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Fulton Township, Michigan

Fulton Township is a civil township of Gratiot County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 2,484 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * The village of Perrinton is within the township.
 * Middleton is an unincorporated community in the township, about one mile west of Perrinton and just north of Fulton High School on M-57 at 43.18333°N, -84.70889°W. The ZIP code is 48856.
 * Pompeii is an unincorporated community in the township about four miles east of Perrinton on the boundary with neighboring Washington Township at 43.18389°N, -84.60083°W.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 35.8 sqmi, of which 35.2 sqmi is land and 0.6 sqmi (1.57%) is water. The township contains portions of the Maple River State Game Area.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,413 people, 884 households, and 670 families residing in the township. The population density was 68.5 PD/sqmi. There were 963 housing units at an average density of 27.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 96.77% White, 0.17% African American, 0.46% Native American, 0.04% Asian, 1.08% from other races, and 1.49% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.36% of the population.

There were 884 households, out of which 33.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 64.4% were married couples living together, 8.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.1% were non-families. 19.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.68 and the average family size was 3.06.

In the township the population was spread out, with 26.4% under the age of 18, 7.5% from 18 to 24, 28.8% from 25 to 44, 24.3% from 45 to 64, and 12.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 98.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.1 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $41,667, and the median income for a family was $48,060. Males had a median income of $36,319 versus $27,452 for females. The per capita income for the township was $19,101. About 8.0% of families and 10.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 12.6% of those under age 18 and 8.2% of those age 65 or over.

title: Fulton Township, Michigan


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Hamilton Township, Gratiot County, Michigan

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

Communities

 * Sickles is an unincorporated community in the township on the Bad River at 43.27778°N, -84.44889°W.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 34.9 sqmi, of which 34.8 sqmi is land and 0.1 sqmi (0.20%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 491 people, 182 households, and 137 families residing in the township. The population density was 14.1 PD/sqmi. There were 191 housing units at an average density of 5.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 97.56% White, 1.22% Native American, 0.41% Asian, 0.20% from other races, and 0.61% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.83% of the population.

There were 182 households, out of which 36.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 63.2% were married couples living together, 9.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.7% were non-families. 18.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.70 and the average family size was 3.12.

In the township the population was spread out, with 25.7% under the age of 18, 10.0% from 18 to 24, 30.3% from 25 to 44, 20.2% 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 99.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.1 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $46,607, and the median income for a family was $48,750. Males had a median income of $33,125 versus $26,250 for females. The per capita income for the township was $18,715. None of the families and 3.1% of the population were living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and 9.0% of those over 64.

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


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Ithaca, Michigan

Ithaca is a city and the county seat of Gratiot County, Michigan. It is located very near the geographical center of the state's lower peninsula. The population was 2,910 at the 2010 census. Ithaca is run as a council-manager government. It sits at the conjunction of four townships in the center of the county: Emerson Township to the northeast, Arcada Township to the northwest, Newark Township to the southwest, and North Star Township to the southeast, but is administratively autonomous.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 5.28 sqmi, of which 5.23 sqmi is land and 0.05 sqmi is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 2,910 people, 1,188 households, and 765 families residing in the city. The population density was 556.4 PD/sqmi. There were 1,293 housing units at an average density of 247.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.7% White, 0.5% African American, 0.9% Native American, 0.6% Asian, 1.5% from other races, and 1.8% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 6.2% of the population.

There were 1,188 households, of which 31.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.0% were married couples living together, 13.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.6% had a male householder with no wife present, and 35.6% were non-families. 30.6% 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 2.36 and the average family size was 2.88.

The median age in the city was 39.2 years. 23.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.9% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 25.2% were from 25 to 44; 26.7% were from 45 to 64; and 15.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.5% male and 52.5% female.

Parks
Ithaca has four parks within the city limits. These include the Woodland Park, Atkinson Park, McNabb Park, and the Ithaca Dog Park. Woodland park is a large park for children, including a playscape and much playground equipment like slides and swings. The park also has a large sledding hill and an ice skating rink. Inside the Woodland park to the North end site the Ithaca Dog park which was started and finished in the summer of 2012. Atkinson Park is much quieter and is a senior favorite as it is very close to the community Senior Center and senior housing. McNabb Park can be found in the South of the town and is home to many events throughout the year, including the Gratiot Agricultural Society Expo and AYSO soccer games. McNabb park also has several biking and hiking paths to enjoy.

Schools
Ithaca has one unified public school system, which is spread out over three buildings (covering the communities of Ithaca, Sumner, North Star and the surrounding townships). The school mascot is Jack, a yellow jacket. The high school has tennis facilities which host matches with area teams. The school's football and soccer stadium was recently renovated with funding from both public and private donors. The stadium was completed over the course of the summer of 2012 and features renovated concessions and bathroom facilities, as well as renovated seating and a new concourse. Since 1998 there has been a student exchange program with a German school, Goethe-Gymnasium Ludwigslust. Every year, a small group of students and a chaperone travel to Germany for two weeks to experience German life with their host family. They, in turn, host a German student for two weeks later in the school year.

National Register of Historic Places
The following properties and districts in Ithaca are listed on the National Register of Historic Places registry:
 * Gratiot County Courthouse
 * Ithaca Downtown Historic District

History
Along with the Native Americans, the first recorded settler in Ithaca was James J. Bush from Howell, Michigan in 1850. John Jeffery, from New York State, bought land in 1853, and permanently relocated on the land in 1855. He platted the area in 1856, assisted by Sidney S. Hastings, calling it Gratiot Center and laying out streets, lots, blocks, and even alleys. Gratiot Center was the name of its first post office, granted on November 16, 1855 with John Knight as the first postmaster. In 1856 the site was named as the county seat of Gratiot County. The settlement's name was changed on April 13, 1857 to Ithaca, after Ithaca, New York. Ithaca was incorporated as a village in 1869 and became a city in 1961.

Notable people from Ithaca

 * Richard J. Allen (born 1933), former member of the Michigan Legislature and executive director of the Michigan State Fair.
 * Roy Beechler (1880 – 1946), American football player and coach.
 * Chris Patrick (born 1984), former pro football player.
 * James M. Swift (1873 – 1946), lawyer, District Attorney of Massachusetts Southern District and Attorney General of Massachusetts.

title: Ithaca, Michigan


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Lafayette Township, Michigan

Lafayette Township is a civil township of Gratiot County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 516 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * Edgewood is an unincorporated community in the township on the Bad River at 43.29194°N, -84.42889°W.
 * Galloway is an unincorporated community on the boundary between Lafayette Township and Lakefield Township in Saginaw County.
 * Langport is an unincorporated community in the township at 43.365°N, -84.38972°W.
 * Rathbone is an unincorporated community in the township 43.33583°N, -84.42972°W.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 36.0 sqmi, all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 656 people, 239 households, and 184 families residing in the township. The population density was 18.2 PD/sqmi. There were 261 housing units at an average density of 7.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 95.43% White, 0.30% African American, 0.61% Native American, 3.20% from other races, and 0.46% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.42% of the population.

There were 239 households, out of which 37.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 63.6% were married couples living together, 8.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.0% were non-families. 19.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.69 and the average family size was 3.05.

