Spring Lake and toward I-96.

Media
The area is served by the daily newspaper Grand Haven Tribune, headquartered in Grand Haven. The Tribune has a circulation of 8,813.

The city has several radio stations, including WGHN (AM), WGHN-FM, WMPA, Oldies 94.9, and WAWL.

Notable people

 * Howard Bailey, Major League Baseball pitcher
 * Neal Ball, first player in Major League Baseball to execute an unassisted triple play (accomplished in 1909)
 * BØRNS, indie-pop singer-songwriter, EP "Candy"
 * Dan Bylsma, former NHL player, Stanley Cup winner (coaching), former head coach of Pittsburgh Penguins and Buffalo Sabres, former assistant coach of Detroit Red Wings
 * Thomas W. Ferry, U.S. Senator who served as President pro tempore of the United States Senate
 * William Montague Ferry a Presbyterian minister, missionary, and community leader who founded several settlements in Ottawa County.
 * Mike Teeter, former NFL special teams player

title: Grand Haven, Michigan


text:
Grand Haven Charter Township, Michigan

Grand Haven Charter Township is a charter township of Ottawa County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 18,004 at the 2020 census. The Grand Haven Township is located immediately south of Grand Haven.

Communities

 * Agnew is an unincorporated village in this Township near the junction of US 31 and M-45.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the Township has a total area of 29.5 sqmi, of which 28.7 sqmi is land and 0.8 sqmi (2.83%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 13,278 people, 4,609 households, and 3,811 families residing in the township. The population density was 463.6 PD/sqmi. There were 5,042 housing units at an average density of 176.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the Township was 97.15% White, 0.12% African American, 0.35% Native American, 0.56% Asian, 0.01% Pacific Islander, 0.67% from other races, and 1.14% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.90% of the population.

There were 4,609 households, out of which 44.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 72.1% were married couples living together, 7.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 17.3% were non-families. 13.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 4.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.87 and the average family size was 3.16.

In the Township the population was spread out, with 30.4% under the age of 18, 6.6% from 18 to 24, 29.8% from 25 to 44, 25.0% from 45 to 64, and 8.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 96.8 males.

The median income for a household in the Township was $62,380, and the median income for a family was $68,237. Males had a median income of $48,389 versus $28,520 for females. The per capita income for the Township was $25,025. About 1.0% of families and 2.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 1.2% of those under age 18 and 3.2% of those age 65 or over.

Major highways

 * bisects the Township from north to south, running from Grand Haven to the north and Holland to the south.
 * also bisects the Township from east to west, running east from to Allendale Charter Township then on to Grand Rapids.

Sports

 * Grand Haven Golf Club

title: Grand Haven Charter Township, Michigan


text:
Holland Charter Township, Michigan

Holland Charter Township is a charter township of Ottawa County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the population was 38,276.

The City of Holland is adjacent to the south and is administratively autonomous.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 27.5 sqmi, of which 27.2 sqmi is land and 0.3 sqmi (1.02%) is water.

Communities
Noordeloos is an unincorporated community located in the township. Beechwood is a census-designated place located mostly within the township, with a small portion lying in adjacent Park Township.

Demographics
As of the 2020 United States Census, there were 38,276 people living in the township. 59.6% were non-Hispanic White, 2.9% Black or African American, 7.1% Asian, 1.3% Native American, and 10.5% of two or more races. 27.8% were Hispanic or Latino.

History
The former village of Cedar Swamp, located in sections 27 and 28 of Holland Township, was platted and recorded in 1848 by Albertus van Raalte, who also founded Holland, Michigan. By 1853 the population of the township was 1,418. Initially, Holland Township included present-day Park Township and Zeeland Township, with Zeeland Township breaking off in 1851.

title: Holland Charter Township, Michigan


text:
Hudsonville, Michigan

Hudsonville is a city in Ottawa County in the U.S. state of Michigan and is part of the Grand Rapids metropolitan area. The population was 7,629 at the 2020 US Census. Hudsonville is nicknamed "Michigan's Salad Bowl."

History
Hudsonville was platted in 1873, soon after the Chicago and West Michigan Railway was extended to that point. The town was named for Homer E. Hudson, a pioneer settler, who was also the town's first postmaster. The early settlement of Hudsonville was next to a swamp, which hampered early development. In 1872, construction of the Chicago and West Michigan Railroad was completed. The railroad brought more settlers to the area, including many Dutch immigrants.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 4.54 sqmi, all land.

Points of interest
Terra Square is a mixed-use community center, located in downtown Hudsonville at 3380 Chicago Drive. Terra Square offers an event space and a work space, in addition to hosting the Hudsonville Farmers Market.

Hudsonville Nature Center is located at the east end of New Holland Dr. and features 5.4 miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and lookouts in a 76 acre nature preserve.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 7,116 people, 2,582 households, and 1,901 families living in the city. The population density was 1718.8 PD/sqmi. There were 2,712 housing units at an average density of 655.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.3% White, 1.5% African American, 0.4% Native American, 0.8% Asian, 1.3% from other races, and 1.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.2% of the population.

There were 2,582 households, of which 37.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.4% were married couples living together, 9.8% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 26.4% were non-families. 23.0% 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 2.71 and the average family size was 3.20. The median age in the city was 33.5 years. 28.4% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 25.8% were from 25 to 44; 22.5% were from 45 to 64; and 14.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.7% male and 52.3% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 7,160 people, 2,514 households, and 1,920 families living in the city. The population density was 1,729.1 PD/sqmi. There were 2,598 housing units at an average density of 627.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.71% White, 0.47% African American, 0.27% Native American, 0.41% Asian, 0.01% Pacific Islander, 0.39% from other races, and 0.74% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.45% of the population.

There were 2,514 households, out of which 39.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 66.4% were married couples living together, 7.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.6% were non-families. 20.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.6% 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 3.26.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 30.8% under the age of 18, 9.5% from 18 to 24, 28.2% from 25 to 44, 16.6% from 45 to 64, and 14.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females, there were 91.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.6 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $46,961, and the median income for a family was $55,372. Males had a median income of $41,418 versus $26,554 for females. The per capita income for the city was $19,286. About 2.4% of families and 4.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.8% of those under age 18 and 3.6% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people

 * Bethany Balcer, professional soccer player grew up in Hudsonville
 * Taylor Lautner, actor, was born and raised in Hudsonville until age 11
 * John Vander Wal, Major League Baseball (MLB) player, grew up in Hudsonville

title: Hudsonville, Michigan