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Almira Township, Michigan

Almira Township is a civil township in the northeast of Benzie County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the township population was 3,873, making it the most-populous municipality in Benzie County.

Name
Almira Township was named after the township's first female house-dwelling settler, Almira Burrell.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 93.3 km2, of which 87.4 km2 is land and 5.9 km2, or 6.29%, is water.

Almira Township is about 8 mi west of Traverse City, the largest city in Northern Michigan. Because of this proximity, residents of Almira Township and neighboring Inland Township are largely dependent on Traverse City.

The Platte River flows east to west through the township, originating in nearby Long Lake and flowing to Lake Michigan.

Almira Township contains no state trunkline highways, although US 31 and M-72 run east–west to the south and north of the township, respectively.

Communities

 * Hardwood Acres is a subdivision and census-designated place in eastern Almira Township, east of Lake Ann and on the border with Grand Traverse County.
 * The village of Lake Ann is the most noteworthy settlement within Almira Township.
 * Maple Grove is a small census-designated place within Almira Township.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,811 people, 1,054 households, and 808 families residing in the township. The population density was 83.2 PD/sqmi. There were 1,320 housing units at an average density of 39.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 97.69% White, 0.21% African American, 0.60% Native American, 0.07% Asian, 0.25% from other races, and 1.17% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.14% of the population.

There were 1,054 households, out of which 38.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 65.9% were married couples living together, 7.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.3% were non-families. 17.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.67 and the average family size was 3.03.

In the township the population was spread out, with 27.7% under the age of 18, 6.9% from 18 to 24, 33.5% from 25 to 44, 21.9% from 45 to 64, and 10.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.9 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $46,389, and the median income for a family was $49,024. Males had a median income of $33,164 versus $25,759 for females. The per capita income for the township was $20,137. About 3.3% of families and 4.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 3.2% of those under age 18 and 1.4% of those age 65 or over.

title: Almira Township, Michigan


text:
Benzonia, Michigan

Benzonia is a village in Benzie County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 551 at the 2020 census, up from 497 at the 2010 census. The village is located within Benzonia Township at the southeast end of Crystal Lake on U.S. Highway 31 at the junction with M-115 west.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 1.13 sqmi, all land.

History
Benzonia began in 1858 as an educational Christian colony on the model of Oberlin, Ohio. Its founding was under the leadership of Charles E. Bailey. The village, which was once the county seat, was incorporated in 1891.

In 1863 Grand Traverse College was chartered and began here. It was renamed Benzonia College in 1891. In 1900 the college was changed to a preparatory school named Benzonia Academy. The academy continued to function until 1918 when it was closed. In his book Waiting for the Morning Train, historian Bruce Catton captured local history and documented his perspective of growing up in Benzonia as his father was an instructor at the academy.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 497 people, 209 households, and 125 families living in the village. The population density was 439.8 PD/sqmi. There were 275 housing units at an average density of 243.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 93.2% White, 1.2% African American, 0.4% Native American, 2.4% from other races, and 2.8% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 6.2% of the population.

There were 209 households, of which 28.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 35.9% were married couples living together, 19.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 40.2% were non-families. 34.4% 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 2.38 and the average family size was 3.04.

The median age in the village was 39.9 years. 25.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 21.2% were from 25 to 44; 26.1% were from 45 to 64; and 18.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 45.1% male and 54.9% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 519 people, 211 households, and 128 families living in the village. The population density was 488.2 PD/sqmi. There were 254 housing units at an average density of 238.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 93.45% White, 0.39% African American, 3.08% Native American, 0.39% Asian, 0.19% Pacific Islander, 0.96% from other races, and 1.54% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.89% of the population.

There were 211 households, out of which 25.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 44.5% were married couples living together, 12.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 39.3% were non-families. 33.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.25 and the average family size was 2.88.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 21.0% under the age of 18, 10.4% from 18 to 24, 25.6% from 25 to 44, 22.4% from 45 to 64, and 20.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 106.0 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $28,650, and the median income for a family was $35,104. Males had a median income of $25,469 versus $20,313 for females. The per capita income for the village was $15,515. About 5.0% of families and 10.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 4.6% of those under age 18 and 15.6% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people

 * Bruce Catton, American Civil War historian
 * Jennie W. Erickson, probation officer and school superintendent
 * Gwen Frostic, artist, author, Michigan Women's Hall of Fame inductee
 * Douglass North, economic historian and nobel laureate

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

title: Benzonia, Michigan


text:
Benzonia Township, Michigan

Benzonia Township is a civil township of Benzie County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the township population was 1,870.

History
Benzonia Township was organized in 1861.

Geography
Benzonia Township is situated west of the center of Benzie County. The southeastern third of Crystal Lake occupies the central to western part of the township, and the southern half of Platte Lake is in the northern part of the township. The Betsie and Platte rivers flow through the township, both from east to west, toward Lake Michigan.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 87.7 km2, of which 72.0 km2 is land and 15.7 km2, or 17.87%, is water.

Major highways

 * enters the township from the south and exits the township to the east. Motorists can use southbound US 31 to access Manistee and south, and eastbound US 31 to access Traverse City and north.
 * enters the township from the south with US 31, however, exits the township to the west. It ends at a junction with M-22 in nearby Frankfort. Southeast of Benzonia Township, M-115 runs through Cadillac to Clare.

Communities

 * Benzonia is a village immediately south of Beulah. It is the location of a junction between highways US 31 and M-115.
 * Beulah is the county seat of Benzie County. A small village, it is located upon the eastern shore of Crystal Lake.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,839 people, 1,205 households, and 789 families residing in the township. The population density was 100.4 PD/sqmi. There were 2,024 housing units at an average density of 71.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 96.23% White, 0.14% African American, 2.18% Native American, 0.25% Asian, 0.04% Pacific Islander, 0.53% from other races, and 0.63% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.66% of the population.

There were 1,205 households, out of which 24.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.9% were married couples living together, 7.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.5% were non-families. 28.7% 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 2.25 and the average family size was 2.76.

In the township, the population was spread out, with 20.1% under the age of 18, 5.8% from 18 to 24, 23.3% from 25 to 44, 28.0% from 45 to 64, and 22.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.4 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $32,837, and the median income for a family was $40,786. Males had a median income of $29,667 versus $21,915 for females. The per capita income for the township was $18,720. About 2.9% of families and 7.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 4.4% of those under age 18 and 7.2% of those age 65 or over.

title: Benzonia Township, Michigan


text:
Beulah, Michigan

Beulah is a village in the U.S. state of Michigan. It is the county seat of Benzie County, and is located within Benzonia Township. The village had a population of 313 at the 2020 census. The village sits at the southeast end of Crystal Lake, and is immediately north of the village of Benzonia.

History
Beulah was founded in 1880 by Charles E. Bailey. Its name derives from Isaiah 62:4. The Beulah post office was established in 1892.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 0.43 sqmi, all land.