In the township the population was spread out, with 27.1% under the age of 18, 9.5% from 18 to 24, 30.3% from 25 to 44, 19.2% from 45 to 64, and 13.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 106.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 101.7 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $43,229, and the median income for a family was $45,703. Males had a median income of $37,292 versus $21,563 for females. The per capita income for the township was $17,203. About 3.9% of families and 6.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 1.8% of those under age 18 and 8.0% of those age 65 or over.

title: Lafayette Township, Michigan


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New Haven Township, Gratiot County, Michigan

New Haven Township is a civil township of Gratiot County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,064 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * Gardenville was the name of a post office in the western part of the township from 1895 until 1902.
 * New Haven Center is an unincorporated community in the township at 43.24889°N, -84.77722°W. A post office operated there from September 1863 until December 1904.
 * Sethton is an unincorporated community in the township at 43.21972°N, -84.7775°W. It was at first a trading point in the township, named for Seth Gardner. A post office operated from June 1882 to October 1885 and again from August 1887 to December 1904.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 35.6 square miles (92.2 km$2$), of which 35.5 square miles (92.0 km$2$) is land and 0.1 square mile (0.2 km$2$) (0.22%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,016 people, 351 households, and 269 families residing in the township. The population density was 28.6 PD/sqmi. There were 377 housing units at an average density of 10.6 per square mile (4.1/km$2$). The racial makeup of the township was 99.21% White, 0.20% Native American, 0.10% from other races, and 0.49% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.38% of the population.

There were 351 households, out of which 38.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 69.5% were married couples living together, 4.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.1% were non-families. 18.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.8% 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 3.23.

In the township, the population was spread out, with 30.1% under the age of 18, 6.0% from 18 to 24, 29.5% from 25 to 44, 21.0% from 45 to 64, and 13.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 100.0 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $39,048, and the median income for a family was $44,306. Males had a median income of $37,500 versus $22,292 for females. The per capita income for the township was $16,085. About 9.3% of families and 13.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 18.3% of those under age 18 and 7.4% of those age 65 or over.


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Newark Township, Michigan

Newark Township is a civil township of Gratiot County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,112 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * The city of Ithaca is at the northeast corner of the township, but is administratively autonomous.
 * Newark is an unincorporated community in the township at 43.24861°N, -84.70972°W. A post office operated from August 1857 to May 1860 and again from December 1863 to April 1902.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 34.4 sqmi, all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,149 people, 399 households, and 314 families residing in the township. The population density was 33.4 PD/sqmi. There were 420 housing units at an average density of 12.2 per square mile (4.7/km$2$). The racial makeup of the township was 93.91% White, 0.35% African American, 0.35% Asian, 3.31% from other races, and 2.09% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.70% of the population.

There were 399 households, out of which 36.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 67.9% were married couples living together, 6.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 21.3% were non-families. 18.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.78 and the average family size was 3.12.

In the township the population was spread out, with 29.1% under the age of 18, 8.7% from 18 to 24, 26.2% from 25 to 44, 22.8% from 45 to 64, and 13.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 99.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 99.8 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $44,659, and the median income for a family was $49,722. Males had a median income of $33,333 versus $27,125 for females. The per capita income for the township was $17,269. About 1.9% of families and 3.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 3.0% of those under age 18 and 7.8% of those age 65 or over.

title: Newark Township, Michigan


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North Shade Township, Michigan

North Shade Township is a civil township of Gratiot County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 558 at the 2020 census.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 35.6 sqmi, of which 35.6 sqmi is land and 0.03% is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 706 people, 237 households, and 196 families residing in the township. The population density was 19.8 per square mile (7.7/km$2$). There were 260 housing units at an average density of 7.3 per square mile (2.8/km$2$). The racial makeup of the township was 98.30% White, 0.28% from other races, and 1.42% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.56% of the population.

There were 237 households, out of which 40.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 74.3% were married couples living together, 7.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 16.9% were non-families. 13.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.5% 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 3.28.

In the township the population was spread out, with 31.6% under the age of 18, 6.9% from 18 to 24, 27.9% from 25 to 44, 21.5% from 45 to 64, and 12.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 91.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 97.1 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $43,000, and the median income for a family was $50,313. Males had a median income of $32,206 versus $29,375 for females. The per capita income for the township was $19,583. About 3.1% of families and 3.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 4.3% of those under age 18 and 4.5% of those age 65 or over.

title: North Shade Township, Michigan


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North Star Township, Michigan

North Star Township is a civil township of Gratiot County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 895 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * North Star is an unincorporated community in the township along the Bad River at 43.24833°N, -84.54333°W.  North Star contains its own post office with the 48862 ZIP Code, which serves only a small area of the township.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 34.16 sqmi, of which 34.10 sqmi is land and 0.06 sqmi (0.18%) is water.

U.S. Route 127 runs south–north near the center of the township to the city of Ithaca.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 996 people, 369 households, and 290 families residing in the township. The population density was 28.8 PD/sqmi. There were 395 housing units at an average density of 11.4 per square mile (4.4/km$2$). The racial makeup of the township was 98.69% White, 0.20% Native American, 0.60% from other races, and 0.50% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.31% of the population.

There were 369 households, out of which 29.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 67.2% were married couples living together, 6.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 21.4% were non-families. 18.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.64 and the average family size was 2.95.

In the township the population was spread out, with 24.4% under the age of 18, 8.3% from 18 to 24, 24.4% from 25 to 44, 27.2% from 45 to 64, and 15.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 99.7 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $38,750, and the median income for a family was $45,000. Males had a median income of $33,125 versus $25,208 for females. The per capita income for the township was $19,246. About 7.1% of families and 12.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 12.6% of those under age 18 and 10.3% of those age 65 or over.

title: North Star Township, Michigan


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Perrinton, Michigan

Perrinton is a village in Fulton Township, Gratiot County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 406 at the 2010 census.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 0.64 sqmi, of which 0.63 sqmi is land and 0.01 sqmi is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 406 people, 161 households, and 103 families living in the village. The population density was 644.4 PD/sqmi. There were 175 housing units at an average density of 277.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 95.6% White, 0.2% African American, 0.2% Asian, 2.5% from other races, and 1.5% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.2% of the population.

There were 161 households, of which 32.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 40.4% were married couples living together, 16.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 7.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 36.0% were non-families. 28.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.52 and the average family size was 3.07.

The median age in the village was 38.4 years. 24.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 9.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24.9% were from 25 to 44; 27.6% were from 45 to 64; and 13.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 49.3% male and 50.7% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 439 people, 166 households, and 114 families living in the village. The population density was 699.4 PD/sqmi. There were 173 housing units at an average density of 275.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 97.95% White, 0.46% from other races, and 1.59% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.68% of the population.

There were 166 households, out of which 31.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.4% were married couples living together, 12.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.3% were non-families. 27.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.64 and the average family size was 3.20.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 27.8% under the age of 18, 10.0% from 18 to 24, 28.7% from 25 to 44, 21.6% from 45 to 64, and 11.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 89.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.7 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $34,500, and the median income for a family was $38,929. Males had a median income of $35,909 versus $18,125 for females. The per capita income for the village was $16,988. About 12.3% of families and 14.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 18.7% of those under age 18 and 16.0% of those age 65 or over.

title: Perrinton, Michigan


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Pine River Township, Michigan

Pine River Township is a civil township of Gratiot County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 2,348 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * Forest Hill is an unincorporated community in the township at 43.43667°N, -84.68556°W. It was first platted in 1857, four miles from its current site, then moved to its present site when a major road was built in the area. Forest Hill had its own post office until 1957.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 30.8 sqmi, of which 30.7 sqmi is land and 0.1 sqmi (0.29%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,451 people, 912 households, and 704 families residing in the township. The population density was 79.8 PD/sqmi. There were 983 housing units at an average density of 32.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 96.04% White, 0.29% African American, 0.49% Native American, 0.37% Asian, 0.04% Pacific Islander, 1.43% from other races, and 1.35% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.26% of the population.

There were 912 households, out of which 33.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 66.1% were married couples living together, 7.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 22.8% were non-families. 19.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.61 and the average family size was 2.96.