Climate
According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Beulah has a warm-summer humid continental climate, abbreviated "Dfb" on climate maps. The hottest temperature recorded in Beulah was 95 F on August 1, 2006, and July 3, 2012, while the coldest temperature recorded was -10 F on March 15–16, 2014, March 20, 2015, and February 3, 2015.

Major highway

 * runs north–south through the village.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 342 people, 161 households, and 81 families living in the village. The population density was 795.3 PD/sqmi. There were 375 housing units at an average density of 872.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 98.0% White, 0.3% African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.6% from other races, and 0.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.3% of the population.

There were 161 households, of which 12.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.0% were married couples living together, 8.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 0.6% had a male householder with no wife present, and 49.7% were non-families. 43.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.81 and the average family size was 2.44.

The median age in the village was 52.7 years. 10.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 19.6% were from 25 to 44; 37.2% were from 45 to 64; and 24.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 51.5% male and 48.5% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 341 people, 190 households, and 102 families living in the village. The population density was 798.2 PD/sqmi. There were 359 housing units at an average density of 789.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 98.35% White, 0.83% Native American, 0.55% from other races, and 0.28% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.65% of the population.

There were 190 households, out of which 17.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 38.9% were married couples living together, 12.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 46.3% were non-families. 39.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 21.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.91 and the average family size was 2.49.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 14.3% under the age of 18, 6.6% from 18 to 24, 24.0% from 25 to 44, 28.1% from 45 to 64, and 27.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 49 years. For every 100 females, there were 84.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 82.9 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $31,250, and the median income for a family was $43,750. Males had a median income of $26,458 versus $22,396 for females. The per capita income for the village was $22,389. About 12.4% of families and 17.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.3% of those under age 18 and 15.5% of those age 65 or over.

title: Beulah, Michigan


text:
Blaine Township, Michigan

Blaine Township is a civil township of Benzie County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the township population was 484. It is located in the southwest portion of the county. There are no significant population centers in the township; the nearest towns are Arcadia to the south, Benzonia to the northeast, and Elberta to the northwest. M-22 is the township's main thoroughfare.

History
Blaine Township was organized from part of what had been Gilmore Township in 1876.

For a very brief period in the early 1890s, a town called Watervale 44.55361°N, -86.21444°W was inhabited in the township along Lower Herring Lake. The town participated in the sawmill boom that brought a period of prosperity to northern Michigan. Abandoned in 1894, the town was made into a summer resort in 1917. Today the resort is known as the Inn at Watervale and the Watervale Historic District. Watervale maintains its nineteenth-century atmosphere and has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 54.5 km2, of which 50.3 km2 is land and 4.2 km2, or 7.70%, is water. It is bordered on the north by Gilmore Township, on the east by Joyfield Township, on the south by Arcadia and Pleasanton townships in Manistee County, and on the west by Lake Michigan. Besides Lake Michigan, the township's most distinguishing physical features are Lower and Upper Herring Lakes, connected and fed by Herring Creek, and bluffs at Green Point Dunes (north of the lakes) and Arcadia Dunes.

The township's economy is heavily agricultural, with apples and cherries two prominent crops. Fruit orchards dominate much of the landscape.

Sites of interest
Blaine Township is home to two churches, Herring Lake Church (nondenominational) and Blaine Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). A gravity hill located at the site of Blaine Christian Church on Putney Road near its intersection with Joyfield Road is a well-known local landmark.

Since 1991 the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy had maintained a nature preserve along Upper Herring Lake (the Upper Herring Nature Preserve). Just north of the township's southern border is Inspiration Point, a high headland overlooking Lake Michigan where a platform has been built atop the bluff. The point is a popular lookout and is a prominent stop along the scenic route of Highway 22. The Conservancy also maintains popular and scenic preserves at Green Point Dunes and Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve (partially within the township).

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 491 people, 215 households, and 153 families residing in the township. The population density was 25.3 PD/sqmi. There were 431 housing units at an average density of 22.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 98.98% White, 0.41% from other races, and 0.61% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.85% of the population.

There were 215 households, out of which 19.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 65.6% were married couples living together, 4.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.4% were non-families. 23.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.26 and the average family size was 2.67.

In the township the population was spread out, with 19.6% under the age of 18, 4.1% from 18 to 24, 19.1% from 25 to 44, 35.6% from 45 to 64, and 21.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 50 years. For every 100 females, there were 108.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 106.8 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $42,500, and the median income for a family was $46,250. Males had a median income of $30,000 versus $23,750 for females. The per capita income for the township was $21,465. About 2.9% of families and 4.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 6.6% of those under age 18 and none of those age 65 or over.

title: Blaine Township, Michigan


text:
Colfax Township, Benzie County, Michigan

Colfax Township is a civil township of Benzie County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 504 at the 2020 census. Colfax Township contains half of the village of Thompsonville, and the entire community of Nessen City

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 93.0 km2, of which 92.3 km2 is land and 0.7 km2, or 0.72%, is water. Colfax Township forms the southeastern corner of Benzie County, forming a quadripoint with neighboring Grand Traverse, Manistee, and Wexford counties.

The Betsie River flows through the township, east to west, toward Lake Michigan.

There are no state trunkline highways within Colfax Township.

Communities

 * Nessen City is a census-designated place in the south of the township.
 * Thompsonville is a village located in the southwestern corner of the township, shared with Weldon Township to the east.
 * Wallin is an unincorporated community in the north of the township, located at °N, °W. The community was founded in 1893 as a station on the Chicago and West Michigan Railway, near where the railway crossed the Betsie River.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 585 people, 224 households, and 170 families residing in the township. The population density was 16.4 PD/sqmi. There were 297 housing units at an average density of 8.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 95.73% White, 0.17% African American, 1.54% Native American, 0.17% Asian, 0.68% from other races, and 1.71% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.05% of the population.

There were 224 households, out of which 36.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.6% were married couples living together, 7.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.1% were non-families. 20.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.61 and the average family size was 3.02.

In the township the population was spread out, with 28.2% under the age of 18, 5.1% from 18 to 24, 33.8% from 25 to 44, 22.7% from 45 to 64, and 10.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 112.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 114.3 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $37,250, and the median income for a family was $38,482. Males had a median income of $27,083 versus $21,477 for females. The per capita income for the township was $14,812. About 6.4% of families and 6.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8.7% of those under age 18 and 4.9% of those age 65 or over.


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Crystal Lake Township, Michigan

Crystal Lake Township is a civil township of Benzie County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,065 at the 2020 census.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 44.2 km2, of which 32.5 km2 is land and 11.7 km2, or 26.48%, is water.

Crystal Lake Township contains shores on both Lake Michigan and the eponymous Crystal Lake. Additionally, the Betsie River flows through the south of the township.

Communities

 * Crystallia is an unincorporated community in the northwest of the township, on the western shore of Crystal Lake, located at °N, °W. The settlement was established in 1895.
 * The city of Frankfort, the largest municipality in Benzie County, is immediately adjacent Crystal Lake Township.
 * Pilgrim, a census-designated place, is located within the northwest of Crystal Lake Township.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 960 people, 414 households, and 303 families residing in the township. The population density was 74.9 PD/sqmi. There were 1,051 housing units at an average density of 82.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 98.02% White, 0.73% Native American, 0.62% Asian, and 0.62% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.73% of the population.

There were 414 households, out of which 25.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 63.5% were married couples living together, 6.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.6% were non-families. 23.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.31 and the average family size was 2.72.

In the township the population was spread out, with 20.5% under the age of 18, 4.5% from 18 to 24, 20.6% from 25 to 44, 29.9% from 45 to 64, and 24.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 48 years. For every 100 females, there were 98.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.6 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $36,528, and the median income for a family was $44,643. Males had a median income of $28,977 versus $20,982 for females. The per capita income for the township was $20,987. About 4.9% of families and 5.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.1% of those under age 18 and 4.2% of those age 65 or over.

title: Crystal Lake Township, Michigan


text:
Elberta, Michigan

Elberta is a village in Benzie County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 329 at the 2020 census. Located in Gilmore Township, Elberta overlooks Lake Michigan and lies across Betsie Lake from Frankfort. Elberta is part of Northern Michigan.

History
Elberta was first settled in 1855 and incorporated as South Frankfort in 1894. It was renamed Elberta in 1911 for the local Elberta peach. The village's founder is said to be George M. Cartwright.

M-168, previously one of the shortest state highways in Michigan, extended 0.95 mi from a junction with M-22 in downtown Elberta to the former Ann Arbor Railroad ferry docks in Elberta. This highway was decommissioned in 2012.

Geography

 * According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 0.99 sqmi, of which 0.74 sqmi is land and 0.25 sqmi is water. The downtown is at 44.61944°N, -86.22639°W.
 * Elberta is part of Northern Michigan.

Major highways

 * is a north–south highway that runs through the village, paralleling the coast of Lake Michigan for its length. M-22 can be used to access Frankfort.
 * is a former highway that ran through the village, connecting M-22 to the former Ann Arbor Railroad ferry docks. This highway was decommissioned in 2012.

Ferry and rail transport
From the 1890s to July 1950, the Ann Arbor Railroad operated launched ferries from docks at Elberta. The ferries crossed Lake Michigan to two points in Wisconsin, and a fourth ferry line went north to Gladstone, Michigan in the Michigan Upper Peninsula.

In the same period, the Ann Arbor Railroad operated a train a day south to and from Cadillac, Owosso, Durand, Ann Arbor, and then to its southern terminus in Toledo, Ohio.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 372 people, 173 households, and 101 families living in the village. The population density was 502.7 PD/sqmi. There were 229 housing units at an average density of 309.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 95.2% White, 0.8% African American, 0.8% Native American, 0.3% Asian, 0.8% from other races, and 2.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.5% of the population.

There were 173 households, of which 22.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.8% were married couples living together, 8.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 7.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 41.6% were non-families. 34.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.15 and the average family size was 2.71.

The median age in the village was 47.8 years. 18.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 19.2% were from 25 to 44; 33.1% were from 45 to 64; and 21.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 51.9% male and 48.1% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 457 people, 190 households, and 124 families living in the village. The population density was 612.9 PD/sqmi. There were 237 housing units at an average density of 317.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 95.62% White, 0.66% African American, 1.31% Native American, 0.22% from other races, and 2.19% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.88% of the population.

There were 190 households, out of which 31.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 44.2% were married couples living together, 15.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.7% were non-families. 28.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.41 and the average family size was 2.90.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 29.3% under the age of 18, 6.8% from 18 to 24, 28.7% from 25 to 44, 20.1% from 45 to 64, and 15.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 96.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.6 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $28,403, and the median income for a family was $31,250. Males had a median income of $27,159 versus $21,806 for females. The per capita income for the village was $13,594. About 9.0% of families and 10.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 13.6% of those under age 18 and 6.7% of those age 65 or over.

title: Elberta, Michigan


text:
Frankfort, Michigan

Frankfort is a city in the U.S. state of Michigan. Located within Benzie County, the city sits upon the shore of Lake Michigan at the mouth of the Betsie River. The city had a population of 1,252 at the 2020 census.

History
Father Jacques Marquette, one of the first Jesuit missionaries to the Great Lakes Indians, may have died and been buried in Frankfort in May 1675. Very limited and inexact records make the death site a matter of considerable debate among historians. Frankfort is one of two locations attributed as the death site by the natives since the earliest settlers arrived in northern Michigan and one of at least two sites claimed by historians. In any case within two years the remains were taken to the church at St. Ignace and given a traditional Indian burial.

The land which was to become the City of Frankfort was recognized at an early date for its economic and commercial potential because it was nearly all purchased by the contractors who surveyed the land for the United States—the Risdon family. The first known settler in Frankfort was Joseph Oliver who purchased the 14 acre between Lake Aux Becs Scies and Lake Michigan in 1852 and built a small cabin. Oliver was a woodsman who lived off the land: fishing, hunting, trapping and cutting timber. In 1855 a schooner owned by George W. Tifft of Cleveland was caught in a gale on Lake Michigan and driven before the wind. Imagine the surprise of Captain Snow when he found a previously little-known river outlet and harbor which provided a safe refuge. Thus, Aux Becs Scies Lake was discovered by an outside investor, George W. Tifft, who purchased most of the land around and adjoining the lake (more than a thousand acres (4 km2) all together). In 1859 a company from Detroit owned by Ransom Gardiner, George S. Frost, and others purchased the Tifft lands and commenced development of Frankfort within the year. In September, Louis A. Doby moved to the area as agent of the developers with John H. Adams to oversee the work. They sent along a sawmill and A.S. Dow to manage that phase of the development. Descendants of the Dow family—founders of the Dow Chemical Company—are unaware of any relationship to A.S. Dow. Doby held a contract to dredge a new channel so the harbor would be available for navigation by all types of craft. He also constructed a building for the firm which served as a hotel and store. The first lot in the development near the west end of Forest Avenue was sold to William H. Cogshall. He built a large home for his family, but his dwelling also served the fledgling community as a hotel and for religious and political meetings. The second lot, also at the west end of Forest Avenue, was purchased by Dr. Alonzo J. Slyfield, who served for 22 years as keeper of the Point Betsie Light House. Although the development had a promising start there was relatively little activity during the Civil War years. Virtually all of this early development took place in the area of First, Second, Third, Fourth, and Main Streets and Forest Avenue.

By 1867 the United States government recognized the importance of Aux Becs Scies harbor and commenced improvements. Doby's work from 1859 had completely disappeared and a channel was dredged at the south end of the strip of land dividing the two lakes. Shortly an enthusiastic newspaperman reported four to ten vessel arrivals a day and new settlers in droves. Stores were built and a large hotel, the Delbridge House, opened for business. A post office had been established in 1860 with Cogshall as postmaster but was eventually closed for want of business. This was reopened in 1867 with N.W. Nelson postmaster. Among the other early settlers were Jacob and Charles Voorhies, J.B. Delbridge, Dr. T. Harvey, and J.B. Collins who opened his drug store in 1869.