In the township the population was spread out, with 24.9% under the age of 18, 6.5% from 18 to 24, 26.6% from 25 to 44, 24.9% from 45 to 64, and 17.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 98.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.5 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $36,615, and the median income for a family was $39,632. Males had a median income of $36,250 versus $21,958 for females. The per capita income for the township was $16,504. About 4.9% of families and 6.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.4% of those under age 18 and 7.4% of those age 65 or over.

title: Pine River Township, Michigan


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Seville Township, Michigan

Seville Township is a civil township of Gratiot County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 2,132 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * Elwell is an unincorporated community in the township at 43.3875°N, -84.74583°W. The FIPS place code is 25800. It was platted in 1911.
 * Riverdale is an unincorporated community in the township on the Pine River at 43.38556°N, -84.83556°W. The FIPS place code is 68720.

Geography
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 0.1 sqmi (0.36%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,375 people, 866 households, and 661 families residing in the township. The population density was 66.4 PD/sqmi. There were 907 housing units at an average density of 25.4 per square mile (9.8/km$2$). The racial makeup of the township was 97.43% White, 0.21% African American, 0.42% Native American, 0.04% Asian, 0.55% from other races, and 1.35% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.23% of the population.

There were 866 households, out of which 38.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 62.8% were married couples living together, 9.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.6% were non-families. 18.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.70 and the average family size was 3.05.

In the township the population was spread out, with 28.8% under the age of 18, 7.0% from 18 to 24, 30.1% from 25 to 44, 22.8% from 45 to 64, and 11.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 103.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 97.4 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $40,809, and the median income for a family was $45,759. Males had a median income of $30,781 versus $21,888 for females. The per capita income for the township was $16,400. About 7.9% of families and 12.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 18.0% of those under age 18 and 17.2% of those age 65 or over.

title: Seville Township, Michigan


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St. Louis, Michigan

St. Louis is a city in Gratiot County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2010 census the population was 7,482.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 3.53 sqmi, of which 3.34 sqmi is land and 0.19 sqmi is water. It was long recognized that St. Louis sits at the geographic center of Michigan's lower peninsula "as closely as can be determined." A campaign by Clarence and Odessa Smazel in the early 1950s, owners of the St. Louis Leader-Press, a now-defunct local newspaper, resulted in the State of Michigan designating it as such: a sign in Clapp Park on Highway M-46 denotes the city as the official "Middle of the Mitten."

History
Indigenous people lived in this area for thousands of years before European contact. The French were early explorers in present-day Michigan. They established fur trading with the historic First Nations and Native American nations. By the 18th century, the Ojibwe were the dominant tribe in present-day Michigan. After the Seven Years' War, France was forced to cede its New France territory to the victorious English, who increased fur trade at Sault Ste. Marie. After the rebellious colonists' victory in the American Revolutionary War, the territory changed hands again, being ceded to the new United States.

It was not until the mid-19th century that much European-American settlement reached this area. In 1848 missionaries established the Bethany Lutheran Mission to serve local American Indians, mostly Anishinaabe-speaking Ojibwe (also known in the US as Chippewa). Following a Native American path to the mission, the European-American Joseph W. Clapp came to the area in 1853, where he built the first house of present-day St. Louis. Over 150 years later, the Mission still stands near Main Street Bridge across the Pine River.

By the late nineteenth century, the discovery of mineral springs made St. Louis a destination for people seeking the health benefits of local mineral-rich water, which had the added feature of magnetizing steel. Famous guests who credited the water with cures included detective Allan Pinkerton and Civil War general "Fighting Joe" Hooker. The Park Hotel became noted as a health spa, and for its duck dinners as well. St. Louis is the site of the former Michigan Chemical Corporation plant, which helped market and produce DDT as a widely commercial product. After its purchase by Velsicol Chemical Corporation, the plant was responsible for a product mixup in the 1970s. This resulted in contamination of cattle feed with PBB, a flame retardant. The feed was distributed throughout Michigan and the Midwest. The mixup occurred due what was described as a "triple witching hour" of events: a labor strike with management's replacing regular workers; a shortage of bags that helped distinguish between cattle feed additive and the flame-retardant PBB; and storing both the cattle feed and the fire retardant in the same dimly lit warehouse.

Dredging has been underway for years to remove contaminants from the Pine River, which runs alongside the property where the plant was located. Although the plant was disassembled years ago, the land remains vacant to this day.

St. Louis has gained some jobs by inviting the State of Michigan to build a minimum-security prison between Union and Croswell Roads (Pine River Correctional Facility), on the former Reichard "Rainbow Trail" hatchery property.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 7,482 people, 1,491 households, and 937 families residing in the city. (This includes an institutionalized population of 3,823, mostly in Pine River Correctional Facility.) The population density was 2240.1 PD/sqmi. There were 1,638 housing units at an average density of 490.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 67.7% White, 29.1% African American, 0.6% Native American, 0.2% Asian, 1.3% from other races, and 1.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.7% of the population.

There were 1,491 households, of which 34.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.2% were married couples living together, 16.8% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 37.2% were non-families. 31.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.45 and the average family size was 3.04.

The median age in the city was 36.1 years. 13.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 12.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 41.3% were from 25 to 44; 24.1% were from 45 to 64; and 8.9% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 72.7% male and 27.3% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 4,494 people, 1,468 households, and 964 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,568.4 PD/sqmi. There were 1,575 housing units at an average density of 549.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 83.00% White, 10.08% African American, 1.02% Native American, 0.31% Asian, 2.74% from other races, and 2.85% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 7.50% of the population.

There were 1,468 households, out of which 31.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.6% were married couples living together, 13.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.3% were non-families. 29.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.39 and the average family size was 2.92.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 20.6% under the age of 18, 12.1% from 18 to 24, 35.0% from 25 to 44, 20.9% from 45 to 64, and 11.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 142.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 155.6 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $31,122, and the median income for a family was $39,271. Males had a median income of $29,028 versus $19,272 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,196. About 10.1% of families and 15.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 19.9% of those under age 18 and 10.7% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people

 * Archibald Bard Darragh (1840–1927), Member of Congress from 1901 to 1909, lived in St. Louis from 1870 until the time of his death. He was a banker and was elected mayor in 1893.
 * Edward Hartwick (1871–1918), United States Army officer, businessman and namesake of Michigan's Hartwick Pines State Park, was born and reared here.
 * Jim Northrup (1939–2011), outfielder for the Detroit Tigers 1964–1974, including a major role on its World Championship 1968 team, was born in nearby Breckenridge, Michigan, then moved to St. Louis, where he graduated from high school.
 * Bradbury Robinson (1884–1949), who threw the first forward pass in football history, lived in St. Louis from September 1926 until his death in March 1949. Dr. Robinson founded the Robinson Clinic on N. East St. in 1935 and was twice elected mayor, in 1931 and 1937.
 * Lester "Tug" Wilson (1885–1969), who played briefly for the Boston Red Sox during the 1911 season, was born in St. Louis.

title: St. Louis, Michigan


text:
Sumner Township, Michigan

Sumner Township is a civil township of Gratiot County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,863 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * Elm Hall is an unincorporated community within the township on the Pine River at 43.365°N, -84.83528°W. The FIPS place code is 25580.
 * Sumner is an unincorporated community within the township on the Pine River at 43.30694°N, -84.81583°W. The FIPS place code is 77280 and the elevation is 764 feet above sea level.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 35.9 square miles (93.1 km$2$), of which 35.9 square miles (93.0 km$2$) is land and 0.04 square mile (0.1 km$2$) (0.11%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,911 people, 698 households, and 552 families residing in the township. The population density was 53.2 PD/sqmi. There were 744 housing units at an average density of 20.7 per square mile (8.0/km$2$). The racial makeup of the township was 97.59% White, 0.16% African American, 0.52% Native American, 0.05% Asian, 0.42% from other races, and 1.26% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.51% of the population.

There were 698 households, out of which 36.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 63.9% were married couples living together, 10.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 20.8% were non-families. 15.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.72 and the average family size was 2.98.