Although the harbor was opened in 1867, work on it continued for several years. By 1870 the channel was 200 ft wide and had a south pier of 600 ft while the north one measured 550 ft. A depth of about nine feet was maintained which allowed most of the vessels on the Great Lakes to enter the harbor. In 1873, the United States Lighthouse Service established the first pier head light to mark the entrance. In 1887 a United States Life Saving Station was established on the south side of the harbor. In 1934, as the United States Coast Guard, this station was moved to large new quarters on the Frankfort side of the channel. The original piers had been extended until they reached a length of 2000 ft in 1912. Between 1929 and 1932 the breakwaters were built to protect the harbor at a cost of over and the old piers were reduced in length. When Crystal Lake Township was organized in 1859, it included all of the present Benzie County. The first township meeting was held in the spring of 1860 at Frankfort in Doby's (the development company) store. The Benzie County government was organized by Public Act 385 of 1869 and local citizens set off in search of a county seat and a courthouse. After two elections, Frankfort was chosen and the Supervisors met in the community for the first time in April 1870. Although the first session was held in the Saterlee Hotel later sessions were held in a two-story commercial building on the corner of Second and Main Streets. However, in 1872 new elections were held and citizens of the county decided to move the county seat into the countryside east of Benzonia. Frankfort contested the move and managed to retain the seat of government, at least in name, until 1876. Following another election in 1894, the county seat returned to the community and a large school building was converted to a courthouse. Although the matter was frequently debated the county seat remained in Frankfort until 1908 when citizens voted to move it to an abandoned church in the Village of Honor.

In October 1873, the citizens of Frankfort unanimously petitioned the circuit court to become a village under a new act of the State Legislature. The petition was granted but the effort failed when the State Act was declared unconstitutional. In 1885 the citizens petitioned the State Legislature in the normal fashion and the incorporated village of Frankfort was established by Local Act No. 352 of 1885 on April 1 and by Local Act No. 352 of 1885 on May 14. (Legal boundaries of Frankfort are: Government Lots 2, 3, and 4 of Section 21; the Southeast Quarter of the Northeast Quarter of Section 21; the South Half of the North Half of Section 22; Government Lots 1, 2, 3, and 4 of Section 27; and the Northwest Fractional Quarter of Section 28 of Township No. 26 North of Range No. 16 West.)

Frankfort has enjoyed a steady growth over the years and by the 1930s had reached a population whereby they could become a city. Accordingly, voters of the village elected to become a city of the fifth class on March 11, 1935, with 229 votes in favor and 127 against. There was no change in the boundaries of the original village.

Geography

 * According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.59 sqmi, of which 1.39 sqmi is land and 0.20 sqmi is water.
 * Frankfort bills itself as the gateway to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
 * Frankfort is considered to be part of Northern Michigan.
 * The Point Betsie Light is in the area and has been in operation for 150 years. It is locally operated and maintained, and is undergoing a complete renovation.
 * The town is close to the Interlochen State Park, which is one of two remaining stands of virgin Eastern White Pine in the Lower Peninsula.

Climate
The Köppen Climate Classification subtype for this climate is "Dfb" (Warm Summer Continental Climate).

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,286 people, 601 households, and 328 families residing in the city. The population density was 925.2 PD/sqmi. There were 942 housing units at an average density of 677.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.3% White, 1.1% African American, 2.0% Native American, 1.1% Asian, 0.2% from other races, and 1.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino people of any race were 2.0% of the population.

There were 601 households, of which 18.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.8% were married couples living together, 10.0% had a female householder with no husband present, 2.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 45.4% were non-families. 41.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 23.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.98 and the average family size was 2.63.

The median age in the city was 54.6 years. 15.4% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 16.7% were from 25 to 44; 26.6% were from 45 to 64; and 36.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 44.8% male and 55.2% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,513 people, 665 households, and 395 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,084.4 PD/sqmi. There were 873 housing units at an average density of 625.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.84% White, 0.33% African American, 2.31% Native American, 0.26% Asian, 0.13% from other races, and 1.12% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino people of any race were 1.78% of the population.

There were 665 households, out of which 20.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.9% were married couples living together, 9.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 40.6% were non-families. 36.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 21.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.11 and the average family size was 2.71.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 17.9% under the age of 18, 6.3% from 18 to 24, 20.8% from 25 to 44, 23.7% from 45 to 64, and 31.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 49 years. For every 100 females, there were 78.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 76.2 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $33,821, and the median income for a family was $43,375. Males had a median income of $29,205 versus $21,389 for females. The per capita income for the city was $20,132. About 6.6% of families and 10.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 13.6% of those under age 18 and 9.1% of those age 65 or over.

Economy
The area is a tourism hotspot, providing a wide variety of recreational opportunities, both on and off the water. Local activities, attractions, and its location near rivers, lakes, and Lake Michigan, plus forests, make it a four-season destination. This claim is proudly advertised on the arch above the town's entrance, though some find the winters to be a difficult sell. It is highly recommended by a report in The New York Times as a starting point for bicycling, whether for a day trip or longer. Shopping and antiquing in the historic downtown are a significant portion of the economic base. Frankfort is close to the Interlochen Center for the Arts and Crystal Mountain (Michigan).

Infrastructure

 * runs primarily north–south through Frankfort, paralleling the shore of Lake Michigan throughout its length.
 * begins just east of Frankfort, and continues east to Beulah, Copemish, Mesick, Cadillac, and Clare. The highway can be used to access US Highway 31.

title: Frankfort, Michigan


text:
Gilmore Township, Benzie County, Michigan

Gilmore Township is a civil township of Benzie County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 813 at the 2020 census. The L-shaped township contains the village of Elberta and is bordered on the north by the city of Frankfort. The narrow township is located between Crystal Lake Township to the north and Blaine Township to the south, as well as a short boundary with Benzonia Township to the east.

History
Gilmore Township was organized in 1867.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 19.5 km2, of which 18.5 km2 is land and 1.0 km2, or 4.89%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 850 people, 341 households, and 236 families residing in the township. The population density was 117.2 PD/sqmi. There were 439 housing units at an average density of 60.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 97.06% White, 0.35% African American, 0.71% Native American, 0.35% from other races, and 1.53% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.94% of the population.

There were 341 households, out of which 32.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.4% were married couples living together, 10.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.5% were non-families. 26.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.49 and the average family size was 2.98.

In the township the population was spread out, with 27.8% under the age of 18, 6.8% from 18 to 24, 29.6% from 25 to 44, 21.2% from 45 to 64, and 14.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 101.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.7 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $29,712, and the median income for a family was $33,824. Males had a median income of $27,361 versus $21,591 for females. The per capita income for the township was $14,999. About 6.9% of families and 9.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 10.8% of those under age 18 and 5.9% of those age 65 or over.


text:
Homestead Township, Michigan

Homestead Township is a civil township of Benzie County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 2,329 at the 2020 census. The township is situated in the center of the county. The village of Honor is located within the township on U.S. Highway 31.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 78.4 km2, of which 78.2 sqkm is land and 0.3 sqkm, or 0.33%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,078 people, 790 households, and 594 families residing in the township. The population density was 68.7 PD/sqmi. There were 985 housing units at an average density of 32.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 94.47% White, 0.24% African American, 2.79% Native American, 0.10% Asian, 0.63% from other races, and 1.78% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.40% of the population.

There were 790 households, out of which 33.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.3% were married couples living together, 9.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.7% were non-families. 19.9% 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 2.63 and the average family size was 3.00.

In the township the population was spread out, with 26.2% under the age of 18, 7.0% from 18 to 24, 30.0% from 25 to 44, 25.5% from 45 to 64, and 11.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 99.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 96.9 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $35,833, and the median income for a family was $39,107. Males had a median income of $27,321 versus $20,657 for females. The per capita income for the township was $15,387. About 6.1% of families and 8.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 10.2% of those under age 18 and 4.7% of those age 65 or over.

title: Homestead Township, Michigan


text:
Honor, Michigan

Honor is a village in Benzie County of the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 337 at the 2020 census. The village is located within Homestead Township on U.S. Highway 31 along the Platte River.

The community has the name of Honor Griffin, the daughter of a first settler.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 0.56 sqmi, of which 0.54 sqmi is land and 0.02 sqmi is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 328 people, 135 households, and 87 families residing in the village. The population density was 607.4 PD/sqmi. There were 186 housing units at an average density of 344.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 93.0% White, 0.3% African American, 2.4% Native American, 0.3% Asian, and 4.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.4% of the population.

There were 135 households, of which 30.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.0% were married couples living together, 13.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 8.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 35.6% were non-families. 30.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.43 and the average family size was 2.99.

The median age in the village was 38 years. 26.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 22.3% were from 25 to 44; 22.6% were from 45 to 64; and 20.4% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 47.6% male and 52.4% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 299 people, 129 households, and 82 families residing in the village. The population density was 543.1 PD/sqmi. There were 153 housing units at an average density of 277.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 86.29% White, 6.02% Native American, 0.67% Asian, 3.01% from other races, and 4.01% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.34% of the population.

There were 129 households, out of which 27.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.7% were married couples living together, 10.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.4% were non-families. 29.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.32 and the average family size was 2.80.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 24.4% under the age of 18, 9.0% from 18 to 24, 26.4% from 25 to 44, 22.1% from 45 to 64, and 18.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 91.5 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $32,917, and the median income for a family was $40,833. Males had a median income of $22,273 versus $18,750 for females. The per capita income for the village was $14,274. About 4.1% of families and 11.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.0% of those under the age of eighteen and 3.9% of those 65 or over.

Arts and culture
Honor hosts the Coho Festival during the month of August in celebration of the area's most important fish, the coho salmon. Honor also has the only drive-in theater left in central Michigan; the Cherry Bowl Diner is located in Honor on U.S. 31.

title: Honor, Michigan


text:
Inland Township, Michigan

Inland Township is a civil township of Benzie County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 2,386 at the 2020 census. The township is located in the east of the county, and shares a border with Grand Traverse County. The Platte River flows through the north of the township.

History
The township was organized by the Grand Traverse County board of supervisors under the name "North Climax Township" in April 1867 when Benzie County was still attached to Grand Traverse for administrative purposes. The name was changed to "Inland" in 1869.

Communities

 * Bendon is an unincorporated community and census-designated place in the eastern part of the township at the junction of Cinder and Bendon roads at 44.63306°N, -85.83778°W The settlement developed around a sawmill and was first named "Kentville" after Albert Kent, a farmer who became the first postmaster on April 24, 1888. It was given a station on the now abandoned Chicago and West Michigan Railway. The post office was renamed Bendon on June 30, 1892, and operated until March 31, 1954.
 * Inland Corners is a locale and former post office in the eastern part of the township at the junction of Honor Highway (US 31) and Lake Ann Road/Bendon Road at 44.65917°N, -85.8375°W. The post office named Inland operated from February 17, 1866 until October 31, 1903.
 * Platte River is an unincorporated community in the west of the township, at 44.66167°N, -85.93389°W.
 * The village of Beulah is to the west in Benzonia Township, and the Beulah ZIP code 49617 also serves a portion of western Inland Township.
 * The community of Interlochen is to the east in Green Lake Township in Grand Traverse County, and the Interlochen ZIP 49643 also serves most of Inland Township.
 * The village of Lake Ann is to the north in Almira Township, and the Lake Ann ZIP code 49650 also serves a small area in northern Inland Township.
 * The village of Thompsonville is to the south in Colfax and Weldon townships, and the Thompsonville ZIP code 49683 also serves portions of southern Inland Township.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, Inland Township has a total area of 93.7 km2, of which 92.6 km2 is land and 1.1 km2, or 1.13%, is water.

Major highway

 * serves as the township's primary east–west thoroughfare, despite being signed north–south.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,587 people, 620 households, and 437 families residing in the township. The population density was 44.3 PD/sqmi. There were 723 housing units at an average density of 20.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 95.84% White, 0.50% African American, 1.64% Native American, 0.13% Asian, 0.25% from other races, and 1.64% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.01% of the population.

There were 620 households, out of which 34.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.7% were married couples living together, 8.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 29.5% were non-families. 21.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 4.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.56 and the average family size was 3.00.

In the township the population was spread out, with 26.4% under the age of 18, 7.6% from 18 to 24, 33.2% from 25 to 44, 23.3% from 45 to 64, and 9.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 106.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 104.6 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $38,125, and the median income for a family was $40,750. Males had a median income of $29,509 versus $21,284 for females. The per capita income for the township was $15,935. About 5.7% of families and 7.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 10.8% of those under age 18 and 6.1% of those age 65 or over.

title: Inland Township, Michigan


text:
Joyfield Township, Michigan

Joyfield Township is a civil township of Benzie County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 763 at the 2020 census. The township is located in the south central portion of the county. US 31 and M-115 converge at the northern edge of the township.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 51.7 km2, of which 51.6 sqkm is land and 0.2 sqkm, or 0.30%, is water.

Communities

 * Weldon is an unincorporated community located in the northeast of Joyfield Township, at 44.56611°N, -86.06306°W. The community was founded in 1863 by Arthur T. Case, who later was elected to the Michigan Legislature. Weldon was organized in 1868, and given a post office in 1879, lasting until 1903. The community is named after the adjacent township.

Major highways

 * follows a north–south path through the township.
 * largely follows a diagonal northwest–southeast path, through the northeast of the township. In the extreme north of the township, M-115 meets US 31, and the two highways continue concurrently north toward Benzonia.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 777 people, 286 households, and 217 families residing in the township. The population density was 38.8 PD/sqmi. There were 338 housing units at an average density of 16.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 94.08% White, 1.67% African American, 1.54% Native American, 0.13% Asian, 0.64% from other races, and 1.93% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.35% of the population.