In the township the population was spread out, with 26.8% under the age of 18, 9.4% from 18 to 24, 28.2% from 25 to 44, 23.7% from 45 to 64, and 11.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 99.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.6 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $38,309, and the median income for a family was $42,216. Males had a median income of $30,833 versus $21,296 for females. The per capita income for the township was $16,034. About 7.6% of families and 9.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8.1% of those under age 18 and 7.6% of those age 65 or over.

title: Sumner Township, Michigan


text:
Washington Township, Gratiot County, Michigan

Washington Township is a civil township of Gratiot County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 813 at the 2020 census.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 35.5 sqmi, of which 35.4 sqmi is land and 0.04 sqmi (0.08%) is water. The township contains portions of the Maple River State Game Area.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 909 people, 335 households, and 268 families residing in the township. The population density was 25.6 per square mile (9.9/km$2$). There were 352 housing units at an average density of 9.9 per square mile (3.8/km$2$). The racial makeup of the township was 98.13% White, 0.11% African American, 0.33% Native American, 0.22% Pacific Islander, 0.66% from other races, and 0.55% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.76% of the population.

There were 335 households, out of which 29.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 69.9% were married couples living together, 6.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 20.0% were non-families. 17.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.71 and the average family size was 3.04.

In the township the population was spread out, with 22.9% under the age of 18, 9.1% from 18 to 24, 29.0% from 25 to 44, 25.4% from 45 to 64, and 13.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 102.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.6 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $40,958, and the median income for a family was $42,500. Males had a median income of $33,864 versus $26,528 for females. The per capita income for the township was $16,859. About 2.6% of families and 4.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 4.7% of those under age 18 and 7.3% of those age 65 or over.


text:
Wheeler Township, Michigan

Wheeler Township is a civil township of Gratiot County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the township population was 1,374. Inside the township is the Village of Breckenridge.

Communities

 * The village of Breckenridge is within the township.
 * Wheeler is an unincorporated community in the township at 43.41278°N, -84.43778°W, about two miles east of Breckenridge on M-46. The FIPS place code is 86600.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 35.8 sqmi, all land.

Major highways

 * is a north–south route that forms the eastern boundary of the township.
 * serves as an east–west thoroughfare within the township.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,785 people, 1,078 households, and 783 families residing in the township. The population density was 77.7 PD/sqmi. There were 1,147 housing units at an average density of 32.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 96.09% White, 0.04% African American, 0.07% Native American, 0.11% Asian, 0.04% Pacific Islander, 2.51% from other races, and 1.15% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.49% of the population.

There were 1,078 households, out of which 34.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.6% were married couples living together, 10.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 27.3% were non-families. 24.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.58 and the average family size was 3.06.

In the township the population was spread out, with 27.4% under the age of 18, 9.0% from 18 to 24, 27.8% from 25 to 44, 23.6% from 45 to 64, and 12.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 99.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 93.7 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $35,688, and the median income for a family was $39,865. Males had a median income of $31,767 versus $25,813 for females. The per capita income for the township was $16,006. About 7.5% of families and 7.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.6% of those under age 18 and 11.9% of those age 65 or over.

title: Wheeler Township, Michigan


text:
Adams Township, Hillsdale County, Michigan

Adams Township is a civil township of Hillsdale County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 2,262 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * North Adams is a village within the northern portion of the township at 41.97194°N, -84.52417°W.

History
Adams Township was organized from the southern half of Moscow Township in 1836, which itself was organized in 1835. The township was named after pioneering settler Henry Adams. Salmon Sharp served as the first township supervisor and first postmaster when the Adams post office opened on May 4, 1837. The Adams post office was transferred to North Adams on February 28, 1857.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 36.02 sqmi, of which 35.64 sqmi is land and 0.38 sqmi (1.05%) is water.

The township contains the 181 acres Adams Township State Game Area. Hillsdale Municipal Airport is also located in the township just east of the city of Hillsdale.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,498 people, 941 households, and 706 families residing in the township. The population density was 69.9 PD/sqmi. There were 1,036 housing units at an average density of 29.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 98.44% White, 0.52% African American, 0.16% Native American, 0.36% Asian, 0.12% from other races, and 0.40% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.28% of the population.

There were 941 households, out of which 32.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 63.7% were married couples living together, 6.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.9% were non-families. 19.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.65 and the average family size was 3.03.

In the township the population was spread out, with 26.2% under the age of 18, 8.4% from 18 to 24, 27.1% from 25 to 44, 25.5% from 45 to 64, and 12.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 105.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 104.8 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $42,708, and the median income for a family was $45,739. Males had a median income of $32,481 versus $24,509 for females. The per capita income for the township was $19,821. About 2.2% of families and 5.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.4% of those under age 18 and 7.7% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Adams Township is served by four separate public school districts. The majority of the township is served by North Adams-Jerome Schools. The southeast corner of the township is served by Pittsford Area Schools to the southeast in Pittsford. The western portion of the township is served by Hillsdale Community Schools to the west in Hillsdale. A very small portion of the northwest corner of the township is served by Jonesville Community Schools to the west in Jonesville.


text:
Allen, Michigan

Allen is a village in Hillsdale County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 201 at the 2020 census.

The village is within Allen Township at the junction of U.S. Route 12 and M-49. With a total land area of only 0.174 sqmi, Allen is the fourth smallest village by land area in the state of Michigan and the fifth smallest municipality overall after Ahmeek, Copper City, Novi Township, and Eagle.

History
The community was first settled by War of 1812 veteran Captain Moses Allen and his family in 1827. A post office under the name Sylvanus opened on July 13, 1830. It closed briefly from September 5, 1834, to September 9, 1835. The name of the office was changed to Allen in honor of Moses Allen on August 17, 1868. The community was thriving and was platted that same year, and Allen received a railway depot along the Lake Shore and Michigan Southern Railway. In 1950, Allen incorporated as a village.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 0.174 sqmi, all land.

Major highways

 * runs east–west through the center of the village.
 * enters the village from the north and briefly runs concurrently with US 12.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 191 people, 80 households, and 51 families residing in the village. The population density was 1193.8 PD/sqmi. There were 94 housing units at an average density of 587.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 97.9% White, 1.0% Asian, and 1.0% from two or more races.

There were 80 households, of which 23.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.3% were married couples living together, 6.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 1.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 36.3% were non-families. 25.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.39 and the average family size was 2.94.

The median age in the village was 45.8 years. 19.4% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 22.1% were from 25 to 44; 26.7% were from 45 to 64; and 24.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 49.7% male and 50.3% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 225 people, 87 households, and 58 families residing in the village. The population density was 1,470.7 PD/sqmi. There were 93 housing units at an average density of 607.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 98.67% White, and 1.33% from two or more races.

There were 87 households, out of which 32.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.5% were married couples living together, 5.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.2% were non-families. 28.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.59 and the average family size was 3.22.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 27.6% under the age of 18, 7.1% from 18 to 24, 27.1% from 25 to 44, 21.3% from 45 to 64, and 16.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.4 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $42,344, and the median income for a family was $45,417. Males had a median income of $30,250 versus $21,111 for females. The per capita income for the village was $14,251. About 8.0% of families and 5.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including none of those under the age of eighteen or sixty five or over.

Education
The village is served entirely by the Quincy Community School District to the west in the village of Quincy in Branch County.

Notable people

 * Ed Donnelly, professional Major League Baseball player, born in Allen
 * Charles Edward St. John, astronomer and college professor, born in Allen

title: Allen, Michigan


text:
Allen Township, Michigan

Allen Township is a civil township of Hillsdale County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,334 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * Allen is a village within the township at the junction of U.S. Route 12 and M-49 at 41.95806°N, -84.76806°W.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 36.23 sqmi, of which 36.01 sqmi is land and 0.22 sqmi (0.61%) is water.

Major highways

 * runs east–west through the northern portion of the township.
 * runs south–north through the center of the township.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,631 people, 599 households, and 446 families residing in the township. The population density was 45.2 PD/sqmi. There were 708 housing units at an average density of 19.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 97.98% White, 0.31% African American, 0.49% Native American, 0.12% Asian, 0.06% from other races, and 1.04% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.67% of the population.

There were 599 households, out of which 35.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 65.8% were married couples living together, 5.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.4% were non-families. 21.2% 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 2.72 and the average family size was 3.16.

In the township the population was spread out, with 28.3% under the age of 18, 7.6% from 18 to 24, 29.6% from 25 to 44, 22.9% from 45 to 64, and 11.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 103.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 93.9 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $44,213, and the median income for a family was $47,813. Males had a median income of $32,176 versus $23,203 for females. The per capita income for the township was $17,734. About 5.3% of families and 7.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 9.1% of those under age 18 and 6.4% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Adams Township is served by five separate public school districts. Most of the township and the village of Allen are served by Quincy Community School District to the west in the village of Quincy in Branch County. The north-central portion of the township is served by Litchfield Community Schools. The northeast corner of the township is served by Jonesville Community Schools. The southeast corner is served by Hillsdale Community Schools, and the southern portion of the township is served by Reading Community Schools.

title: Allen Township, Michigan


text:
Amboy Township, Michigan

Amboy Township is a civil township of Hillsdale County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,064 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * Amboy (sometimes referred to as Amboy Center) is a historic settlement located within the township. It was settled in what was then Rowland Township.  A post office named Rowland began operating here on December 12, 1840.  The post office was renamed Bird on June 10, 1850 shortly after Amboy Township was established.  The name of the post office was again changed to Amboy on December 28, 1855 and operated until December 14, 1903.  It was also known as Drake's Corner after constable G. Drake and justice of the peace J. S. Drake.
 * Austin is an unincorporated community in the northwest part of the township on the boundary with Woodbridge Township at 41.73722°N, -84.69417°W. Also known as Whitetown, it was first settled by the White family.

History
Amboy Township was formed by the Michigan Legislature on March 28, 1850 from the southern sections of Ransom Township and Woodbridge Township, which resulted in the new township's unusual shape along the state border with Ohio.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 30.64 sqmi, of which 29.96 sqmi is land and 0.68 sqmi (2.22%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,224 people, 457 households, and 350 families residing in the township. The population density was 40.8 PD/sqmi. There were 631 housing units at an average density of 21.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 99.59% White, 0.16% Native American, and 0.25% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.90% of the population.

There were 457 households, out of which 29.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 70.5% were married couples living together, 3.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.4% were non-families. 19.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.65 and the average family size was 3.01.

In the township the population was spread out, with 24.8% under the age of 18, 6.4% from 18 to 24, 25.9% from 25 to 44, 30.6% from 45 to 64, and 12.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females, there were 106.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 103.3 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $42,250, and the median income for a family was $45,250. Males had a median income of $36,118 versus $25,809 for females. The per capita income for the township was $20,578. About 6.5% of families and 10.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.3% of those under age 18 and 5.1% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Amboy Township is served by two separate public school districts. The majority of the township is served by Camden-Frontier Schools, which has its campus located northerly in Woodbridge Township, at the border with Camden Township. A small eastern portion of the township is served by Waldron Area Schools to east in Waldron.

title: Amboy Township, Michigan


text:
Cambria Township, Michigan

Cambria Township is a civil township of Hillsdale County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 2,229 at the 2020 census.

History
Cambria Township was established in 1841 and named after Cambria, New York, which was the hometown of many of the area's early settlers.

Communities

 * Bankers is an unincorporated community located in the northern portion of the township on the border with Hillsdale Township at 41.89778°N, -84.69139°W. The community was founded by Horace and George Banker in 1838 and was platted in 1869.  In 1871, a railway line of the Detroit, Hillsdale & Indiana Railroad was built through the area, in which Bankers was the southern terminus of a line that ran north to Ypsilanti.  Bankers centered around a sawmill and was referred to as Bankers Station, and a post office operated here from January 30, 1872 until January 31, 1909.
 * Cambria is an unincorporated community and census-designated place located in the southern portion of the township at 41.82194°N, -84.665°W.
 * Steamburg is an unincorporated community located within the township at 41.87583°N, -84.6125°W. It was named from the steam sawmill built by Chauncey Ferris, and the community had its own post office from December 9, 1896 until May 31, 1902.  The community was the location of the historic Bates homestead, which was heavily damaged in the 1965 Palm Sunday tornado outbreak and later demolished.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 36.14 sqmi, of which 34.81 sqmi is land and 1.33 sqmi (3.68%) is water.

Major highways

 * runs briefly through the northeast corner of the township.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,546 people, 986 households, and 725 families residing in the township. The population density was 73.0 PD/sqmi. There were 1,264 housing units at an average density of 36.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 97.05% White, 0.43% African American, 0.39% Native American, 0.59% Asian, 0.43% from other races, and 1.10% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.63% of the population.

There were 986 households, out of which 32.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.3% were married couples living together, 7.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.4% were non-families. 21.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.58 and the average family size was 2.97.

In the township the population was spread out, with 26.8% under the age of 18, 7.4% from 18 to 24, 27.7% from 25 to 44, 24.5% from 45 to 64, and 13.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 107.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 102.8 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $40,889, and the median income for a family was $46,650. Males had a median income of $38,031 versus $22,543 for females. The per capita income for the township was $20,109. About 6.5% of families and 8.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.0% of those under age 18 and 10.7% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The township is served by three separate public school districts. The majority of the township is served by Hillsdale Community Schools. The southwest portion of the township is served by Reading Community Schools, while a very small southeast portion is served by Camden-Frontier Schools.

title: Cambria Township, Michigan


text:
Camden, Michigan

Camden is a village in Hillsdale County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 496 at the 2020 census. The village is located within Camden Township.

History
Camden was founded as early as 1837 by landowner Easton Chester and his sons Orson and Nathan. The community developed around several sawmills, and a post office named Cranbrook opened on August 10, 1837. The office name was changed to Camden on September 7, 1840. The name was chosen at random by drawing from a hat, which was a name proposed by sawmill owner Easton Chester after his hometown of Camden, New York. The community was officially platted in 1867 and incorporated as a village in 1899.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 0.80 sqmi, all land.

Major highways

 * runs south–north through the center of the village.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 512 people, 176 households, and 123 families living in the village. The population density was 609.5 PD/sqmi. There were 211 housing units at an average density of 251.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 99.4% White, 0.2% Native American, and 0.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.2% of the population.

There were 176 households, of which 42.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.3% were married couples living together, 16.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 30.1% were non-families. 24.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.89 and the average family size was 3.41.

The median age in the village was 32.6 years. 31.2% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 28.9% were from 25 to 44; 23.3% were from 45 to 64; and 9.4% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 49.4% male and 50.6% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 550 people, 198 households, and 134 families living in the village. The population density was 651.5 PD/sqmi. There were 214 housing units at an average density of 253.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 97.27% White, 0.55% Native American, 0.55% Asian, and 1.64% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.36% of the population.

There were 198 households, out of which 39.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.0% were married couples living together, 14.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.3% were non-families. 25.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.78 and the average family size was 3.36.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 34.0% under the age of 18, 11.1% from 18 to 24, 28.4% from 25 to 44, 16.5% from 45 to 64, and 10.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 29 years. For every 100 females, there were 103.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 85.2 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $34,028, and the median income for a family was $36,429. Males had a median income of $29,643 versus $21,042 for females. The per capita income for the village was $13,846. About 9.2% of families and 12.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 10.9% of those under age 18 and 11.3% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The village is served entirely by Camden-Frontier Schools, which has its campus just to the southeast in Amboy Township.

title: Camden, Michigan


text:
Camden Township, Michigan

Camden Township is a civil township of Hillsdale County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 2,093 at the 2020 census. The villages of Camden and Montgomery are within the township.