There were 286 households, out of which 32.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 64.3% were married couples living together, 5.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.8% were non-families. 19.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.3% 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 2.96.

In the township the population was spread out, with 27.8% under the age of 18, 6.8% from 18 to 24, 27.5% from 25 to 44, 24.1% from 45 to 64, and 13.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 101.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 102.5 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $36,029, and the median income for a family was $38,472. Males had a median income of $26,477 versus $21,250 for females. The per capita income for the township was $14,692. About 5.8% of families and 9.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 11.7% of those under age 18 and 5.2% of those age 65 or over.

title: Joyfield Township, Michigan


text:
Lake Township, Benzie County, Michigan

Lake Township is a civil township of Benzie County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 694 at the 2020 census. The township is irregularly shaped, following the shore of Lake Michigan from Crystal Lake north to the border with Leelanau County. A portion of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is located in the northern end of the township.

Communities

 * Aral is a ghost town that was built at the mouth of Otter Creek on Lake Michigan in 1880. It was built around the Otter Creek Lumber Mill. It was named after Aral, Ireland, because "Otter Creek" was already the name of another place in Michigan. It had a post office from 1884 until 1900. It can be found at °N, °W.
 * Crystal Downs Country Club is a census-designated place in the west of the township.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 91.0 km2, of which 60.6 km2 is land and 30.4 km2, or 33.41%, is water.

Lake Township contains long shores on both Lake Michigan and Crystal Lake, making the township a popular vacation and tourism destination.

The mouth of the Platte River at Lake Michigan is located within the township. It can be found at °N, °W.

Major highway

 * runs primarily west–east through the township, paralleling the coast of Lake Michigan.

Demographics
As of the 2000 census, there were 635 people, 318 households and 227 families residing in the township. The population density was 26.8 PD/sqmi. There were 1,106 housing units at an average density of 46.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 98.43% White, 0.79% Native American, and 0.79% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.31% of the population.

There were 318 households, of which 10.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 68.9% were married couples living together, 1.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.6% were non-families. 24.8% 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 2.00 and the average family size was 2.32.

9.4% of the population were under the age of 18, 2.4% from 18 to 24, 12.9% from 25 to 44, 35.9% from 45 to 64, and 39.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 61 years. For every 100 females, there were 99.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.3 males.

The median household income was $46,979 and the median family income was $53,194. Males had a median income of $46,250 compared with $32,083 for females. The per capita income was $31,021. About 0.9% of families and 2.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including none of those under age 18 and 0.8% of those age 65 or over.

title: Lake Township, Benzie County, Michigan


text:
Lake Ann, Michigan

Lake Ann is a village in northeastern Benzie County in the U.S. state of Michigan. Part of Almira Township, Lake Ann is situated 10 mi west of Traverse City, and largely dependent upon that city. The population of Lake Ann was 273 at the 2020 census.

History
The first family to settle on Lake Ann was the family of Addison P. Wheelock, who name the lake after his wife.

Lake Ann was organized in 1893, and incorporated in 1914. It was once a station on the Manistee and North-Eastern Railroad, which has since been removed.

The Lake Ann Camp, a Christian summer camp, was established just west of Lake Ann in 1948.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 0.48 sqmi, of which 0.45 sqmi is land and 0.03 sqmi is water.

Lake Ann lies upon the northern shore of the lake of the same name. Lake Ann itself is a basin that lies along the Platte River, which flows west to Lake Michigan.

Lake Ann contains no state trunkline highways, although Benzie County signs County Roads 610 (Maple Street), 665 (Lake Ann Road), and 667 (Reynolds Road) through the village.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 268 people, 118 households, and 76 families residing in the village. The population density was 595.6 PD/sqmi. There were 174 housing units at an average density of 386.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 95.1% White, 0.4% African American, 1.5% Native American, 0.4% from other races, and 2.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.4% of the population.

There were 118 households, of which 22.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.3% were married couples living together, 4.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 0.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 35.6% were non-families. 30.5% 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 2.27 and the average family size was 2.80.

The median age in the village was 48.2 years. 16.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 18.7% were from 25 to 44; 38% were from 45 to 64; and 18.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 48.1% male and 51.9% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 276 people, 113 households, and 81 families residing in the village. The population density was 632.9 PD/sqmi. There were 174 housing units at an average density of 399.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 97.46% White, 0.72% Native American, 0.36% Asian, 0.36% from other races, and 1.09% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.81% of the population.

There were 113 households, out of which 24.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.2% were married couples living together, 9.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.3% were non-families. 22.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.44 and the average family size was 2.84.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 20.7% under the age of 18, 9.1% from 18 to 24, 26.8% from 25 to 44, 23.9% from 45 to 64, and 19.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 91.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 92.1 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $42,917, and the median income for a family was $46,944. Males had a median income of $31,563 versus $19,583 for females. The per capita income for the village was $17,387. None of the families and 4.8% of the population were living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and 8.0% of those over 64.

Education
The Lake Ann area is divided between the Benzie Central Schools and Traverse City Area Public Schools districts. The nearest public elementary school is Lake Ann Elementary School, part of the Benzie Central Schools district. However, the nearest public secondary school is Traverse City West Senior High School, which is part of the Traverse City Area Public Schools district.

Government
The village president of Lake Ann is Dan Hawkins. The village is, as of 2023, governed by Hawkins, treasurer Mandy Gray-Rineer, clerk Tammy Clous, and trustees Jess Bocian, Vince Edwards, Christi Grant-Wagner, and Joe Harrison.

title: Lake Ann, Michigan


text:
Platte Township, Michigan

Platte Township is a rural civil township of Benzie County in the U.S. state of Michigan. Its population was 343 at the 2020 census. It is located in the north central portion of the county.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, Platte Township has a total area of 94.5 km2, of which 94.0 km2 is land and 0.5 km2, or 0.50%, is water.

Major highway

 * runs north–south through the west of the township. However, it exits the township to the west. For its entire length, M-22 parallels the coast of Lake Michigan.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 342 people, 151 households, and 109 families residing in the township. The population density was 9.4 per square mile (3.6/km$2$). There were 242 housing units at an average density of 6.7 per square mile (2.6/km$2$). The racial makeup of the township was 97.08% White, 1.17% Native American, 0.29% from other races, and 1.46% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.17% of the population.

There were 151 households, out of which 23.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.9% were married couples living together, 6.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 27.8% were non-families. 24.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.26 and the average family size was 2.66.

In the township the population was spread out, with 20.5% under the age of 18, 3.8% from 18 to 24, 27.5% from 25 to 44, 34.2% from 45 to 64, and 14.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 44 years. For every 100 females, there were 111.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 119.4 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $36,979, and the median income for a family was $38,250. Males had a median income of $23,333 versus $18,333 for females. The per capita income for the township was $18,499. About 5.5% of families and 6.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 10.7% of those under age 18 and none of those age 65 or over.

title: Platte Township, Michigan


text:
Thompsonville, Michigan

Thompsonville is a village in Benzie County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The village had a population of 451 at the 2020 census, up from 441 at the 2010 census. The village lies immediately north of the Manistee County line, and is divided between Colfax and Weldon townships.

Crystal Mountain, one of Michigan's largest ski resorts, is located just west of Thompsonville.

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

Origin
Thompsonville was established when construction of the lines of two railroads, the Chicago & West Michigan and the Frankfort & South Eastern, crossed here in 1889. The village, originally called Lyndonville, was platted on July 23, 1890, and was named for Sumner S. Thompson,(4/12/1823-10/24/1889), who was the President of the Frankfort and South Eastern Railroad at the time of his death. Of the two railroads serving the village, the Chicago & West Michigan was merged into the Pere Marquette Railway in 1900 and the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway in 1947, while the Frankfort & South Eastern was acquired in 1892 by the Toledo, Ann Arbor & North Michigan, which in turn was reorganized in 1895 as the Ann Arbor Railroad.

Points of interest

 * Thompsonville is best known for the ski resort located there, Crystal Mountain.
 * The junction between the two railroadsAA Railroad and C&O Railway is known locally as the "Diamond Crossing". In 1982, C&O Railway made its last train through Thompsonville before the closure. 9 Years later in 1991, Tuscola and Saginaw Bay Railway train was the last train through Thompsonville. When the railbeds were razed, the "Diamond Crossing" was saved from the dismantling of the railroad tracks and moved. It can be seen with Caboose on tracks adjacent to the George W. Sharp Park.
 * A Michigan Historical Commission Historical Marker #2335 was registered in the fall of 2020 and is situated near the site of the Diamond Crossing.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 441 people, 183 households, and 112 families living in the village. The population density was 441.0 PD/sqmi. There were 245 housing units at an average density of 245.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 94.8% White, 0.2% African American, 2.5% Native American, 0.2% Asian, 0.2% from other races, and 2.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.4% of the population.

There were 183 households, of which 28.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 37.2% were married couples living together, 16.4% had a female householder with no husband present, 7.7% had a male householder with no wife present, and 38.8% were non-families. 30.6% 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 2.41 and the average family size was 2.99.

The median age in the village was 38.5 years. 23.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 9.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 28.1% were from 25 to 44; 24% were from 45 to 64; and 15.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 49.9% male and 50.1% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 457 people, 180 households, and 120 families living in the village. The population density was 454.5 PD/sqmi. There were 221 housing units at an average density of 219.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 96.06% White, 2.41% Native American, 0.22% Asian, 1.09% from other races, and 0.22% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.22% of the population.

There were 180 households, out of which 34.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.2% were married couples living together, 13.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 33.3% were non-families. 28.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.54 and the average family size was 3.12.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 28.4% under the age of 18, 8.3% from 18 to 24, 27.6% from 25 to 44, 21.4% from 45 to 64, and 14.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 101.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 99.4 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $29,125, and the median income for a family was $31,103. Males had a median income of $22,500 versus $18,250 for females. The per capita income for the village was $12,104. About 12.8% of families and 13.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 24.3% of those under age 18 and 7.1% of those age 65 or over.

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

title: Thompsonville, Michigan


text:
Weldon Township, Michigan

Weldon Township is a civil township of Benzie County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 579 at the 2020 census. The township is in the south central portion of the county. One half of the village of Thompsonville is located in the township, as well as the entire census-designated place of Crystal Mountain, containing the Crystal Mountain Resort, is in the southern part of the township.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 94.9 km2, of which 94.4 km2 is land and 0.5 km2, or 0.55%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 530 people, 217 households, and 149 families residing in the township. The population density was 14.5 per square mile (5.6/km$2$). There were 483 housing units at an average density of 13.2 per square mile (5.1/km$2$). The racial makeup of the township was 95.85% White, 2.45% Native American, 1.13% from other races, and 0.57% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.70% of the population.

There were 217 households, out of which 25.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.9% were married couples living together, 10.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.9% were non-families. 24.9% 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 2.44 and the average family size was 2.87.

In the township the population was spread out, with 22.5% under the age of 18, 7.9% from 18 to 24, 24.5% from 25 to 44, 28.3% from 45 to 64, and 16.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.7 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $33,125, and the median income for a family was $37,917. Males had a median income of $29,688 versus $21,339 for females. The per capita income for the township was $17,725. About 8.9% of families and 12.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 25.2% of those under age 18 and 8.1% of those age 65 or over.

title: Weldon Township, Michigan


text:
Bainbridge Township, Michigan

Bainbridge Township is a civil township of Berrien County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the township population was 2,682. It was organized in 1837. The name is a transfer from Bainbridge, New York.

Communities
Unincorporated communities located within the township include Spinks Corners and Millburg.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 91.6 km2, of which 90.4 km2 is land and 1.2 km2, or 1.27%, is water.

The township is in the northeast portion of the county, with Benton Charter Township to the west, Hagar Township to the northwest, and Coloma Charter Township and Watervliet Charter Township to the north. East of the township is Keeler Township in Van Buren County. Pipestone Township is to the south, and Sodus Township to the southwest.

M-140 passes north and south through the township, and Interstate 94 nips the northwest corner of the township.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 3,132 people, 1,142 households, and 832 families residing in the township. The population density was 89.1 PD/sqmi. There were 1,295 housing units at an average density of 36.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 95.47% White, 0.57% African American, 0.67% Native American, 0.10% Asian, 0.10% Pacific Islander, 1.92% from other races, and 1.18% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 12.90% of the population.

There were 1,142 households, out of which 26.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 62.2% were married couples living together, 7.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 27.1% were non-families. 22.6% 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 2.56 and the average family size was 2.96.

In the township the population was spread out, with 24.4% under the age of 18, 7.5% from 18 to 24, 26.9% from 25 to 44, 27.6% from 45 to 64, and 13.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 105.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 105.6 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $38,750, and the median income for a family was $46,250. Males had a median income of $32,991 versus $26,290 for females. The per capita income for the township was $17,854. About 7.4% of families and 12.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 16.9% of those under age 18 and 8.1% of those age 65 or over.

title: Bainbridge Township, Michigan


text:
Bedum

Bedum (Beem ) is a former municipality and a town in the northeastern Netherlands. Populated by 0 inhabitants in, Bedum is one of the larger of Groningen's several satellite towns. On 1 January 2019 it merged with the municipalities of De Marne, Eemsmond and Winsum to form the new municipality Het Hogeland.

Bedum is the site of three supermarkets, several pubs, and a leaning church tower, dubbed "the leaning tower of Bedum". Footballer Arjen Robben was born in Bedum (23 January 1984).

Bedum has a railway station - Bedum railway station.

The leaning tower
Bedum's 36-metre tower of the St Walfridus church has been calculated as now leaning at a greater angle than the Leaning Tower of Pisa. If both towers were the same height, Bedum's would have a greater displacement by 6 cm.