Due to the angle in Michigan's southern border, Camden Township has the southernmost point in the state, as well as being the only municipality in Michigan to border both the states of Indiana and Ohio.

Communities

 * Camden is a village located in the center of the township along M-49 at 41.755°N, -84.75694°W.
 * Montgomery is a village located in the western portion of the township near the Indiana–Michigan state border at 41.77694°N, -84.80583°W.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 42.60 sqmi, of which 42.34 sqmi is land and 0.24 sqmi (0.56%) is water.

The township borders both Indiana and Ohio, with the spot where the three states meet indicated by a marker. Due to the angle of the border between Michigan and Ohio, it is also the southernmost point in Michigan. The smaller western branch of the St. Joseph River flows through the township.

Major highways

 * begins at the Ohio border and runs north through the center of the township.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,088 people, 730 households, and 535 families residing in the township. The population density was 49.2 PD/sqmi. There were 872 housing units at an average density of 20.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 98.42% White, 0.05% African American, 0.24% Native American, 0.24% Asian, and 1.05% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.57% of the population.

There were 730 households, out of which 36.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.5% were married couples living together, 8.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.7% were non-families. 22.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.84 and the average family size was 3.31.

In the township the population was spread out, with 31.2% under the age of 18, 9.0% from 18 to 24, 27.1% from 25 to 44, 20.3% from 45 to 64, and 12.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females, there were 102.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.3 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $37,386, and the median income for a family was $41,006. Males had a median income of $31,292 versus $21,836 for females. The per capita income for the township was $17,882. About 9.6% of families and 15.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.5% of those under age 18 and 9.7% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The township is served by two separate public school districts. Camden-Frontier Schools serves most of the township, while smaller northern portions of the township are served by Reading Community Schools.

title: Camden Township, Michigan


text:
Fayette Township, Michigan

Fayette Township is a civil township of Hillsdale County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 990 at the 2020 census, which ranks it the least-populated township in the county. This is a significant decrease from 3,326 at the 2010 census, which was due to the village of Jonesville incorporating as an autonomous city in 2014.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 20.28 sqmi, of which 20.04 sqmi is land and 0.24 sqmi (1.18%) is water.

The St. Joseph River runs through the township.

Major highways

 * runs through the northwest portion of the township.
 * enters the township from the north into the city of Jonesville and through the south end of the township.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 3,350 people, 1,303 households, and 925 families residing in the township. The population density was 144.8 PD/sqmi. There were 1,387 housing units at an average density of 59.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 96.42% White, 1.37% African American, 0.27% Native American, 0.18% Asian, 0.39% from other races, and 1.37% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.12% of the population.

There were 1,303 households, out of which 31.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.9% were married couples living together, 8.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 29.0% were non-families. 25.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.47 and the average family size was 2.95.

In the township the population was spread out, with 27.4% under the age of 18, 7.7% from 18 to 24, 26.7% from 25 to 44, 24.2% from 45 to 64, and 14.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 101.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.1 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $38,974, and the median income for a family was $44,000. Males had a median income of $36,384 versus $25,614 for females. The per capita income for the township was $17,629. About 4.6% of families and 7.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.0% of those under age 18 and 4.1% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The township is served by two separate public school districts. The northern portion of the township is served by Jonesville Community Schools, while the southern section near Hillsdale is served by Hillsdale Community Schools.

title: Fayette Township, Michigan


text:
Hillsdale, Michigan

Hillsdale is the largest city and county seat of Hillsdale County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 8,036 at the 2020 census. The city is the home of Hillsdale College, a private liberal arts college.

History
This area is located in the rolling, fertile hills of South Central Michigan, bordering Indiana and Ohio, according to the boundaries set up under United States settlement. It was long occupied by the Potowatomi, an Algonquian-speaking people who were part of a long-term alliance, called the Council of Three Fires, with the Ojibwe and Odawa (Ottawa). A Potowatomi band of about 150 people, led by the chief known as Baw Beese, had a base camp near the large lake in the area.

The first European-American settler, Jeremiah Arnold, arrived in 1834 and encountered the band. They helped the early settlers. Arnold erected a cabin and moved in with his wife Percy (Round) Arnold. With the arrival of other settlers, the pioneers erected the first schoolhouse in 1838. Hillsdale was platted in 1839. In 1840, the US forced out Baw Beese and his people, as well as other Potowatomi in neighboring and more distant areas of Michigan, Indiana and Ohio, making them remove to Indian Territory in present-day Kansas.

Founded in 1844 as Central Michigan College in Spring Arbor, Hillsdale College relocated to this city in 1853 and changed its name. It was the first American college to prohibit in its charter discrimination based on race, religion or sex, and became an early force for the abolition of slavery. It was the second college in the nation to grant four-year liberal arts degrees to women.

The city was chartered in 1869. In 1885 Hillsdale dedicated its first high school building, on what is now West Street. (It is now used as the middle school.) In the late 1800s, Hillsdale became a booming railroad town, served by both freight and passenger trains.

The railroad was used by tourists to enjoy cottages and other facilities on Baw Beese Lake, named after the Potowatomi chief. About 20 minutes from downtown, the area was developed as a lake resort by the Lake Shore and Michigan Southern Railroad. People could avoid dusty travel on unpaved roads by taking the train. At the turn of the 20th century, it began to attract tourists from a wider range of cities, such as Chicago, Toledo, Elkhart and others at what had been known as Archer's Landing. People swam in the lake and could rent two types of canoes.

After World War II, the construction of interstate highways encouraged use of automobiles, and passenger traffic declined on many lines. Railroads had to restructure and the last passenger train left Hillsdale in 1956. Dozens of fine Victorian homes had been built during the prosperity of the 19th century, many of which are still occupied as private residences, contributing to the city's historic fabric.

The 20th century brought additional improvements. In 1908 the city opened its first public library. In 1921 it opened its first hospital and in 1934 Hillsdale Municipal Airport opened.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 6.13 sqmi, of which, 5.69 sqmi is land and 0.43 sqmi is water.

The St. Joseph River begins in Hillsdale, flowing from Lake Baw Beese. Several parks and a beach are located around this major body of water in the city.

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

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 8,305 people, 2,970 households, and 1,686 families living in the city. The population density was 1402.9 PD/sqmi. There were 3,383 housing units at an average density of 571.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.8% White, 0.7% African American, 0.4% Native American, 0.7% Asian, 0.3% from other races, and 2.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.3% of the population.

There were 2,970 households, of which 31.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 37.7% were married couples living together, 14.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.7% had a male householder with no wife present, and 43.2% were non-families. 36.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.35 and the average family size was 3.03.

The median age in the city was 30.2 years. 22.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 21.9% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 21.9% were from 25 to 44; 20.5% were from 45 to 64; and 13.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.0% male and 53.0% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 8,233 people, 3,067 households, and 1,781 families living in the city. The population density was 1,548.2 PD/sqmi. There were 3,274 housing units at an average density of 615.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.5% White, 0.6% African American, 0.5% Native American, 0.8% Asian, <0.1% Pacific Islander, 0.5% from other races, and 1.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.5% of the population.

There were 3,067 households, out of which 30.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.5% were married couples living together, 12.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 41.9% were non-families. 34.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.33 and the average family size was 3.01.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 22.5% under the age of 18, 21.3% from 18 to 24, 24.7% from 25 to 44, 17.4% from 45 to 64, and 14.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 30 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.7 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $34,695, and the median income for a family was $42,649. Males had a median income of $32,573 versus $22,707 for females. The per capita income for the city was $16,062. About 5.5% of families and 10.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 10.1% of those under age 18 and 15.7% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The Hillsdale Community School District serves the city of Hillsdale. The school district is composed of one high school, Hillsdale High School, one middle school, Davis Middle School, and two elementary schools. A private school, Hillsdale Academy, and two charter schools, Will Carleton Academy and Hillsdale Preparatory School, also serve the city of Hillsdale. The town is also home to Hillsdale College.