Former population centres

 * Bedum
 * Noordwolde
 * Onderdendam
 * Zuidwolde
 * Ellerhuizen
 * Westerdijkshorn

Notable people

 * Arjen Robben, professional footballer

title: Bedum


text:
Baroda, Michigan

Baroda is a village in Berrien County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 875 at the 2020 census. The village is within Baroda Township.

History
The first European American settlers started to arrive in the 1830s and began clearing the land, draining the swamps, and building homes and farms. Michael Houser is considered the founder of Baroda, bargaining with the Indiana and Lake Michigan Railway Company to establish a station on his land. Houser platted the village ca. 1890. Houser named the community after Baroda in Gujarat, India. The village incorporated in 1907. The Baroda Post Office opened on January 1, 1891.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 0.72 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 873 people, 381 households, and 229 families residing in the village. The population density was 1212.5 PD/sqmi. There were 407 housing units at an average density of 565.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 95.6% White, 0.5% African American, 0.5% Native American, 0.1% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 1.1% from other races, and 2.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.5% of the population.

There were 381 households, of which 30.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.6% were married couples living together, 13.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 2.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 39.9% were non-families. 33.1% 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 2.29 and the average family size was 2.90.

The median age in the village was 37.8 years. 24.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 26.8% were from 25 to 44; 26.7% were from 45 to 64; and 14% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 48.8% male and 51.2% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 858 people, 362 households, and 232 families residing in the village. The population density was 1,343.2 PD/sqmi. There were 378 housing units at an average density of 591.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 96.74% White, 0.47% African American, 0.35% Native American, 0.58% Asian, 0.35% from other races, and 1.52% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.93% of the population.

There were 362 households, out of which 33.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.7% were married couples living together, 9.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.9% were non-families. 29.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.35 and the average family size was 2.92.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 25.3% under the age of 18, 5.7% from 18 to 24, 34.6% from 25 to 44, 19.1% from 45 to 64, and 15.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 98.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.8 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $36,250, and the median income for a family was $41,979. Males had a median income of $32,411 versus $24,107 for females. The per capita income for the village was $16,412. About 6.0% of families and 7.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8.1% of those under age 18 and 10.7% of those age 65 or over.

title: Baroda, Michigan


text:
Baroda Township, Michigan

Baroda Township is a civil township of Berrien County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the township population was 2,835.

Communities
The village of Baroda is the principal population center in the township. Tensions between the communities of Baroda and Bridgman led to Baroda Township being split off from Lake Township in 1923.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 46.2 km2, of which 46.0 km2 is land and 0.2 km2, or 0.36%, is water.

The township is in the central portion of the county, with Lake Charter Township and Bridgman to the west, Lincoln Charter Township and Stevensville to the north and northwest, Royalton Township to the northeast, Oronoko Charter Township and Berrien Springs to the east, Buchanan Township to the southeast, and Weesaw Township to the south and southwest.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,880 people, 1,117 households, and 815 families residing in the township. The population density was 161.8 PD/sqmi. There were 1,172 housing units at an average density of 65.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 96.42% White, 0.24% African American, 0.24% Native American, 0.35% Asian, 0.07% Pacific Islander, 2.01% from other races, and 0.66% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.57% of the population.

There were 1,117 households, out of which 34.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.2% were married couples living together, 8.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 27.0% were non-families. 22.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.54 and the average family size was 2.99.

In the township the population was spread out, with 26.5% under the age of 18, 6.2% from 18 to 24, 30.6% from 25 to 44, 23.6% from 45 to 64, and 13.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.5 males.

The median income for a household in the township was $44,219, and the median income for a family was $47,161. Males had a median income of $35,350 versus $25,571 for females. The per capita income for the township was $21,837. About 2.2% of families and 4.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 4.5% of those under age 18 and 7.4% of those age 65 or over.

title: Baroda Township, Michigan


text:
Benton Charter Township, Michigan

Benton Charter Township is a charter township of Berrien County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the population was 14,374.

Communities

 * Benton Heights is an unincorporated community and census-designated place in the west-center of the township, adjacent to Benton Harbor.
 * Fair Plain is an unincorporated community and census-designated place in the southwest part of the township, extending west into St. Joseph Charter Township.
 * Millburg is an unincorporated community and a census-designated place in the eastern part of the township near the boundary with Bainbridge Township.

History
The township was established on March 11, 1837, and was named after Thomas Hart Benton, U.S. senator from Missouri. It remained attached to St. Joseph Township for administrative purposes until 1841.

The commune of the House of David was located in the township.

In 1967, the Benton Harbor Fruit Market, established in 1860 in Benton Harbor, moved to the township. The Benton Harbor city limits have since then extended to include the market.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 85.0 km2, of which 83.8 km2 is land and 1.2 km2, or 1.36%, is water.

The township is in the northwest portion of the county, with Lake Michigan to the west in the north of the township and Benton Harbor to the west in the south of the township. St. Joseph and St. Joseph Charter Township lie to the southwest. Hagar Township is to the north, Coloma Charter Township to the northeast, Bainbridge Township is to the east, Pipestone Township is to the southeast, and Sodus Township and Royalton Township are to the south.

I-94 traverses the township diagonally from northeast to southwest. The southern terminus of I-196 is at the junction with I-94. US 31 follows parts of I-196, I-94, Napier Avenue, and all of the completed portion of the St. Joseph Valley Parkway within the township. M-139 lies in the southwest of the township and runs from I-94 to a junction with Business Loop I-94 just east of Benton Harbor (the southbound direction begins on the Benton Harbor–Benton Township border).

2000 Census
At the 2000 census, there were 16,404 people, 6,485 households and 4,221 families residing in the township. The population density was 503.6 PD/sqmi. There were 7,082 housing units at an average density of 217.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the township was 44.11% White, 51.86% African American, 0.37% Native American, 0.36% Asian, 0.01% Pacific Islander, 1.48% from other races, and 1.82% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.14% of the population.

There were 6,485 households, of which 32.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 35.9% were married couples living together, 24.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.9% were non-families. 29.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.49 and the average family size was 3.05.

Age distribution was 30.0% under the age of 18, 8.9% from 18 to 24, 26.8% from 25 to 44, 20.8% from 45 to 64, and 13.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 33 years. For every 100 females, there were 88.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 81.8 males.

The median household income was $25,942, and the median family income was $30,899. Males had a median income of $31,563 versus $20,484 for females. The per capita income for the township was $14,137. About 22.5% of families and 27.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 42.3% of those under age 18 and 16.6% of those age 65 or over.

Economy
Whirlpool Corporation has its headquarters in the township. Whirlpool employs a total of 2,058 employees in the metropolitan area.

Education
Benton Charter Township is served by the Benton Harbor Public Library located within the Benton Harbor city limits.

Sports and recreation
Point O'Woods Golf & Country Club is located in the township, just northwest of Millburg.

Sarett Nature Center, a 300 acre wildlife sanctuary which offers trails, an interpretative building, and classes, is located in the northern portion of the township. It is named for Lew R. Sarett, father of Lewis Hastings Sarett.

title: Benton Charter Township, Michigan