Attempt to ban books at the Hillsdale library
In 2022, the Hillsdale Library Board met to discuss whether they should ban books created by and/or for LGBT people. One board member, a graduate student at Hillsdale College, proposed removing several books and puzzles from the library's children's section for LGBT content and promotion of political activism. The proposed ban failed, but the controversy led to the resignations of the library director, the children's library director and the president of the library board.

Major highways

 * passes about 2 mi north of Hillsdale
 * run diagonally northwest through the center of the city

Airports

 * Hillsdale Municipal Airport is a public use airport located just east of the city in Adams Township.

Railroad

 * Indiana Northeastern Railroad has a railway line running through Hillsdale.

Radio

 * WPCJ 91.1 FM
 * WCSR 92.1 FM / 1340 AM
 * WRFH-LP 101.7 FM

Newspapers

 * Hillsdale Daily News
 * Imprimis, monthly speech digest of Hillsdale College
 * The Collegian, student paper for Hillsdale College

Notable people

 * Lee Bartlett, three-time Olympic athlete
 * Baw Beese, Potawatomi chief
 * Will Carleton (1845–1912), newspaper reporter and poet
 * William W. Cook, legal scholar and benefactor of the University of Michigan Law School
 * Charles Doolittle, Civil War general
 * Sile Doty, thief, robber and burglar
 * Dick Estell, host and producer of The Radio Reader
 * Andrew Fink, Michigan State Legislature elected in 2020.
 * Caril Ann Fugate, the youngest female in United States history to date to have been tried for first-degree murder
 * Henry Churchill King, theologian, president of Oberlin College from 1902 to 1927
 * Penny Neer, Olympic athlete
 * John Corbett O'Meara United States District Court judge
 * Jason Robards Sr., actor
 * Michael Sessions, youngest mayor elected
 * Rube Vickers, Major League baseball pitcher
 * Henry Waldron, politician
 * Frank "Muddy" Waters, Hall of Fame football coach

title: Hillsdale, Michigan


text:
Hillsdale Township, Michigan

Hillsdale Township is a civil township of Hillsdale County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 2,133 at the 2020 census.

The township consists of several sections surrounding and separated by the city of Hillsdale, but the township and city are administered autonomously.

Communities

 * Bankers is an unincorporated community located in the southern portion of the township on the border with Cambria Township at 41.89778°N, -84.69139°W. The community was founded by Horace and George Banker in 1838 and was platted in 1869.  In 1871, a railway line of the Detroit, Hillsdale & Indiana Railroad was built through the area, in which Bankers was the southern terminus of a line that ran north to Ypsilanti.  Bankers centered around a sawmill and was referred to as Bankers Station, and a post office operated here from January 30, 1872 until January 31, 1909.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 12.89 sqmi, of which 12.32 sqmi is land and 0.57 sqmi (4.42%) is water.

Major highways

 * run briefly through the southeast portion of the township after exiting the city of Hillsdale.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,965 people, 734 households, and 593 families residing in the township. The population density was 155.5 PD/sqmi. There were 805 housing units at an average density of 63.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 97.81% White, 0.81% African American, 0.10% Native American, 0.41% Asian, 0.25% from other races, and 0.61% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.71% of the population.

There were 734 households, out of which 31.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 70.4% were married couples living together, 6.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 19.1% were non-families. 14.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.65 and the average family size was 2.89.

In the township the population was spread out, with 24.4% under the age of 18, 6.1% from 18 to 24, 25.8% from 25 to 44, 29.4% from 45 to 64, and 14.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.4 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $50,357, and the median income for a family was $55,057. Males had a median income of $37,656 versus $22,727 for females. The per capita income for the township was $22,396. About 3.3% of families and 4.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 6.0% of those under age 18 and none of those age 65 or over.

Education
The majority of the township is served by Hillsdale Community Schools, while a very small portion of the northwest corner of the township is served by Jonesville Community Schools to the north in Jonesville.

title: Hillsdale Township, Michigan


text:
Jefferson Township, Hillsdale County, Michigan

Jefferson Township is a civil township of Hillsdale County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 3,063 at the 2020 census.

Communities

 * Florida is a former settlement within the township. The township was originally named Florida Township when it was created in 1837, and it was renamed to Jefferson Township in 1849.  A post office operated in Florida from July 23, 1839 until it was transferred to Osseo on December 14, 1861.
 * Fountain Park is an unincorporated community located within the township at 41.83139°N, -84.52917°W.
 * Osseo is an unincorporated community located within the township along M-34 at 41.88583°N, -84.54417°W.
 * Pittsford is an unincorporated community and census-designated place on the boundary with Pittsford Township at 41.86222°N, -84.47667°W.
 * Shadyside is an unincorporated community located within the township at 41.82278°N, -84.53639°W.

History
The township was created by the state legislature in 1837, and it was originally called Florida Township. It was renamed to Jefferson Township in 1849.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 36.10 sqmi, of which 35.49 sqmi is land and 0.61 sqmi (1.69%) is water.

The Lost Nation State Game Area is a 2471 acres state game area located mostly within Jefferson Township with a small portion extending east into Pittsford Township. The protected area is also known locally as Pittsford State Game Area.

Major highways

 * enters the township from the east and has its western terminus at M-99
 * enters the townships from the northwest and curves south at the junction within M-34.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 3,141 people, 1,210 households, and 895 families residing in the township. The population density was 88.2 PD/sqmi. There were 1,569 housing units at an average density of 44.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 97.87% White, 0.25% African American, 0.45% Native American, 0.16% Asian, 0.41% from other races, and 0.86% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.83% of the population.

There were 1,210 households, out of which 32.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.6% were married couples living together, 8.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.0% were non-families. 20.7% 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 2.59 and the average family size was 2.99.

In the township the population was spread out, with 25.7% under the age of 18, 9.1% from 18 to 24, 28.1% from 25 to 44, 24.1% from 45 to 64, and 13.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.0 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $43,750, and the median income for a family was $51,786. Males had a median income of $34,266 versus $22,483 for females. The per capita income for the township was $17,484. About 4.0% of families and 5.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 4.7% of those under age 18 and 3.4% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The township is served by three separate public school districts. The majority of the township is served by Pittsford Area Schools. The northwest portion of the township is served by Hillsdale Community Schools, and a very small portion of the southwest corner of the township is served by Camden-Frontier Schools.

Notable people

 * Charles D. Luce, state representative and supervisor of Jefferson Township
 * Silas A. Wade, state representative and supervisor of Jefferson Township


text:
Jonesville, Michigan

Jonesville is a city in Hillsdale County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 2,176 at the 2020 census.

History
The area was first settled by brothers Benaiah and Edmund Jones, who came here from Painesville, Ohio in 1828 and purchased land the next year. They surveyed and platted the community by 1831. It served as the first county seat of Hillsdale County, which was formally organized in 1835. The Jonesville post office opened on January 21, 1841. The community incorporated as a village in 1855. Jonesville once contained a railway station along the Lake Shore and Michigan Southern Railway.

In August 2014, the village voted to adopt a charter and incorporated as a city.

The city contains three listings on the National Register of Historic Places: J.J. Deal and Son Carriage Factory, Grace Episcopal Church, and the E.O. Grosvenor House. All three of these are also Michigan State Historic Sites, and the city also includes the state historic sites the Delevan (Munro) House and Kiddie Brush and Toy Company. The toy company occupied the same building as the Carriage Factory, which is now renovated as an apartment complex.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 2.83 sqmi, of which 2.79 sqmi is land and 0.04 sqmi (0.99%) is water.

The St. Joseph River flows through the city.

Major highways

 * runs southwest through the center of the city.
 * runs south–north through the city and also runs concurrently with US 12 for a short distance.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 2,258 people, 894 households, and 596 families living in the village. The population density was 781.3 PD/sqmi. There were 983 housing units at an average density of 340.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 95.3% White, 2.1% African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.9% Asian, 0.3% from other races, and 1.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.1% of the population.

There were 894 households, of which 30.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.2% were married couples living together, 13.4% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.0% had a male householder with no wife present, and 33.3% were non-families. 29.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.8% 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 2.95.

The median age in the village was 37.6 years. 26.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 9.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.3% were from 25 to 44; 23.8% were from 45 to 64; and 17.4% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 47.4% male and 52.6% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,337 people, 926 households, and 623 families living in the village. The population density was 856.7 PD/sqmi. There were 975 housing units at an average density of 357.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 96.02% White, 1.93% African American, 0.26% Native American, 0.21% Asian, 0.39% from other races, and 1.20% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.80% of the population.

There were 926 households, out of which 31.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.1% were married couples living together, 10.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.7% were non-families. 28.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.39 and the average family size was 2.92.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 27.9% under the age of 18, 8.0% from 18 to 24, 26.4% from 25 to 44, 22.4% from 45 to 64, and 15.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 102.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 93.8 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $35,223, and the median income for a family was $41,813. Males had a median income of $34,135 versus $23,333 for females. The per capita income for the village was $15,877. About 6.5% of families and 9.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 9.5% of those under age 18 and 5.8% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The city is served entirely by its own school district, Jonesville Community Schools, which also serves large areas of several neighboring townships.

title: Jonesville, Michigan


text:
Litchfield, Michigan

Litchfield is a city in Hillsdale County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,399 at the 2020 census.

The city is surrounded by Litchfield Township, but the two are administered autonomously.

History
The area was first settled by Henry Stevens in 1834. It was platted in 1836 by Hervey Smith and his son David, and the community was named Smithsville. Hervey became the first postmaster when the post office opened on February 3, 1837. The post office was named Columbus, and it was renamed to Litchfield on August 12, 1837. Stevens proposed the name after Litchfield, Connecticut, where many of the early settlers originated. Litchfield incorporated as a village in 1877. The village was part of Litchfield Township until it incorporated as a city in 1970.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 2.81 sqmi, of which 2.78 sqmi is land and 0.04 sqmi (1.42%) is water.

The St. Joseph River flows through the city. The North Country Trail also runs through the center of the city.

Major highways

 * enters the city from the south and has its northern terminus at M-99.
 * runs through the downtown area of the city.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,369 people, 559 households, and 365 families living in the city. The population density was 547.6 PD/sqmi. There were 616 housing units at an average density of 246.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.9% White, 0.3% African American, 0.7% Native American, 0.1% Asian, 1.1% from other races, and 0.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.9% of the population.

There were 559 households, of which 32.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.6% were married couples living together, 12.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 7.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 34.7% were non-families. 29.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.44 and the average family size was 2.99.

The median age in the city was 38.4 years. 25.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 9% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.4% were from 25 to 44; 27% were from 45 to 64; and 15% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 49.8% male and 50.2% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,458 people, 568 households, and 362 families living in the city. The population density was 608.9 PD/sqmi. There were 604 housing units at an average density of 252.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.42% White, 0.21% African American, 0.07% Asian, 0.62% from other races, and 0.69% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.99% of the population.

There were 568 households, out of which 34.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.7% were married couples living together, 11.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.1% were non-families. 31.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.40 and the average family size was 3.04.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 26.3% under the age of 18, 9.3% from 18 to 24, 26.2% from 25 to 44, 20.3% from 45 to 64, and 17.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 85.8 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $39,292, and the median income for a family was $47,500. Males had a median income of $34,464 versus $24,671 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,362. About 5.6% of families and 10.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.2% of those under age 18 and 17.9% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The city is served entirely by its own school district, Litchfield Community Schools, which also serves portions of several adjacent townships.

Notable people

 * Marion Babcock Baxter, lecturer and author, born in Litchfield

title: Litchfield, Michigan


text:
Litchfield Township, Michigan

Litchfield Township is a civil township of Hillsdale County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,029 at the 2020 census.

The city of Litchfield is surrounded by the township, but the two are administered autonomously since Litchfield incorporated as a city in 1970.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 33.05 sqmi, of which 32.97 sqmi is land and 0.08 sqmi (0.24%) is water.

The St. Joseph River flows through the township, and the North Country Trail also travels through the township.

Major highways

 * enters the township from the south and has its northern terminus in the city of Litchfield.
 * runs through the northeast portion of the township through the city of Litchfield.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 969 people, 357 households, and 285 families residing in the township. The population density was 29.3 PD/sqmi. There were 382 housing units at an average density of 11.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 97.01% White, 0.41% African American, 0.62% Native American, 0.21% Asian, 0.52% from other races, and 1.24% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.55% of the population.

There were 357 households, out of which 28.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 70.3% were married couples living together, 5.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 19.9% were non-families. 16.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.69 and the average family size was 2.94.

In the township the population was spread out, with 22.8% under the age of 18, 7.5% from 18 to 24, 26.1% from 25 to 44, 28.8% from 45 to 64, and 14.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females, there were 111.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 111.3 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $42,153, and the median income for a family was $45,385. Males had a median income of $36,083 versus $22,500 for females. The per capita income for the township was $17,625. About 5.8% of families and 9.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 10.2% of those under age 18 and 10.1% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The township is served by four separate public school districts. The vast majority of the township is served by Litchfield Community Schools. The southeast corner of the township is served by Jonesville Community Schools in Jonesville. A small portion of the northwest corner of the township is served by Homer Community Schools to the northwest in Calhoun County. A very small portion of the southwest corner of the township is served by the Quincy Community School District to the west in Branch County.

title: Litchfield Township, Michigan


text:
Montgomery, Michigan

Montgomery is a village in Hillsdale County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 322 at the 2020 census. The village is located within Camden Township.

History
The community was first settled as early as 1870 by several farmers who moved to the area prior to the expansion of the railroad that came by the next year. In 1871, the community was known simply as the Station. When the farmers went to Hillsdale to have their community officially platted, the county clerk, William Montgomery, said he would record it for free in exchange for naming the new community after him. The farmers agreed, and the community received a post office named Montgomery on December 20, 1871. Montgomery incorporated a village in 1906.

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

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 342 people, 126 households, and 79 families living in the village. The population density was 342.0 PD/sqmi. There were 146 housing units at an average density of 146.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 98.0% White, 0.3% Native American, 0.6% Asian, and 1.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.0% of the population.

There were 126 households, of which 37.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.2% were married couples living together, 11.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 37.3% were non-families. 32.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.61 and the average family size was 3.32.

The median age in the village was 35.7 years. 30.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 28.9% were from 25 to 44; 16.6% were from 45 to 64; and 17.3% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 52.6% male and 47.4% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 386 people, 137 households, and 99 families living in the village. The population density was 392.3 PD/sqmi. There were 148 housing units at an average density of 150.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 99.22% White, 0.26% Native American and 0.52% Asian. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.07% of the population.

There were 137 households, out of which 40.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.3% were married couples living together, 10.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 27.7% were non-families. 24.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.72 and the average family size was 3.09.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 30.8% under the age of 18, 7.8% from 18 to 24, 31.6% from 25 to 44, 16.8% from 45 to 64, and 13.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females, there were 107.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 111.9 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $42,500, and the median income for a family was $42,500. Males had a median income of $31,964 versus $24,500 for females. The per capita income for the village was $14,975. About 7.5% of families and 13.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 9.8% of those under age 18 and 3.4% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The village is served by two separate public school districts. The majority of the village is served by Reading Community Schools to the northeast in Reading. A small portion of the village and the surrounding area is served by Camden-Frontier Schools to the southeast in Amboy Township.

title: Montgomery, Michigan